2024 Showcase of the Equitable Development Data Insight Training
On December 12, 2024, Rob Kowalski, Director of the Neighborhood Services Department; Rachel Joy, Director of the Equity and Engagement Department; and Mikal Washington, Community Relations Specialist, participated in the 2024 Showcase of the Equitable Development Data Insight Training (EDDIT). During the event, City staff had the opportunity to present alongside other 2024 cohorts, including […]
City Staff Engage with Students at Booker T. Washington
On December 6, 2024, staff members from various City departments— including Neighborhood Services, Finance, Equity and Engagement, Police, Fire, Public Works, and Internet Technologies—furthered their engagement efforts by visiting Booker T. Washington Elementary School to read to students. This initiative focuses on promoting a positive outlook on reading and continued education while fostering meaningful relationships […]
Bristol Place Senior Residences Groundbreaking Ceremony
On December 2, 2024, Neighborhood Services partnered with Bristol Place Residences developer AHDVS, LLC to host a groundbreaking ceremony for the Bristol Place Senior Residences. Due to the cold weather, the groundbreaking ceremony was held indoors at the John Lee Johnson Clubhouse. Site prep is already underway for the 60-unit affordable housing complex for seniors […]
Community Canvassing
On Tuesday, November 19, 2024, the Equity and Engagement and Neighborhood Services Department conducted a canvasing surrounding the 2000 block of Cynthia Dr. The goal of canvassing is to foster connections with community members, particularly those who may have been affected by recent acts of violence. By establishing personal relationships, staff can gain a deeper […]
Neighborhood Canvassing Building Trust
On November 15,2024, staff from the Equity and Engagement and Neighborhood Services Departments conducted a neighborhood canvass in the area surrounding the 300 Block of Nelson Court. The neighborhood canvass was a proactive step to engage directly with those who may have been impacted by gun violence in the area. By distributing flyers and initiating […]
Continuum of Service Providers to the Homeless Summit at the Library
On November 12, 2024, the Continuum of Service Providers to the Homeless (CSPH) and the Community Coalition hosted the Summit on Homelessness at the Champaign Public Library. Local service providers, City and County staff, neighborhood group leaders, and individuals with lived experience of homelessness were among the 95 people in attendance. The summit included a […]
Upcoming Summit on Homelessness Seeks to Find Ways of Improving Care for Unhoused Individuals in Champaign County
The Champaign County Continuum of Service Providers to the Homeless (CSPH) and the Community Coalition are convening the “Summit on Homelessness: A Community Conversation” on Tuesday, November 12, 2024. The Summit will run from 9am to 3pm at the Champaign Public Library (200 W. Green Street, Robeson Room A&B) and features a keynote address at […]
Neighborhood Services and Champaign Police Attend HACC Job and Resource Fair
The Housing Authority of Champaign County recently held a Job and Resource Fair, an event designed to support SHIFT program participants and others seeking career opportunities and access to valuable community resources. The fair served as a platform for connecting local job seekers with employment prospects and offering information on various community services. Neighborhood Programs […]
Several Groups Host Halloween Events
Multiple neighborhood groups chose to host their own Halloween events leading up to the big day! On Friday, October 25, 2024, Countrybrook Cares hosted a trunk or treat event. On Saturday, October 26, 2024, the Ashland Park HOA hosted a neighborhood trunk or treat event. On Thursday, October 31, 2024, Liberty on the Lake hosted […]
Black Mental Health and Wellness Conference
On October 26, 2024 the Champaign County Community Coalition’s Race Relations Subcommittee proudly hosted the 2nd Annual Black Mental Health and Wellness Conference at Parkland College, running from 8 AM to 4 PM. This impactful event focused on the unique challenges surrounding mental health in the Black community, offering support and resources for individuals and […]