December 16, 2021
Hobson City welcomed the Equitable Neighborhoods Initiative (ENI) on December 16, 2021. The community of 759 residents in Calhoun County is one of fifteen across the state participating in ENI. The program equips communities to address the pandemic-related issues of today while building capacity to deal with the health and quality of life challenges of tomorrow.
The Hobson City Hall hosted the lively ENI kickoff celebration. Several local leaders, citizens, and ENI representatives gathered for the event. The kickoff featured welcome remarks, a motivational message, and refreshments.
Mayor McCrory opened the event by welcoming folks to Alabama’s first incorporated African-American community. She expressed enthusiasm for ENI. And for Hobson City’s longstanding partnership with the University of Alabama. “We’re trying to build a strong community. We want to do more than talk; we want to be able to find solutions. We believe ENI will help us do that and move the needle on health disparities.”
Hobson City residents will join ENI’s Hobson City Advisory Group and Youth Community Council. Together, the groups will work to improve health outcomes for their town. Among other projects, they will draft a health equity plan. They will also create a “healing zone” in the community. “Healing zones” are natural and recreation spaces for improving physical and mental health.
“We are so excited to have Hobson City as part of this initiative.” Said ENI Project Leader Dr. Arturo Menefee, echoing Mayor McCrory’s enthusiasm. “Hobson City has a rich history and core group of leaders. We look forward to working with Hobson City to accomplish their community’s goals.”
Dr. Earl Suttle of Leadership Success International fired up Hobson City residents in attendance. His motivational message encouraged Hobson City residents to “master stress for better success.” His remarks aimed to empower residents to strengthen their physical and mental health.
Connect with us to learn more about what Hobson City residents of all ages achieve through ENI. Follow along on the ENI blog and social media pages to learn more. We can’t wait to learn alongside this wonderful community!
If you’re interested in connecting with ENI, email Dr. Arturo Menefee at asmenefee@ua.edu.