GONZALES — City of Gonzales was selected as one of 20 finalists for the National All-America City Award given by the National Civic League.
The All-America City Award recognizes communities that leverage civic engagement, collaboration, inclusiveness and innovation to successfully address local issues, and this year a primary focus was placed on communities that are authentically involving and welcoming youth in this work.
The mission of the National Civic League is to advance civic engagement to create equitable, thriving communities. Each year, since 1949, the National Civic League receives applications from across the country for the All-America City Award.
A competitive review process — based on the criteria of shared vision, civic engagement, inclusiveness and equity, collaboration, innovation and impact — ensures that each year’s 20 recipients meet the values of the All-America City program.
“Democracy thrives when all residents are active and engaged in the policies and decisions that shape their lives. These finalists are breaking down barriers to meaningful youth participation and enacting programs that are creating equitable and thriving communities,” said Doug Linkhart, president of the National Civic League.
The 20 finalists are being recognized for their work to improve the health and well-being of young people and, by extension, all residents. Communities named as finalists will assemble teams of residents, nonprofits, businesses, government leaders and young people, and each city will present their community to a jury of nationally recognized civic leaders who ultimately name the 10 winning cities.
“We are excited to introduce Gonzales to the All-America Award selection committee and showcase our amazing community, the youth engagement initiatives our city has implemented over the years, and our collective efforts to improve the overall health and well-being of all residents,” said Gonzales Mayor Jose Rios.
In addition to Gonzales, the following cities were selected as finalists: Charlotte, N.C.; Dallas, Texas; Davie County, N.C.; Decatur, Ga.; Fayetteville, N.C.; Franklin Township, N.J.; Fulton, Mo.; Gardena, Calif.; Hampton, Va.; Independence, Ohio; Mesa, Ariz.; Monrovia, Calif.; Mount Pleasant, S.C.; New York, N.Y.; Port St. Lucie, Fla.; Redwood City, Calif.; Saginaw, Texas; San Antonio, Texas; and Wellington, Fla.
The final round of judging will take place in Denver, Colo., in June. During the three-day event, the city teams will have the opportunity to connect and share insights with peers, learn from national thought-leaders and present their work to the selection committee.
The event will culminate at the closing ceremony, during which this year’s winners will be announced.
For more information about the All-America city Award, visit nationalcivicleague.org/america-city-award/.
