The City of Fort Wayne’s Community Development Division is excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 cohort of the FORT-ify Neighborhood Accelerator.
City opens applications for 2025 Fort-ify Neighborhood Accelerator Program
Fort Wayne, Indiana (November 27, 2024) – The City of Fort Wayne’s Community Development Division is excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 cohort of the FORT-ify Neighborhood Accelerator. This leadership program supports new, re-launching, and developing neighborhood associations, helping them strengthen their communities and create positive change.
Recognized nationally by Neighborhoods, USA (NUSA), the FORT-ify program earned 2nd place in the Social Revitalization category at the 49th Annual NUSA Conference in May 2024. The award celebrates innovative neighborhood programs across the country.
Participants in the 2025 cohort will:
- Create a customized Quick Action Plan (QAP) for their neighborhood.
- Receive coaching and resources to implement neighborhood projects.
- Be eligible for over $5,500 in project funding.
- Host community events, such as block parties and listening tours.
- Build relationships with other neighborhood leaders.
- Work closely with City staff during monthly governance, civic engagement, and fundraising workshops.
Neighborhood associations registered with the City of Fort Wayne are eligible to apply. Two neighborhoods will be chosen for the 2025 program.
Applications:
- Open now at https://engage.cityoffortwayne.org/fortify.
- Deadline: January 31, 2025, at 11:59 PM.
Information Sessions:
- Facebook Live: December 12, 2024, at 12:30 PM (Fort Wayne Neighborhoods Facebook Page).
- In-Person:
- Wednesday, January 8, 2025: 12:00 PM–1:30 PM (Lunch provided)
- Thursday, January 9, 2025: 5:30 PM–7:00 PM (Dinner provided)
- Location: ACPL Main Branch, 900 Library Plaza.
“It was like new life was breathed into our association through FORT-ify,” said Deirdre “Dee” Schwein, a 2024 participant. “The program gave us excitement and practical tools to turn dreams into plans, like hosting our first block party and creating projects to beautify and improve our streets.”
For additional assistance or inquiries about completing the FORT-ify Neighborhood Accelerator program application, contact Réna Bradley at rena.bradley@cityoffortwayne.org or 260-427-2284.
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