Parks Director Summer Chambers was at the conference in Jonesboro to accept the award, and she said it was exciting to receive the honor. “I’m extremely proud, especially since this was my first major project to be a part of since I’ve been in Hope,” Chambers said. “This was also my first experience with writing a grant, and I couldn’t have done it without Catherine Cook. I’m so grateful for all that she has taught me.” 

Cook and Chambers began the process in 2021, and the work paid off when the City of Hope was awarded a matching grant from the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism, and the work on the park could begin. The area was cleaned of debris from the old buildings; then the pergola, wooden benches, brickwork, lights, and iron railing were installed, followed by the grass and sprinkler system. 

Chambers said she and the city were also thankful to the Hope Downtown Network (HDN) for adding their contributions to the park. Last year, HDN held a fundraiser, A Taste of Hope, where they let the participants vote on which downtown project would receive the proceeds. The Pocket Park won the vote, and the organization contributed the colorful planters, picnic tables, and mural one can see in the park today. The Hope Rotary Club donated the xylophone. 

So it was a merry gathering yesterday as representatives from various community organizations gathered for the photo op to celebrate the honor. Chambers' description of the completion of the park would also seem an apt depiction of the entire project as it represents the fellowship of the local community working together for a common goal. “It’s a great step to moving forward.”