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 […]
Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce Convention and the Outstanding City for Procurement Award
On August 7, 2024, Mikal Washington from the Equity and Engagement Department and Adonis Fuller from the Finance Department attended the Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce Convention in Peoria, IL. City staff participated in a matchmaking session, where they discussed the benefits of joining the Champaign Diversity Advancement Program (CDAP), the process for becoming a […]
New Champaign City Profiles Features April Faulkner
In the latest episode of Champaign City Profiles, Station Manager Brian Paris talks with April Faulkner, a Community Relations Specialist in the Equity and Engagement Department. In the podcast, April provides some examples of what her department does and how her role is to help drive the department’s important work forward. One project that she […]
Neighborhood Services Hosts Game Night
On August 3, 2023, Neighborhood Services hosted a game night at Providence at Thornberry. Typically held in neighborhood parks, this game night was held at the Providence club house. Families enjoyed games, music and a bounce house. Staff also invited the Providence neighbors back to the clubhouse for an education and resource fair planned for […]
City Staff Present Community Gun Violence Reduction Blueprint at Social Science Club
On February 15, Deputy City Manager Joan Walls and Equity and Engagement Director/Chief Equity Officer Rachel Joy presented information on the Community Gun Violence Reduction Blueprint during a meeting of the Social Science Club of Champaign and Urbana. The presentation was part of the Club’s 135th year of events. The presentation provided an overview and […]
Equity and Engagement Staff Attends Healing Circles at Centennial High School
On January 12, 2023, Acting Community Relations Manager, Mary Catherine Roberson and Justice Victim Advocate, Jarrel Young (Equity and Engagement) attended Healing Circles at Centennial High School. These weekly sessions provide young men an opportunity to connect with community leaders and receive empowering messages of hope and resilience.
City Staff Discusses Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with Local Boy Scouts
On November 17, 2022, Acting Community Relations Manager Mary Catherine Roberson (Equity and Engagement) met with members of the Boys Scouts of America Troop 101. The Troop is comprised of students from Champaign and Savoy. The scouts are working to earn their “Citizenship and Society” merit badges by learning about efforts to address equity within […]
City’s Human Relations Commission Meets for Retreat
On Saturday, October 29, Acting Community Relations Manager Mary Catherine Roberson (Equity and Engagement Department) met with members of the City’s Human Relations Commission (HRC) for a half-day retreat. The HRC is responsible for the promotion of equal rights and opportunities in the City and enforcement of the City’s Human Rights Ordinance. The group participated […]
CU Days Was a Blast!
On August 13, 2022, staff from the City’s Equity and Engagement Department staffed a booth at Champaign-Urbana Days, located at Douglas Park. Community members gathered to enjoy music, activities, and food provided by local vendors. Staff were able to speak to community members about resources that the City has to offer. The booth hosted a […]
Neighborhood Services Hosts CommYOUnity Block Party at Turnberry Ridge Park
On August 11, 2022, the Neighborhood Services Department hosted a neighborhood based CommYOUnity block party at Turnberry Ridge Park. Employees from the Equity and Engagement Department also assisted with the event. There were backpacks with supplies given to 125 kids. More than 150 neighbors enjoyed an evening of food and games, as well music provided […]