Neighborhood Projects and Initiatives

NEIGHBORHOOD PROJECTS AND INITIATIVES

Building Community through Social Media

During the month of April our Division had the opportunity to host 40 neighborhood leaders at the Salvation Army for a social media training. Six special neighborhood officers facilitated the breakout groups for digital newsletters, websites, zoom, Facebook pages, and telephone apps. Special thank you to those neighborhood leaders: Shelia Chaffin, Five Points South; William Harden Jr., Echo Highlands; Thomasine Jackson, East Thomas; Olivia Johnson, Sherman Heights; Valencia King, Woodlawn; Elizabeth Sanfelippo, Highland Park; April Myers-Williams, Bush Hills.

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ACE Class Spring 2022

The ACE (Academy of Civic Engagement) Spring 2022 Class is well under way. Participants can expect to experience municipal government, unlike they ever have before, during the six week experience.

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Tiny Desk In the City Series

Your Community Resource Services Division team is dedicated to sharpening their skill set better serve you! During our May In-service, CRR, Ms. Flora Johnson, spoke on the Microsoft Stream platform and facilitated team discussion around an upcoming initiative – “Tiny Desk In the City Series.”

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Welcoming ArchWell Health to the Roebuck Neighborhood

ArchWell Health is an innovative healthcare provider delivering best-in-class care at comfortable, accessible neighborhood clinics. Neighborhood Leaders met out at the Roebuck location for the open house event.

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Congratulations to Bush Hills!

Bush Hills Connections is receiving $39,650 in Bold grant money from the City of Birmingham, for the first time, to fund programs that will help it’s neighborhood association launch new green microenterprises and support programs including a cooperative micro-gardening network. The Bold program was launched in 2018 by Mayor Randall Woodfin as a way to distribute city funds to private economic development organizations in the city.

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Community collaboration is the key to addressing illegal dumping

Our Neighborhood Leaders are committed to community collaboration; especially when it comes down to addressing illegal dumping in their neighborhoods. On Saturday, February 19th the Community Resource Services Division hosted 65 Neighborhood Officers at the Dorothy Shields Conference Center for the first neighborhood officer training of the year. During the event, officers heard from Community Resource Representative Flora Johnson M.ed, Benga Harrison and Tawanna Willoughby with United Way- Hands On, LaKeela Lowe of Empowered Citizens of Birmingham ECBHAM, Sa’de Hammond from Keep Birmingham Beautiful Commission, Deputy Director Alice Williams, and Birmingham City Councilman Darrell O’Quinn.

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Great Expectations for the World Games

With about 160 days left until Birmingham hosts the world for the World Games, our neighborhood leaders are working hard to spread the word and get others involved. If you can’t tell by now, these games will be transformational for our city, and the expectation is already so great! Thomasine Jackson, the East Thomas Neighborhood Association President, stated that “Birmingham winning the bid for the World Games indicates that Birmingham can meet the demands of a fast-paced city. Residents desire city-wide growth and are eager for more retail and hotel expenditures.” She went on to add “hosting the games in Birmingham exposes residents as well as school children to different cultures and sports. They have a grandiose opportunity for first-hand experience.”

Percy McGowan, Vice President of the Jones Valley Neighborhood Association, shared that he feels that “The 2022 World Games will increase revenue and attract other future larger events.” He also stated that “hosting the games can showcase Birmingham as an economically booming hub for large-scale vendors.”

Our neighborhood leaders are excited about the World Games and are looking forward to all that it will bring to the city. So far, the World Games has already begun to establish amazing community partnerships that will truly leave a mark in our neighborhoods.

It’s not too late for you to get involved! Vendors and Volunteer are needed. For more information, visit www.twg2022.com

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The World Games are near

The City of Birmingham is revving up to host the 11th World Games in 2022. Next year, thousands of athletes and tourists from all over the world will dine and lodge in the Magic City from July 7th through the 17th. It’s an exciting time to engage in new generation sports such as archery, billiards, dance sports, gymnastics, lacrosse, martial arts, roller sports, tug of war, water sports, and many more.

Jimmy Coleman,  North Birmingham Neighborhood Association President and President of the Citizens Advisory Board (CAB), shared that “the World Games will help to make the city grow,” he went on to add “it [the World Games 2022] has two major benefits, first, it will be great exposure for the neighborhoods as our associations continue to get involved, and secondly activities will rally our school children and be great exposure to other types of sporting events. Five Points South Community President, Dora Sims, is also ecstatic about involving Birmingham’s youth. It is actually is a vision of hers to see school-aged children greeting the athletes participating in the events occurring in the community facilities closest to her neighborhood.

Neighborhood Leaders are well aware of the benefit Birmingham’s hosting of the games will bring to the city. Officers like Michelle Carlisle, Secretary of Garden Highlands Neighborhood Association urge everyone to get involved with her! She mentioned that “participating as a volunteer is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I hope that other residents will come together to be a part of history and to show the world great southern hospitality.”

It’s not too late for you to volunteer. Visit www.twg2022.com for more information on how you can get involved.

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East Thomas Welcomes The World Games!

During the month of November, the World Games, Vulcan Materials, and the East Thomas neighborhood came together with dozens of volunteers to plant 90 trees to promote beautification.

Click here to read more on the story.

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Riley’s got the Blues

The Riley Neighborhood Association and Magic City Blight Busters came together for a neighborhood clean-up event.  During the day, clean-up crews consisting of about 15 volunteers took to the streets within the neighborhood and focused primarily on Cedar.

Neighborhood President, Alma Stringer, shared that “having clean-ups regularly makes a difference and cuts down on the large piles of trash.” She also shared how the supplies borrowed from the city’s Keep Birmingham Beautiful Commission help with all of their efforts. She mentioned, “they are very happy to have a connection with KBB which provides the organizers with pick-up sticks, large garbage bags, gloves, and safety vests.”

After the event, neighborhood officers and residents gathered at the Riley Travellick Ecoscape garden. The goal was to have an event to get the community together to relax and enjoy the Ecoscape this fall. For the “Blues in the Park” event DJ Rob provided the music and about 10 other residents brought their lawn chairs and food.

On Facebook, visit the “Residents of Riley” page for neighborhood events and neighborhood news.

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Brownville Community Clean-up

The Brownville Community (East Brownville, Roosevelt, and West Brownville Neighborhoods), came together to clean up their community this December 2021. The group coordinated community volunteers, dumpsters and a special pick up service with the Department of Public Works. Excellent work Neighborhood Leaders!

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Happy Veterans Day!

Veterans Day is a time for us to reflect on the sacrifices made by our heroic men and women of the Armed Forces. Join the Community Resource Services Division in honoring the service of Harold E. Houston Jr., Rank E7 Chief Petty Officer, United States Navy.

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Penfield Park Neighborhood Clean-up

The Penfield Park Neighborhood Association had a very successful neighborhood clean-up, gathering over 15 bags of litter, a sofa, and 4 buckets of debris. The neighborhood leaders of Penfield Park hope to continue their clean-up efforts and “encourage full code compliance to effect positive change in attitude and a change in behavior regarding litter, noise violations, and speeding.”

Continue to keep Birmingham Beautiful, Penfield Park.

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TWG 2022 Tree Planting Event

Mark your calendars for the East Thomas Tree Planting Event on Friday, November 19, 2021 at 9:00 am. More details can be found on the flyer below. Special thanks in part to the East Thomas Neighborhood Association, The World Games 2022, Vulcan Materials Company, Cawaco R&D Council, and the City of Birmingham.

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Head over to Oxmoor Valley for Food Truck Tuesdays

The Oxmoor Valley Neighborhood Association is bringing new excitement to their neighborhood’s Community Center on Tuesdays. Neighbors were very excited about the weekly event and shared that they are happy that the association is making this happen so frequently. During the event, guests can check out food vendors such as “Not Ya Average Leaf,” “O’My Turkey Leg,” “Big Daddy’s BBQ,” and many more!

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Jones Valley supports Birmingham City Schools

This year, the Jones Valley Neighborhood Association voted to allocate $1500.00 to their local school – Jones Valley Middle. The association is in constant support financially of their schools and library programs; but, the COVID-19 Pandemic encouraged them to do a little more to support the school system during these trying times. Neighborhood President, Sandra Grayson stated that “Education is so important,” she went on to add “We are in a Pandemic, and children are missing school instruction and the opportunity to participate in extra-curricular activities. This allocation will help them have resources that can make their virtual learning a little bit easier.”

Neighborhood Secretary, Eloise Wormley, shared that her children attended Jones Valley, years ago, when the school was considered a Magnet School. She feels strongly that receiving a good quality education is essential to children becoming fully functioning adults. When asked to impart any advice Wormley stated “Neighborhood Leaders must be available to lend personal support to the educators within their neighborhood. Stay informed. Go to parent-teacher meetings. Ask questions of the Principal to learn what their goals are because ultimately their progress does affect your neighborhood.”

We hope that all neighborhood leaders will make every effort to support the Birmingham City School System. Thank you, Jones Valley Neighborhood Association, for all you do, and for doing your part in ensuring that the children of Birmingham City have access to education information and resources.

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The Riley Travellick Litter Crew is Hitting the Streets!

After noticing consistent litter along the main thoroughfare, Vice President of Riley Travellick Neighborhood Association, Beverly Ochuba, had had enough. Neighborhood Leaders Alma Stringer, President, and Beverly Ochuba, Vice President, established the Riley litter crew – Women of Virtue. The Women of Virtue’s litter crew picks up any unwanted trash throughout their neighborhood. When they first started, in August 2021, they would easily gather 6 to 10 bags. Now they are down to 3 to 6 bags a week.

Stringer wants to encourage residents to keep small shopping bags in their cars to have just in case they have trash. Instead of tossing items out on the street they can use the shopping bag instead and simply discard all trash once they get to their destination.”

In general conversations with neighbors, Ochuba learned that many residents have a preconceived notion that “the city will pick up the loose litter along the streets and that is just not the case.” She went on to add that “people just don’t realize the negative impact that waste has on their neighborhood. They just don’t care, because they don’t live here.”

As for other neighborhoods dealing with similar issues, Ochuba believes that “people just have to see that you have a love for your neighborhood. People won’t throw trash if they don’t see trash.” The Community Resource Services Division appreciates your initiative.

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One Community, Six Neighborhoods, all mobilized on one day.

Over 45 volunteers came together for a community-wide clean-up in the Five Points West Community. The effort focused on educating neighbors while raising awareness of the importance of collaboration to keep the community clean. Community Leader, Dora Sims shared an account of the entire event and stated that “community clean-ups encourage residents and businesses to be proactive in maintaining the cleanliness of their neighborhoods and commercial corridors.” She went on to add that, “clean-ups, help to raise awareness of the importance of preventing litter and keeping their property and block clean.”

The Five Points West Community is made up of six neighborhoods. Those neighborhoods are Belview Heights, Bush Hills, Central Parks, Ensley Highlands, Fairview, and Green Acres. Each neighborhood represented at the clean-up had a coordinator responsible for leading the volunteers and organizing the clean-up at various locations throughout the community.

To collect volunteers, the Association presidents posted flyers all around the community. They also contacted community partners such as Hands-on Birmingham, Birmingham Southern College, School Board Representative Sonja Smith, Representative Rod Scott, Councilor elect Carol Clarke, Birmingham Municipal Court – Pat Henderson and Caroline Jordan, neighborhood businesses, as well as Liaisons within the Birmingham City Council’s Office and the Mayor’s Office.

Sims shared a bit of advice for other community leaders who wish to put together such a large initiative, she said “do your best to be organized, have a chairperson for each of the neighborhoods. Let that chairperson be responsible for bringing together the volunteers. Advertise with your local businesses and garner support and reach out to groups who will bring volunteers together.”

Congratulations to the Community officers of Five Points West for showing the success of collaborative efforts. Special thanks to each of the neighborhoods for their participation and for being supportive of the clean-up. By your example, we can truly see that “when we work together you get more done!”

 

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Dolomite’s Neighborhood Clean-up Success

Dolomite hit the street this month (October) for a Neighborhood Clean-up. Focusing on several streets throughout the neighborhood, the clean-up crews picked up paper, bottles, cans, plastic, and as much loose debris as possible. The Association would like to thank Judge Thomas Thrasher for all of his help on the day of the clean-up, as well as the City of Birmingham Department of Public Works for giving them a helping hand.

Excellent work Dolomite! The CRS Division applauds your efforts!

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Central Pratt Neighborhood Association has Mustang Pride!

Central Pratt Neighborhood Association successfully allocated funds to the Birmingham Board of Education to benefit the P.D. Jackson-Olin High School Volleyball team. Neighborhood President, Donald Clarence Smith, shared that many of the association members finished P.D Jackson -Olin, or what once was known as Western Olin High School. The association’s members have a lot of school pride. That pride is what motivated the allocation to the Volleyball team for the 2021- 2022 school year. President Smith, class of ’76, played basketball all four years at Jackson-Olin, he said that playing sports essentially helped him to be a better leader a better follower, and more team-oriented.

Secretary Elenor Hall-White is also a die heart Mustang! She frequents the home volleyball games where she notices one things remains the same, “no matter if they win or lose the ladies are having fun and their spirit is always high!” Both Smith and White strongly believe that all neighborhood associations should make allocations to support the children in their communities. President Smith mentioned that “when you hear of things that the schools need, we [Neighborhood Leaders] should try to put our best foot forward to motivate them to stay in school and work hard.” Secretary White challenges each neighborhood in the community to support P.D Jackson-Olin and step in when there is a need; not just financially but also physically by volunteering and mentoring.

Thank you Central Pratt and Go Mustangs!

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September Lunch & Learn on Housing and Community Development

Thank you to the neighborhood officers who attended Wednesday’s Lunch & Learn on Housing and Community Development. The 50 officers in attendance gained a better understanding of housing exemptions and the process for delinquent housing from guest presenter, Gaynell Hendricks. Officers also enjoyed presentations from the City of Birmingham Community Development Department and the Land Bank Authority.

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Spire ZooSchool Success

Thanks in part to the Redmont Park neighborhood, and the many other sponsors, the Spire ZooSchool reached new heights last year. The hybrid classroom learning environment allowed students and ZooSchool Educators to safely and effectively provide online lessons via Zoom for 800 Birmingham City School 7th graders during the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only did students receive world-class education around animals and animal safety, but they also received backpacks with supplies, zoo admission tickets, and interesting keepsakes, such as beautiful feathers from their resident rainbow lorikeets. Thank you, Birmingham Zoo, the Spire ZooSchool Program, and their wonderful educators!

For more on the Spire ZooSchool Program at the Birmingham Zoo click here

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Thank you Public Works!

The residents of South Titusville are thankful to the Department of Public Works and Code Enforcement for their swift response to a dumping concern on Goldwire Street SW. The infraction was reported on Thursday, July 22nd and resolved on Sunday, July 25th.

 

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2020/2021 Neighborhood Officer Swearing In Ceremony

Community Resource Services would like to congratulate all of the officers serving our 99 neighborhoods! Thank you for your commitment to work along side your neighbors and city government.

 

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Special clean up in the Oakwood Place Neighborhood

Our team of staff went out this week to address a heavily littered roadway in the Oakwood Place neighborhood on Friday, July 16th. Together, we filled over 10 bags of litter! Twice a month, our staff is committed to doing our part to clean up the neighborhood. Join us in August for our next clean- up initiative.

 

 

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Wylam Neighborhood Association has a heart for the children

Wylam Elementary School Principal, Harriette Thompkins, reached out to the Wylam Neighborhood Association asking for their assistance in providing the K-8 school with surge protectors to help with classroom instruction. With the surge protectors, the teachers of Wylam Elementary would be able to connect and use multiple electronic devices and prevent unwanted electrical surges and spikes.

To help address the need, during a neighborhood meeting President Leroy Lassiter presented the neighborhood association with Principal Thompkins letter and the neighborhood association rallied to support. According to members, the allocation will assist the children and teachers in unthinkable ways as the COVID-10 Pandemic continues to affect the education system.

Let’s all thank the Wylam neighborhood for being very considerate, and encourage all neighborhood associations to find out ways to aid their nearby schools.

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Creating a more cautious environment in Woodland Park

Because of the neighborhood’s location south of the Greenspring’s Avenue interstate exit, parents are concerned about their children’s safety around speeding drivers. To address the issue, the Woodland Park Neighborhood Association voted to place 12 warning signs at strategic locations to notify drivers that there may be children playing or even pedestrians in the immediate area and they should drive cautiously. 

Neighborhood President Dorothy Scott has mentioned that there are multiple traffic concerns throughout the neighborhood and the residents agree. Specifically, on Lincoln Ave, Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, and Goldwire Street. 

With a survey created with the PEP department, it was agreed that these signs must be erected as many kids play close to the street. The entire Titusville Community is excited about the erection of the signs; and the Community Resource Services Division encourages all neighborhoods to consider learning more about how to add cautionary traffic signs, especially in residential areas, in and around their neighborhood.

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Huffman Neighborhood Association is off to Neighborhoods USA (NUSA) Conference

The NUSA Conference is an annual conference that is dedicated to supporting the growth of neighborhood associations while promoting productive communications and fostering collaboration among said neighborhood associations. Theodore Debro, President re-elect for the Huffman Neighborhood Association, has attended the NUSA conference multiple times. This year, Debro he hopes that the collective information learned from the sessions and the community of other participants will help him build his neighborhood up along with the other City of Birmingham communities.

Let’s wish Mr. Debro and all our chosen NUSA Delegates success as they attend the conference this year.

Official Neighborhoods USA (NUSA) webpage

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Ensley’s Allocation to the Village Creek Environmental Justice Society

The Ensley Neighborhood Association recently voted to allocate fund to the Village Creek Human & Environmental Justice Society (VCS). VCS is dedicated to improving Village Creek for its entire length of 44 miles to benefit over 300,000 or more residences, businesses, schools and churches in its watershed.

President George McCall believes that the $500 allocation will help VCS purchases necessary items, such as trash bags, gloves, vests, and more. He believes that they are doing great work considering the creek flows through the neighborhood and there has been a huge improvement over the years. Additionally, he hopes that this project will bring awareness of the overall need for supplies and the importance of community volunteerism.

Official Village Creek Society webpage

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Graymont Neighborhood Clean-up

At the heart of the Smithfield Community is the Graymont neighborhood. Because of its position near Legion Field and the city’s center, residents in the Graymont neighborhood have a respected history and are invested in the cleanliness of their neighborhood.

During the month of May, the Graymont Neighborhood Association joined forces with both Councilman Darryl O’Quinn and Councilwoman Crystal Smitherman to address alley ways and right of ways in parts of the neighborhood.

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A Sweet Escape to Riley Travellick’s Ecoscape 

“Place of tranquility” is how many residents describe their neighborhood Ecoscape now that the neighborhood association has come together to beautify the space. After years of neglect, the neighborhood association Vice President, Beverly Ochuba, made it a goal of her to make the space more inviting. She enlisted the assistance of her neighborhood association, community organizations, and city representatives to develop and execute a beautification plan.

In preparation of their Ecoscape Dedication event on Saturday, May 1st 2021, Vice President Ochuba and volunteers spent long hours in the park adding fresh coats of paint to their area, yard decorations, and establishing a nice gravel walkway. The beautification committee also worked along-side the Department of Public Works and the Horticulture Department who cut the lot and donated new plants and shrubs for the dedication.

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Smithfield Pride 

There is a lot more pride in the Smithfield Neighborhood thanks to the new pole banners which can be found at each of the outer street intersections on Center Street and Reverend Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd.

 

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Safety is essential for Grasselli Heights 

Averaging over three accidents a year in one particular intersection, the Grasselli Heights Neighborhood President John Wilson Jr. felt that something must be done to make a busy intersection safe for Lawson State students and residents.

For as long as Mr. Wilson can remember the intersection has posed safety concerns for residents in the area. He stated that “for 30 years, if not longer, we would cross the street unsafely when the traffic cleared. The street gets very busy considering the students coming in and out of Lawson State and the regular traffic just passing through.”

Now that there is a traffic light at the intersection, Wilson believes that “accidents will lessen at that location, and children can walk through the intersection with the light. Things are just safer overall!”

Wilson and the Grasselli Heights Neighborhood Association are appreciative to Mayor Woodfin and staff for communicating with him, James Fowler the Director of the Department of Transportation for working with them on this project, and the many others who stayed involved during the process.

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Neighborhood Officer Spotlight on Mrs. Thomasine Jackson, East Thomas

East Thomas Neighborhood President, Thomasine Jackson, is the epitome of leadership with a servants heart. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, she found herself dedicated to one cause, ending food insecurity. Her works in the Smithfield Community were recently highlighted in the June 2020 Society of St. Andrew newsletter. View the story here.

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Maple Grove is prepared in case of emergency 

Recently, the Maple Grove Neighborhood voted to allocate donated funds from Representative Rolanda Hollis towards a special project with an even more special purpose. President Jeanette Threatt shared that “their neighborhood is primarily made up of senior citizens and the association wanted to provide the seniors with an emergency kit to use during times of inclement weather.” Each kit includes a weather radio, a first aid kit, and a flashlight.

The idea came about after Vice President Connie Grant attended a Neighborhoods USA (NUSA) conference session on the topic of emergency preparedness. (Neighborhood Officers have the opportunity to attend NUSA conference and attend sessions geared towards teaching attendees’ projects that they can bring back to their home cities and implement in their very own neighborhoods.) During that particular session, the presenter discussed emergency preparedness kits and gave tips on how to establish this type of project, what type of items should be included in the kits, and the benefits of providing the kits to neighbors.

The officers hope that the residents who receive kits will be able to stay safe in times of inclement weather.

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College Hills gets a new look

The College Hills Neighborhood Association, in partnership with Councilor Darrell O’Quinn, have orchestrated the placement of 30 street sign toppers throughout their neighborhood. A special thanks to the Department of Transportation for installing the sign toppers. As well as Community Resource Services Division for their assistance.

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Zooming with South East Lake

South East Lake Neighborhood Association has taken their neighborhood communication to a new level by allocating to purchase Zoom video conference with their neighborhood funds. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic, our neighborhood associations have had to adjust their usual meeting styles and determine how they would keep neighbors informed of city happenings. South East Lake Neighborhood President, Willie Wooten, stated that since June the neighborhood has been utilizing Zoom for their meetings and the neighbors have take to it very well.

When asked why the association decided to use Zoom for meetings Mr. Wooten stated that “because they (the neighborhood association) couldn’t meet physically, they needed to explore other ways to keep in contact with one another and still meet.” Wooten was already familiar with Zoom through his church, so with his experience he was able to coach others on how to utilize the program as well.

The officers hope that the investment will encourage all neighbors to join in on the neighborhood meetings. President Wooten realizes that everyone does not own a computer, and many are not comfortable with technology; however, the association plans to do its part to make sure that everyone feels included.

So far, the Zoom meetings have been “well-received” according to Wooten. He went on to add that “the main benefit of using Zoom is that it allows us to stay in touch. Even in the pandemic, people have concerns that need to be addressed. Zoom is a good format and it allows all of us to come together and stay informed.”

Community Resource Services Division thanks you, South East Lake, for making that investment in your neighborhood!

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FOX 6 WBRC Red Rock Tuesday at Enon Ridge Trail

Check out Neighborhood Officers Adrienne Reynolds (Enon Ridge) and Thomasine Jackson (East Thomas) in a FOX 6 WBRC in a segment called Red Rock Tuesday at Enon Ridge Trail.

https://www.wbrc.com/video/2021/01/05/red-rock-tuesday-enon-ridge-trail/

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Neighbors helping neighbors in Fountain Heights 

On December 16, 2020, the Fountain Heights Neighborhood Association partnered with Sixth Avenue Sliders, I AM BHAM, and many other sponsors to host a clothing drive for community residents in need.

The give-a-way positively impacted more than 200 people in offering household items and gently worn clothing and shoes for men, women, and children. Neighborhood President, Bonderia Lyons, mentioned how encouraged she was to see van loads of clients brought to the give-a-way from Jessie’s Place, Keeton Correction Center, and other neighbors in need.

The Fountain Heights Neighborhood Association volunteered by assisting with setting up and sorting items for the event. The community provided patrons with bags of hand sanitizer, pairs of socks, and masks. The association attributes their success to neighborhood volunteers, supporting sponsors, and their CRR, Andrea’ Watson.

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6 Things you can do in your neighborhood while social distancing 

Living according to a “shelter in place” order and practicing social distancing has become our new normal. However,  our 99 neighborhoods are still finding ways to stay connected and informed. Here are a few ways to stay encouraged and unified while we continue practice social distancing.

Chalk drawings. Both the young and young at heart will enjoy decorating driveways with colorful artwork. Grab some chalk and get to work on your masterpiece!

Host a social distancing neighborhood clean-up. Encourage neighborhoods to come together to collect any litter that has accumulated along their block. Thank you to everyone who is still getting out there to make their neighborhood a beautiful place to live.

Share a plant and a nice note. The next time you’re in the grocery store, pick up a potted flower to leave on a neighbor’s porch with a thoughtful note. The gesture alone is sure to put a smile on anyone’s face.

Window Decorations. Stay social by placing springtime decorations around your home so that neighbors can share a smile when they pass by.

Cheer for essential workers. Residents can organize weekly cheer for our essential workers. For example, sharing smiles and cheers for our public works team who continues to serve during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pick a day of the week and spread the word, and then see who all joins in on the celebration.

Check on an elderly neighbor. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected many home bound adults and seniors. Take some time to check on a neighbor. Offer to run an errand or just stop by to say hello from a safe distance.

For more activities for you and your family take a look at the City of Birmingham Stay-At-Home Activity Guide

Stay connected and safe Birmingham!

Residents of Highland Park keeping their neighborhood clean during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Roses in honor of Neighborhood President Lela Jenkins

A team of volunteers came together at the Eastwood Flora Johnston Nature Park to establish a Memorial Rose Garden Entrance. The project was completed in honor of Eastwood Neighborhood Association President Lela Jenkins, who served for 20 years making a huge contribution to the improvement of the neighborhood and the Nature Park.

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The East Thomas Virtual Newsletter

Virtual communication has become our new normal during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The Neighborhood Officers in East Thomas continue to keep neighbors informed through their virtual newsletter. Check out the November edition of the “East Thomas Observer.”

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Southwest Community making the most out of Pandemic Partnerships

“It’s all about neighbors helping neighbors,” says Mr. Malone, who along with Eye Care Alabama, has spearhead weekend food give-a-ways at the Oxmoor Community Center during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Since March, they have distributed over 3 million pounds of food across the city of Birmingham. Their efforts have positively impacted neighborhoods as far west as Wenonah, West End Manor, as far east as Gate City, East Lake, even centrally located neighborhoods such as Fountain Heights.

In October alone, at least 300 boxes were distributed to senior citizens and home bound neighbors in the Oxmoor neighborhood. Malone says that “we are just a group of people who want to help other neighbors in need because you never know someone’s circumstances. They may not know where their next meal is coming from.” Malone looks forward to continuing to serve with the volunteers from Eye Care Alabama as they focus on different community outreach opportunities throughout the state of Alabama.

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Green Leaves in Oak Ridge Park

Oak Ridge Park Neighborhood Association had a successful beautification project planting trees and shrubs in the neighborhood. Special thanks to the Neighborhood Officers, Birmingham Park and Recreation, and all others who made the event possible.

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West End Manor Gathering and Gardening

Residents of the West End Manor Neighborhood found a new use for their neighborhood garden by utilizing that space as a meeting place during the COVI-19 Pandemic.

Neighborhood President, Debra Mays, was apprehensive about hosting neighborhood meetings during the pandemic because the virus has affected seniors at such a high rate. With that in mind, Mays began to consider safe and socially distant ways for neighbors to fellowship during these trying times. Today, the West End Manor neighborhood garden is providing more than just fresh vegetables for neighbors, it has also become a great meeting place.

Mays says, “People haven’t seen one another in months, so the meeting allowed us to uplift one another and socialize safely. It also helps that we can enjoy the nice weather and the tranquility of the garden while we meet.”

Officers will typically share information about the neighborhood meetings through emails, texts, and phone calls. President Mays is thankful for residents like Mrs. Hatcher who, in her 80s, will call and text neighbors about the meetings.

With an “honest,” yet “straight to the point” leadership style, Mays says that her neighbors know that she will always be a listening ear. President Mays has taken major steps to adjust her leadership style to meet the needs of residents during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Thank you President Mays, and all of the other association members who have contributed to making the neighborhood garden a safe space in the community.

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Determining a Virtual Meeting Platform that best fits your Neighborhood Association

The COVID-19 Pandemic has caused us all to reevaluate how we conduct ourselves in everyday life. Since March, our Division has observed an influx of virtual meetings and a heightened interest in using this technology to carry out neighborhood business.

Here are Community Resource Services recommendations for how to host your next Virtual Neighborhood Association Meeting. When determining the platform, consider using collaboration tools that would be simplest for your neighbors.

There are many FREE easy to use virtual meeting platforms that you can take advantage of during times like these. Zoom, WebEx, Go to Meeting, and Freeconferencecall.com are just 4 of the most user-friendly platforms according to neighborhood officers.

Zoom is a great platform for hosting your Neighborhood Meeting. Members can join through video conference or by dialing in only. Zoom has great features such as screen sharing, muting features, and polling. Follow this link to establish your Zoom account for your neighborhood association.

Video conferencing is great for increasing member engagement. however, it may be easier for members to join a simple conference call. Hosting a conference call through Freeconferencecall.com is a quick, straightforward option for your Neighborhood Association. Click here to establish your conference call link

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Neighborhood Revitalization in the Wylam Neighborhood

Blight removal is vital to neighborhood revitalization in the City of Birmingham. Since 2018, the city has demolished well over 1000 structures. Residents in the Wylam neighborhood joined Mayor Woodfin in front of an abandoned structure to watch as crews began demolition of this community eyesore.

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Leaving No Man Hungry in the North Birmingham Community

North Birmingham Community President, Jimmie Coleman, spearheaded a Community Food Give-A-Way in the North Birmingham Community last week. In total, there were about 1092 boxes distributed to residents from Hooper City, Fairmont, Acipco-Finley, Harriman Park, Collegeville, and North Birmingham neighborhoods.

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Neighborhood Clean-ups Make a Difference

Riley-Travellick Neighborhood took to the street this weekend to address high litter areas, overgrown lots, and blighted areas in their neighborhood. Residents partnered with Faze2 Camero & Car Club, I Am My Brother’s Keeper-Riley, and Magic City Blight Busters for a dynamic clean up addressing issue areas along Jefferson Avenue and the surrounding neighborhood streets.

Neighborhood Vice President, Beverly Ochuba, accounts of her experience at the clean-up, “We had about 40 people, including 10 neighborhood children, come out to join the clean-up. I could not stop the kids from cleaning. They kept saying, ‘we want to keep cleaning our neighborhood!’ They were very excited.”

The Neighborhood Secretary exclaims, “Our neighborhood looks so good! I have never seen it look this good!” Special thank you to the Birmingham Department of Public Works for coordinating lot cutting, special trash bag pick up and roll-off dumpster pick up for the clean-up initiative. Another huge thank you to Keep Birmingham Beautiful for supplying clean up supplies for the volunteers. 

Thank you Riley-Travellick for all of your hard work!

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 COVID-19 can’t stop Mrs. Thomasine and the East Thomas Neighborhood

The ingenuity of East Thomas Neighborhood President, Thomasine Jackson, during the COVID-19 reigns supreme as she coordinates Neighborhood Meetings using Zoom Meeting technology to keep residents abreast of City issues.

During Zoom calls with the East Thomas Neighborhood, participants can expect to learn about available senior services, socio-economic assistance, children’s resources, and what is new at City Hall. With a strong network of Council Persons, State Representatives, Police Chiefs, ALDOT Directors, Ministers, Teachers, and more, Thomasine puts on one of the most informative neighborhood meetings our Division has ever seen.

 The pandemic has caused her to adjust to utilizing virtual platforms, and while ZOOM Meeting and conference call technology has intimidated most, Thomasine and the East Thomas residents have banded together to stay informed, engaged, and trained on this new technology. 

 

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 Updates to Flora Johnston Nature Park in Eastwood Neighborhood

The Flora Johnston Nature Park has seen an upgrade thanks to the Eastwood Neighborhood Association. Seeing a need to update the old damaged benches, the association voted to expend resources for new metal benches and trash cans. CRR Harold Houston shared that it was a joint effort including our Division, the Neighborhood Association, Park and Recreation, and the Boy Scouts. The next phase of the project is to add mulch and roses to the area to add to the aesthetics.

 

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Tips on Increasing Communication to Neighborhood Association Members

Communication is key to any successful Neighborhood Association. Use one of the following methods to establish a manageable and affordable network of communication.

Flyers. Any activity, project, or goal can be announced in a flyer. Post flyers in places frequented by neighbors.

Neighborhood Walk Through. Organize a group of residents to go door-t0- door and introduce the association and its goals. This is a great way to begin a relationship with neighbors and possibly get them interested in joining the association.

Block Representatives.  Designate one or two individuals from each side of a street or block  to serve as a liaison can be a big help with recruiting support and communicating news.

Newsletters. A consistent newsletter can be an effective tool in communicating with your members. In the newsletter include informative articles to keep neighbors up-to-date.

Website.  There are a number of free websites and listserv resources available or organizations like neighborhood associations.

For assistance with increasing communication with new and old neighborhood association members, reach out to your CRR.

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Highland Park Volunteers Doing Good Together

Saturday, September 19 Highland Park Residents came together for a Neighborhood Clean-up. Thanks to volunteers from the association, as well as support from residents through the NextDoor App, the clean up was a success!

Special thank you to DPW for assisting with the clean up efforts.

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Community Resource Services Division breathes new life into Gate City by updating their neighborhood entry sign

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East Thomas and Enon Ridge Neighborhood Associations addressing food insecurity during the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 Pandemic has challenged families and home bound seniors across the city who may experience some challenges with finding access to healthy food options at local grocery stores amidst stay at home orders, curfews, and social distancing restraints.  With their elderly population in mind, East Thomas President Thomasine Jackson and Enon Ridge Neighborhood President Adrienne Reynolds pooled together their resources to host a weekly produce give-a-way at Wilkerson Elementary School.

Working in tandem, President Jackson and Reynolds feel as though the produce give-a-way allows neighbors to safely fellowship and meet their neighborhood association officers.

The event runs like a well-oiled machine. Initially, cars line up around the school building promptly at 8:00 am. President Jackson shares more on the logistics: first neighbors drive up to the school and they are greeted with a smile, our team of neighborhood volunteers then place the boxes of food in the person’s car. Before the recipients drive off, President Jackson says  “I personally share information about how they can get involved in the Neighborhood Association plus I prepare packets of other useful resources. June’s packets reminded residents about the 2020 census, our City of Birmingham home rehab application process, and other lists of local nonprofit initiatives.”

Much like other neighborhoods in the city, Enon Ridge and East Thomas are set in food-insecure zones making it difficult for residents to find food options, let along healthy food options. President Jackson believes that “this produce give-a-way is one solution to making access to food possible to our neighbors who may have limited mobility.”

Running from  April – June, the East Thomas Enon Ridge produce give-a-way has served about 500 families a week. Currently, residents from all over the Smithfield community have been positively impacted by the event and the hosts are happy to lend a helping hand to all who are in need during this time of uncertainty

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3 TIPS ON WORKING WITH LOCAL GOVERNMENT

A large part of your neighborhood association’s time will be spent advocating for change at the local level, it is important to know how you can effectively work with your local government. Below are a few ideas on how neighborhood associations can effectively influence decision making with your local representatives.

Know Your Issues. Your local government is dedicated to assisting you with addressing neighborhood issues. As a group determine which issues need to be addressed by local government and which issues can be addressed by the neighborhood independently. Collectively, both government and neighborhoods can work together to solve those long-term and short-term problems.

Keep Your Public Officials Informed. Keep your public officials abreast of your neighborhood concerns when you are meeting with them. Reference the things you have sent, follow up on your concerns, and offer up solutions to issues. Officials represent you, always feel comfortable with keeping an ongoing relationship.

Keep the Neighborhood Informed. Publish useful information in your neighborhood association newsletters and use your meetings to keep the neighborhood attendees informed.

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Community Resource Services Staff coordinating volunteers at the Pride on the West side Community Clean Up in Districts 5, 6, 7, and 8. 

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2020 Neighborhoods USA Conference Awards Germania Park for their Youth Code Inspecting Program

Germania Park Neighborhood Association was recently awarded 3rd place in the Neighborhoods USA (NUSA) Awards for Physical Revitalization/Beautification. The Junior Code Enforcer Program was created to encourage students to “help build where you live,” says Neighborhood President Evanne Gibson.

Members of the Germania Park Neighborhood Association partnered with the City of Birmingham Division of Youth Services to offer youth an opportunity to learn a new skill. The participants gained an appreciation for where they live; and completed the program with an understanding of the roles of the city employees who serve them.

According to President Gibson, the Code Enforcer Program “exposed our young people to the field of code enforcement with the hopes that they would see this field as a job opportunity upon completion of high school.” During the program, students would shadow the City of Birmingham Code Enforcement officers to learn the safety standards of construction and building inspection.

The neighborhood association members involved were happy to connect with a younger generation, share stories of Birmingham pride, and show them how together we can take care of the place we call home. Gibson accounts for a conversation with a student who said that she “‘learned to appreciate where she lives’ and now she says she ‘will think before deciding to liter or leave her trash on the ground around the city.’”

When asked about future plans and encouraging all 99 neighborhood’s involvement in the program, Gibson says “we have to take it upon ourselves to look out for the future. Her wish is for this to be a program for the city of Birmingham affecting all of the city of Birmingham.”

Gibson feels that “we’ve got to create new and innovative things for the children to do in Birmingham” and the Junior Code Enforcer Program has done just that. Community Resource Services is excited about the accolades to Mrs. Evanne Gibson, and the Youth Participants from the Germania Park Neighborhood!

View the guidelines for NUSA award categories here.

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Mason City Neighborhood Association Officers came together to pack grocery bags full of fruit, vegetables, juice, fruit snacks, and household items to share with home bound neighbors in the area. This project has become a reoccurring event that gets bigger and better every year.

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Community Resource Services staff performed outreach in the Roosevelt City neighborhood on August 9, 2019.

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Community Resource Services Staff volunteered at Huffman United Methodist Church’s Little Brown Bag Project on March 13, 2019. This project is an annual mission to provide breakfast and snack options for children in the Huffman Community while they are home during Spring Break.

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5 WAYS TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR COMMUNITY

There are many things that you can do to make your community healthy, safe, and clean. Here are a few tips to creating a more inclusive neighborhood.

Take away the opportunity for crime. Make necessary changes to your home, your car, and your lifestyle to take away the opportunity for crime. By keeping your home well lit, car locked, and bushes around the home trimmed you are lessening the opportunity for a crime to occur. Also, be sure to report any crimes as soon as possible.

Report nuisances and other noncriminal problems promptly. If you ever find yourself thinking, “Someone ought to do something about that” you can make a difference by notifying the necessary property owner or making attempts to ask for assistance from the relevant City Departments. Examples of these items are junked cars on lawns and in the street, old mattresses left to rot in the backyard, broken furniture on the side of the rode, garbage piling up.

Introduce yourself to your neighbors. Did you grow up in a neighborhood where everyone knew each other? That is rare today. Community is built by making healthy relationships. It is difficult to form a safe and supportive community for residents without adults and children knowing one another.

Pick up litter near your home. You can help stop littering in your neighborhood by taking away the litter that attracts it. People are less likely to litter where they don’t see litter around already.

Get involved in your neighborhood association. Keep informed of neighborhood issues and activities by attending your neighborhood association meetings. This is a great way to meet other neighbors and make contributions to the improvement of your neighborhood.

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Over sixty neighbors and volunteers helped Keep Birmingham Beautiful during a cleanup of the historic Smithfield Neighborhood on February 26, 2019.

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Our new “Profiles in Service’’ city employee video is up on the city’s Facebook page. On August 15, 2019, the camera was on Alice Williams, deputy director of Community Resource Services in the Department of Community Development. To see it, go here. (If you are reading this via a city computer, you will be unable to see it. Please try using another device.)

 

 

Community Resource Services Division
City of Birmingham, Community Development Department
710 North 20th Street- 2nd Floor Suite 202
Birmingham, AL 35203
Phone: (205) 297-8192 | Fax: (205) 297-8193
Email: CommunityResourceServices@birminghamal.gov
“Putting People First!”