Immerse Arkansas

Contact Information

Lowell, Little Rock, Conway

5014049890

Organization Information

What is the organization's mission statement?

At Immerse, we’re building a broad, reliable pathway to healing by surrounding youth from crisis with unconditional relationships, tools that anticipate their needs and dreams, and a vision for their restored future.

Tell us about your organization (how did it start, how is it run)?

Immerse Arkansas began with a simple but life-changing realization.

Our founder and CEO, Eric Gilmore, and his wife, Kara, were foster parents to older youth. When one of the young women in their care turned 18, she aged out of foster care with a trash bag holding her belongings, one night's worth of bipolar medication and a Greyhound bus ticket. That was her transition into adulthood.

Eric and Kara knew young people deserved better.

Founded in 2010, Immerse Arkansas now serves more than 500 youth and young adults ages 14 to 24, along with their families, each year. We walk alongside young people who are in and around foster care and adoptive systems, as well as those experiencing homelessness, recovering from trafficking or fleeing unsafe situations. Through relationship-based coaching, trauma-informed therapy, safe housing and practical support, we help young people heal, build stability and gain the tools they need to thrive in adulthood.

Today, Immerse operates its flagship Little Rock campus, home to The Station—Arkansas' first homeless shelter designed specifically for young adults ages 18 to 24—and Immerse Conway, which launched in 2023. In 2026, Immerse expanded into Northwest Arkansas to meet the growing need for housing and support for young adults in the region.

What services does the organization provide?

At Immerse, we believe healing happens through consistent relationships, practical support and a community that refuses to give up on young people.

Our LifeBASE programs serve teens ages 14–18, young adults ages 18–24 and single mothers with children through LifeBASE Care. Every participant is surrounded by a team that includes a dedicated coach, trauma-informed therapist and, when needed, safe housing. Together, they create a personalized plan that equips each young person with the tools, resources and relationships they need to move toward independence and long-term stability.

In Little Rock, The OC (Overcomers Central) serves as a welcoming drop-in center for young adults experiencing homelessness or crisis. Youth can receive two free hot meals each day, take a shower, do laundry and connect immediately with a coach, therapist or employment coach for support and next steps.

Immerse is also home to The Station, Arkansas' first shelter designed specifically for young adults ages 18–24. More than a place to sleep, The Station provides safe housing alongside relationship-based coaching, trauma-informed therapy and wraparound support that helps young adults heal, build life skills and create a foundation for their future.

How can people get involved (volunteer opportunities)?

With ways to get involved here is the link!
https://immersearkansas.org/volunteering