Fall is in the air. The raking of leaves, sprucing of yards and some “out with the old” is due. But on October 1, the City of Valparaiso is charging in with something new.
Adopt a Block Valparaiso is a new city program that launches this fall. It is a partnership between the Code Enforcement department, the Community & Staff Specialist and the city’s Department of Parks & Recreation.
It is a community-based program that is dedicated to improving our community by empowering residents and local organizations to volunteer and take responsibility for their neighborhoods, block by block.
The program was spurred by Vicki Thrasher, director of code enforcement and building commissioner. “We’d like to encourage residents and organizations to volunteer and take responsibility for their blocks, which promotes neighborhood stability, and results in a strong, vibrant community,” said Thrasher.
The city will be launching the program in Tower Park by tackling a community service project in the park, and picking up litter around the neighboring area.
The Porter County Career & Technical Center is taking the lead on this launch project, where school leaders and students alike will roll up their sleeves. They ask residents of the Northview neighborhood to join in the effort.
PCCTC Principal/Director Jon Groth said, “The Career and Tech Center is happy to participate in the Adopt a Block program. Our students care about their community and are eager to give back by putting in some work in the Tower Park area.”
If you are interested in participating in Adopt a Block Valparaiso, the group will meet at Tower Park on October 1 at 12 p.m. Activities will continue until 2 p.m. Contact Christine Hisick (Community & Staff Specialist), 462.1161 or chisick@valpo.us for more details.