Grant Writing and Utilizing AI
On December 11, 2023 staff from the Equity and Engagement Department attended an all day workshop hosted by the U of I School of Social Work. Inspired by community partner feedback, the event focused on grant-writing and include a portion on utilizing AI for productivity and grant-writing. More than 50 people were in attendance for […]
Citizenship Fast Track Program
On December 9, 2023, staff from the Equity and Engagement Department assisted the New American Welcome Center (NAWC) in the final steps of their first Citizenship Fast-Track program. This intensive 10-day program was designed for community member seeking citizenship who were confident in their English skills. Through this program they learned about American history and […]
Martin Luther King Jr. Countywide Celebration
The Martin Luther King Jr. Countywide Celebration is set to be hosted January 14, 2024 at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts at 5:00 PM. This event honors the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., while acknowledging organizations and individuals upholding his ideals and principles to better serve our community. The […]
Healing Invisible Wounds Conference
On December 2, 2023, Equity and Engagement manager, Tracy Parsons, attended the Healing Invisible Wounds Conference hosted by Stop The Violence program. This organization serves veterans and their families with a specific focus on the effects of PTSD on veterans and trauma informed care. This conference was designed to shed light on trauma’s affects on […]
Welcoming New American Citizens
On November 30, 2023, staff from the Equity and Engagement Department attended the Naturalization Ceremony at Parkland College Theatre. The event was hosted by the Honorable Eric I. Long, United States Magistrate Judge, Central District of Illinois, Urbana. There were 113 community members, from 36 countries, that Naturalized to become United States citizens. The process […]
8th annual Turkey Giveaway
On November 22, 2023, staff from the Equity and Engagement Department participated in the 8th annual Turkey Giveaway, hosted by A Plus & Dixon Stars. Staff helped distribute 500 turkeys to individuals and families in need for the Thanksgiving Holiday.
Neighborhood Services Advisory Board Open House
On November 9, 2023 the Neighborhood Services Advisory Board hosted an open house. This occasion served as the board’s annual public social event and was an opportunity for the City’s registered neighborhood group leaders, board and commission members, and residents to meet the current Neighborhood Service Advisory Board members, elected officials, and City staff. Approximately […]
City Celebrates Staff for Service and Values
The annual Employee Awards and Service Recognition Ceremony was held on November 15, 2023. This event celebrates the accomplishments and service of City of Champaign staff honored with either an employee award or for achieving a career milestone. This year’s celebration honored 83 employees who received an individual or team award. These staff members were […]
City of Champaign Again Earns Perfect Score on Municipal Equality Index for Inclusive LGBTQ+ Laws, Policies and Services
On November 14, 2023, the City of Champaign is proud to announce that it once again earned the highest possible score on the Human Rights Campaign’s 2023 Municipal Equality Index. This is the twelfth consecutive year that the Human Rights Campaign Foundation has recognized the City for its inclusive LGBTQ+ laws, policies, and services as […]
Call for Nominations for the 2024 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Countywide Celebration
The 23rd Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Countywide Celebration will be held in January 2024. This community event celebrates the legacy of Dr. King and provides an opportunity to highlight community members or local organizations for their outstanding work and positive impact in Champaign County. Organizers of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, […]