Month of Hope

April was designated as the “Month of Hope” thirty years ago by Mothers in Crisis, a Tallahassee-based group providing “prevention, intervention and inspiration.” The timing fits well for the events of today, both in terms of the subject and source; the past 12 months have been particularly difficult for working moms. Here’s hoping that April brings more vaccinations, less gun violence, more racial healing and some relief for the mothers and so many others who remain in crisis.

President, National Civic League

Congratulations to the 2021 All-America City Finalists

Georgia Tackling

Racial Equity

Community Development & Anti-Displacement Toolkit

The National Civic League is excited to announce the finalists for the 2021 All-America City Award. Finalist communities, representing 15 states, range in size from 9,000 residents to over 1.2 million. The finalists share a common bond of working to build equitable & resilient communities. Read more about the 2021 finalists and register for this year’s AAC presentations, awards and workshops.

While many cities and towns are individually addressing racial equity and inclusion, Georgia cities are taking a collective approach. The Georgia Municipal Association has created an Equity and Inclusion Commission to aid local efforts statewide. Subcommittees are covering topics like criminal justice reform, inclusive leadership, housing and workforce development.

2021 RWJF-NCL Health Equity Award Application

Update on the Model City Charter Revision Project

Local Government COVID Relief Spending

Now accepting applications for the 2021 Robert Wood Johnson Foundation-National Civic League Award for Health Equity. The award recognizes and honors individuals who have successfully implemented a systems change approach to improve health outcomes for those most impacted by health disparities. Learn more and apply by April 30, 2021.

The League’s effort to review and update the Model City Charter is moving forward according to plan. In addition to the traditional emphasis on efficiency, economy and effectiveness, the next model will reflect up-to-date ideas on issues such as equity, public engagement and the use of technology and social media. Read more.

Last month, a $1.9 trillion relief bill was signed into law that includes $350 billion in direct aid to state and local governments. A recent CivicPulse survey shows the majority of local government officials plan to use the funds to cover payroll, implement public health safety measures and purchase PPE.