Little Rock Regional Chamber launches initiative to attract new residents

The Little Rock Regional Chamber launched a program to bring prospective residents to Little Rock and keep current ones. It provides tools to highlight local opportunities. Central Arkansas employers also gain tools to help fill vacant positions.

Jack Thomas serves as the senior vice president of economic development for the organization. Thomas explained the purpose behind the rollout.

“This is meant to give new residents a full-scale toolkit of all the opportunities that they have from a quality of life standpoint here in Central Arkansas,” Thomas said. “We have to act on this and give the employers a resource to bring people in to fill the jobs that they have and then promote Little Rock and all of Central Arkansas as a place that’s desirable to live.”

The digital platform includes several resources for people exploring the area. Users can access a cost-of-living calculator alongside positive news stories. It also connects users directly with local volunteers.

Thomas explained the specific goal of a Community Connector. He stated the purpose is:

“To match [prospective residents] with their interests and somebody who lives here to further acclimate them into the market,” Thomas said.

Summer Khairi serves as one of the community liaisons. She spoke about her investment in the local community.

“If I could shout to the rooftops, I really do love Little Rock,” Khairi said. “If you have your friends, your activities, your clubs and committees and all of those things, you’ll feel more invested to stay in Little Rock.”

Regional chambers of commerce support local economic growth. These groups create programs to help businesses recruit talent. They also promote local communities to outside workers.

Residents can join the liaison group by contacting the regional chamber. Details are online at LifeInLittleRock.com.