Category: Neighborhood Services Department News

Champaign Neighborhood Networking Conference Gives Chance to Learn, Connect

On May 17, the Neighborhood Services Department, supported by the Equity and Engagement Department, hosted the Champaign Neighborhood Networking Conference (CNNC). This conference was designed to bring neighborhood stakeholders, community members, and professional experts together to discuss a wide variety of topics. Presentations included information on how to apply for grant funding and develop programming […]


Neighborhood Services Staff Attend Inaugural NCDA Region V Conference

On April 24th, 2024 Community Development Specialists Shelby Mammano and Betsy Barclay attended the inaugural National Community Development Association (NCDA) Region V Conference in Columbus, Ohio. This conference marked a significant milestone as entitlement cities from Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin gathered for the first time. Midwest Community Development Professionals came together to […]


New Episode of Champaign Spotlight features Rob Kowalski

Dive into the latest episode of Champaign Spotlight, where we sit down with Neighborhood Services Director Rob Kowalski. Communications Manager Jeff Hamilton first talks with Rob about his background and what kept him in Champaign after attending the University of Illinois. Then we dig in to learn more about the pivotal role the Neighborhood Services Department (NSD) […]


Only 5 Days left to Register for the Champaign Neighborhood Network Conference

The City of Champaign will host the 2024 Champaign Neighborhood Network Conference (CNNC) on Friday, May 17, 2024, at the I Hotel and Conference Center. The conference is designed to support Champaign’s neighborhood-based community engagement and organizing efforts by providing resources, tools, and information to increase the capacity of neighborhood residents, volunteers, and grassroots organizers […]


Prime Contractor Breakfast

On Friday, March 29, 2024 the City’s Equity and Engagement Department in partnership with the Finance Department, hosted a breakfast for prime contractors to learn more about the City’s procurement process and diversity efforts. City staff were also invited to participate and speak to vendors.  More than 30 people were in attendance and our prime […]


Save the Date! Champaign Neighborhood Network Conference

Save the Date: Friday, May 17, 2024 Time: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Venue: I-Hotel and Conference Center, Champaign The Neighborhood Services and Equity & Engagement Departments are thrilled to present the 2024 Champaign Neighborhood Network Conference (CNNC)! This dynamic one-day event is designed to empower and connect our vibrant neighborhoods. Here’s what you need […]


Community Outreach Canvassing

After the Gun Violence incident that took place on March 22nd, 2024, at 1400 Block of North Hickory Street at Champaign; Justice Victim Advocate Eric Toga and the members of Neighborhood Ambassadors went out to canvas the streets. This campaign was an informative outreach to our community and the resident of the 1400 Block of […]


Country Brook Canvasing

On March 20 & 21, 2024,  Justice Victim Advocate, Eric Toga (E&E) and the Neighborhood Ambassadors (NSD) canvassed the Country Brook Apartments area for education and outreach after a gun violence incident. The goal was to provide  resource and service information that the City of Champaign has to assist with issues of gun violence. Additionally, […]


City Accepting Pre-Applications for New Housing Repair Program

From March 25 through March 29, 2024, eligible Champaign homeowners can pre-apply for the City of Champaign’s new Vital Home Repair Program, which could pay for up to $60,000 of improvements to the resident’s home at no cost to the homeowner. The Vital Home Repair Program provides forgivable deferred payment loans to eligible applicants needing […]


2024 Champaign Neighborhood Network Conference

Registration is now open for the 2024 Champaign Neighborhood Network Conference (CNNC), scheduled for Friday, May 17, from 8:00 am -5:00 pm at the I-Hotel and Conference Center. The CNNC conference is geared towards Champaign’s registered neighborhood group leaders, their respective neighbors, and any community members interested in neighborhood organizing and engagement efforts. Workshop presenters […]