Lotus Family Development Center

In many cultures around the world, the lotus is a symbol of rebirth and overcoming one's surroundings. The flower's most significant characteristic is its ability to overcome its less than ideal environment - murky, muddy waters - to become something beautiful. The concept of renewal and success despite barriers and obstacles is central to the mission of the Lotus Family Development Center.

The idea for the Lotus FDC blossomed from a desire to establish a nurturing, community-integrated resource for the families and residents of Greater Birmingham's underserved neighborhoods - a resource focusing on three distinct but interconnected factors that greatly impact the overall welfare of these communities - Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Social Support.

The Lotus Family Development Center model centers on a holistic perspective of what makes - and keeps - a community healthy:

• Urban communities are often at risk for experiencing food insecurity. Grocery stores can be miles away and reliable transportation is often hard to access. The Urban Gourmet program will offer home gardening, healthy cooking, and other related classes to the community.  
• Members of underserved communities are at increased risk for obesity and chronic diseases, such as diabetes. A number of factors - such as access to healthy foods, quality healthcare, and safe recreational spaces - impact the health of a community. The #TeamFit program will offer fun, effective fitness activities for all ages.  
• Families come in all shapes and sizes, and form the foundation of every community. Strong families are essential to building a strong community. The Lotus Family Support program will offer families a variety of support services such as parenting classes, conflict mediation, and mentoring. 
• Unique seminars providing resources and information on topics that round out the holistic Lotus vision - including chronic disease management, personal finance, civic engagement, and community organizing.

The Lotus Family Development Center aims to foster organic behavior change in community members who participate in its programs and activities. By helping to change the way in which they approach nutrition, physical activity, and interacting with their family and neighbors, the Lotus FDC hopes to provide these community members with the knowledge and resources they need to improve quality of life for them, their families, and their communities.