The University of Arkansas at Little Rock Children International facility is set to undergo renovations this spring.

Certified as the only Children International site in the country, the nonprofit organization received $400,000 from Children International to help enhance the appearance of the location.

Located on Fair Park Boulevard for more than 23 years, members of the UA Little Rock Children International community are excited to witness the long-awaited changes.

“The timing is perfect,” said director Ryan Davis. “Before, all that mattered was that we were able to store whatever benefits that we were going to give out but now, it’s important that we have workable space for us to do the things that they’ve mandated us to do.”

UALR Children International serves 3,000 children and youth. With such high volumes of participation, programs are usually done in other locations. Without a permanent space, the organization remains in a state of instability.

“People don’t really identify this place as a program space,” Davis said. “We need a space that people can have a visceral connection to.”

Before Davis became the director of UA Little Rock Children International, the youth gathered together in efforts to raise money for more space. Although they raised a significant amount, it was not enough for the space that they’d envisioned.

“We promised the youth that there would be a space for them to enjoy as their own, and we’re glad to be able to deliver that promise to them,” Davis said.

Due to most of the funds being used for the main building, UA Little Rock Children International staff will work to redesign the two adjacent buildings along with the playground.   

The upcoming renovations will include removing a wall, new floors, new furniture, fresh paint and wifi. The remodeling is scheduled to conclude before or after spring break in March.

For more information, contact Ryan Davis at rddavis1@ualr.edu.