Why National Community Development Week?

The objective of National Community Development Week is to educate the community on the importance of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, its impact on the community, and the need for increased program funding.

National Community Development Week will be held April 11-15, 2022. This is a critical time for appropriations; work on the upcoming FY 2023 HUD funding bill will be in the initial stages. National Community Development Week provides a perfect forum to cement the importance of CDBG in the minds of those in Washington to increase program funding.

National Community Development Week was created in 1986 to bring national attention to the CDBG Program through grassroots support at a time when the program was facing scrutiny by Congress. Grassroots support means activities by state and local CDBG grantees to recognize the program, showcase projects, and share program impact data with Congress. It provides the opportunity for communities to promote, educate, and advocate on behalf of the program. It is intentionally held during the Congressional appropriations season to allow for a concerted grassroots effort to promote the program. It is important for all communities that receive CDBG funds to participate in National Community Development Week to amplify the grassroots voice.

Here at the City of Urbana, Community Development Services work diligently to serve the people of Urbana. 

Major Activities of the Community Development Department:

• Plan and implement department goals, plans, standards and policies
• Manage resources for efficient achievement of City and department goals and objectives
• Develop department staff through training and evaluation procedures
• Manage personnel through work directives and rules
• Represent the department and City in various intergovernmental activities, in matters with the news-media and at public relations meetings and events
• Participate in the planning and preparation of the City's capital improvements long-term plan and budget

Also, go to our Grants Management Division to see the grants the City manages to help provide safe and affordable housing that increases the quality of life for residents.