Spring blooms with community programs
The city of Dayton’s Community Engagement Division has a year-round menu of activities and programs dedicated to helping neighborhoods thrive, and spring is an especially busy time. Neighborhood organizations and residents are welcome to apply for any of the resources now offered (please note the deadlines for each).
Neighborhood Leadership Institute
Applications are now being accepted for the 38th Neighborhood Leadership Institute, presented by the city of Dayton. The institute is a 10-week, 13-session program educating Dayton residents about local government, city of Dayton resources, and community leadership.
The 2023 program will kick off on Tuesday, April 25. It is comprised of workshops, skill-building components and a tour of Dayton neighborhoods. Participants
hear presentations from community, business and government leaders on
topics such as Dayton history, the role of city government, the criminal justice system, and cultural diversity. Class members also complete field assignments and a practicum requiring development of a grassroots project within their community.
Anyone interested in participating must apply by Friday, April 7. Applications are available at www.daytonohio.gov/nli and at the Department of Planning, Neighborhoods and Development, 101 W. Third St., sixth floor. For more information, contact Mike Squire at 937333-3203 or mike.squire@ daytonohio.gov.
Neighborhood Mini-Grants
The city of Dayton annually offers neighborhood associations, business associations, block clubs and other groups an opportunity to enhance the livability, public awareness and beauty of neighborhoods through physical improvements, marketing materials, community events, and other initiatives benefiting the community and increasing organizational capacity. Grants of up to $5,000 may be awarded to organizations submitting successful applications for eligible projects.
In 2022, grants totaling $71,425 were awarded to 16 neighborhoods for activities including business district signage, urban gardens, beautification projects, park and green space enhancements, a video series, art shows/special exhibits, and more.
Applications will be available May 1, with a submission deadline of June 5 at 5 p.m. Applicant organizations must attend orientation sessions to be held April 4 and 6 (5:30 to 7 p.m., 4303 W. Third St.). For additional information, contact Charles Porter at 937-333-1077 or charles.porter@daytonohio.gov or go to daytonohio.gov/minigrants.
Community Engagement Grants
The city of Dayton recognizes the value of community-based activities and their role in bringing residents together, building community and establishing a positive identity. The Community Engagement Grants program allows neighborhood organizations to seek funding to support community-organizing activities. Neighborhood associations, block clubs and business associations located in the city of Dayton are eligible to apply, with no more than one application accepted per organization and a maximum grant value of $1,000.
Applications may be submitted through Nov. 30. Applications for event support must be submitted 30 days or more prior to the scheduled event, with approved funds issued 10 days before the event date. Online applications will be available beginning April 3 at daytonohio.gov. For more information, contact Rachel Hardenbrook at 937-333-3708 or rachel.hardenbrook@daytonohio.gov.