Our Community
The City of Surprise is the 6th fastest growing city/town in Arizona with a population of over 102,000, and 72 square miles worth of land. Surprise is about 20 miles northwest of Phoenix, Arizona. The city turns 50 years old in 2010.
The Original Square Mile, is Surprise’s honored historic site, where the town’s oldest and original residences and businesses are all located. The original square mile is comprised of a large Hispanic population (youth and senior) based within the city. In the last couple of years, new businesses and organizations have been part of the revitalization of the area. Rio Salado Life Long Learning, Interfaith Community Care Campus, CSA Housing, along with various housing and commercial developments have also given new energy to this historic site.
Our People:
Over 25% of our population is either African American or Latino. 75% are Caucasian. Since the year 2000 the population has tripled. The people in our community are engaged and connected to one another; always willing to give a helping hand.
Over 25% of our population is either African American or Latino. 75% are Caucasian. Since the year 2000 the population has tripled. The people in our community are engaged and connected to one another; always willing to give a helping hand.
Our Strengths:
The strengths and assets of Surprise lay in our people. We are a vibrant and active community with many recreation activities and a focus on connectivity. Another strength is the active involvement of our city government in our local community work.
The strengths and assets of Surprise lay in our people. We are a vibrant and active community with many recreation activities and a focus on connectivity. Another strength is the active involvement of our city government in our local community work.
Our Challenges:
Our main challenges are transportation and job creation. One of our foodbanks recently has had overwhelming need from residents and not enough donations and so has unfortunately "gone dry." As a result there are increased challenges related to food security and basic needs.
Our main challenges are transportation and job creation. One of our foodbanks recently has had overwhelming need from residents and not enough donations and so has unfortunately "gone dry." As a result there are increased challenges related to food security and basic needs.
Our Communities for All Ages:
In early 2009, the Surprise Communities for All Ages team, a cross sector, intergenerational coalition of community residents, local institutions, community groups and policy makers came together to leverage community strengths and address common concerns. Based on the information that we gathered during the assessment phase we have begun implementing a range of strategies to help increase physical and digital connectivity and community pride as well contribute to reducing hunger for residents of all ages within the original square mile.
In early 2009, the Surprise Communities for All Ages team, a cross sector, intergenerational coalition of community residents, local institutions, community groups and policy makers came together to leverage community strengths and address common concerns. Based on the information that we gathered during the assessment phase we have begun implementing a range of strategies to help increase physical and digital connectivity and community pride as well contribute to reducing hunger for residents of all ages within the original square mile.
