Rochester Reporter

Mayor Malik D. Evans announced the launch of a new community engagement program, Neighbors In Action (NIA), aimed at empowering residents to strengthen and improve their neighborhoods.

The initiative is modeled after Neighbors Building Neighborhoods (NBN), which was started in 1996 by former Rochester Mayor William A. Johnson Jr. NBN was nationally recognized for its government and civic partnerships that supported various projects across the city, including beautification initiatives and enhanced public safety.

“I’ve wanted to launch this program since before my first day on the job as Mayor,” said Mayor Evans. “NBN was an incredible program that is still being continued by some neighborhoods. We wanted to refresh the model and expand participation as our community’s need for a program like this has not changed. Strengthening our neighborhoods starts with residents coming together and taking action where they live. NIA is about creating a collective purpose and fostering community pride by enabling residents to improve their surroundings, share their aspirations, and contribute to the overall progress of our city."

As part of the NIA initiative, residents and local organizations can apply for City resources and small grants to support community-driven projects.

To develop the program, the City is seeking input from community members through a survey and four in-person public meetings where residents can learn about the initiative and share insights about their neighborhood needs.