City of Glendale - News

Neighborhood Resolutions

One neighborhood’s work inspires others to revitalize and preserve their own communities

Don’t let 2006 take off without setting some New Year’s Resolutions. Though you may be perfectly capable of coming up with and accomplishing your own personal goals, it doesn’t hurt to get some outside help for those heftier items on your wish list.

If you’re looking to improve your neighborhood but don’t know where to start, the City of Glendale is there to help. The Glendale Neighborhood Partnership Office can lend a hand in a variety of significant ways.

From the Heart

Since 1999, when the Heart of Glendale neighborhood contacted the Neighborhood Partnership Office, the residents of this enclave have worked in partnership with the city to improve, preserve and revitalize their community. Their support and guidance with the Heart of Glendale Neighborhood shows how a city/neighborhood partnership can make residents’ dreams come true.

It hasn’t been easy but collectively this partnership has coordinated 16 different volunteer projects that have resulted in 408 volunteers donating 1,735 hours of work valued at $28,575. These volunteers completed tasks ranging from house painting to landscaping as well as a Cinco de Mayo celebration and a much-anticipated annual holiday party.

More than Bricks and Mortar

But it’s not just about outward appearance for this beloved neighborhood. Communication among the residents has been a focus as well, and these projects have enabled the community members to voice their opinions about changes to their neighborhood. An initial survey was sent to 456 homes in 1999 to identify neighborhood issues and plan future activities. In 2000, a neighborhood conference was held to discuss neighborhood improvements, the community center and local law enforcement.

Of course, revitalizing a neighborhood requires financial investment to support the “sweat equity” provided by residents, and the Heart of Glendale is no exception. With the help of the Neighborhood Partnership Office, this community has received close to $300,000 in grants to repave allies and modernize Clavelito Park. Nearly $1.5 million has been acquired to address vacant lots in the neighborhood and to attract new residents, and the neighborhood continues to look for funding opportunities for other projects.

Because of everything that has been accomplished, the Heart of Glendale is truly a story of success. But beyond that, it’s a source of inspiration for Glendale’s many established and forming communities.

To find out more, call the Neighborhood Partnership Office at (623) 930-2868.