Speaker at the Police Training Institute
On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, Community Relations Manger, Tracy Parsons (E & E) spoke at the Police Training Institute. During his remarks, city staff emphasized the critical importance of fostering strong relationships throughout the community, promoting active engagement, and supporting the principles of community policing. City staff also highlighted the need for accountability and the […]
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 […]
“Secret Reader” at King Elementary
On November 19, Mikal Washington (Equity and Engagement Department) participated as a “secret reader” at King Elementary School’s Family Reading Night. He engaged students by reading to them while offering encouragement and support to promote literacy. The event provided an opportunity for students and their families to come together to celebrate reading and inspire a […]
Resistance in Resilience : Intertwining Our Roots Standing Our Ground
On February 24, 2024, Eric Toga from the Equity and Engagement Department attended the University of Illinois’ annual Black & Latinx Summit “Resistance in Resilience : Intertwining Our Roots Standing Our Ground”. This was an all day event held from 9:30am to 6:30pm at The I-Hotel and Conference Center. The summit discussed the challenges students […]
January Community Coalition Meeting
On January 10, 2024, the Champaign County Community Coalition held its monthly meeting at the Holiday Inn Conference Center (101 Trade Center Dr., Champaign, IL 61820). This months meeting highlighted Illinois Soul, a new media platform set to air starting February 1, 2024. This new audience service Illinois bridges the gap in the media landscape […]
The Game Plan
On August 26, 2023, Jorge Elvir, Community Relations Manager from the Equity and Engagement Department, participated in the Champaign Community Violence Response (CVRT’s) Youth Employment Resource Fair, “The Game Plan”. This was an exceptional opportunity to connect with talented, ambitious, and motivated young individuals seeking meaningful employment and skill-building opportunities. This event was a collaborative […]
Summer Kickoff Celebration at Hedge Pop Park
On May 26, 2023, the City of Champaign came together to host a Summer Kickoff Celebration at Hedge Pop Park. The City’s Equity and Engagement Department, with the assistance and support of the Police, Planning, Public Works, and Neighborhood Services Departments were there to make sure this was the best event possible. Multiple Blueprint partners, community organizations, […]
Champaign County Community Coalition
On May 10, 2023 the Champaign County Community Coalition hosted a wide variety of speakers highlighting work being done in the community. We heard from local law enforcement that were excited to share a steady downward trend of gun violence. They also shared a few community engagement events like Touch-a-Truck, Coffee with a Cop, and […]
Human Resources Presentation
March 31, 2023, Human Resources Director, Amanda Farthing, gave a presentation to students at the Richard A. Chaifetz School of Business at Saint Louis University on HR, leadership, and management. Amanda shared details about her career path and why she enjoys working in municipal government. Students asked questions about the human resources profession, workforce structure, […]
Community Engagement Takes Center Stage
On August 21st, Justice Victim Advocate, Jarrel Young (E & E Dept.) performed a medley of songs, including the Illini Anthem, for students at the University of Illinois during the Quad Day Festival. Quad Day is the final event for Welcome Week with other festivities including Illini Union Late Nighter, Illinois Sights & Sounds, and many […]