The 2014 observance of National Community Development Week, April 21 – 25, will focus on highlighting the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. The celebration in Valdosta will kick off with Mayor John Gayle issuing a proclamation supporting the CDBG and in recognition of the program’s 40^th anniversary.

The CDBG program is a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development program that provides grants to states, cities, and counties to devise neighborhood approaches that improve the physical, economic and social conditions in communities. Although the CDBG program across the nation has been cut significantly in the last several years—from $4.4 billion down to $3.03 billion—the City of Valdosta’s program remains a valuable resource to its citizens and improves the overall condition of our city neighborhoods.

The following is a list of events to observe National Community Development Week locally:

Monday – April 21: CDBG City-Wide Tour.  The city will highlight the CDBG program during National Community Development Week by conducting a city-wide tour of some the projects funded through CDBG funding.

Wednesday – April 23: Funding College and Beyond – Valdosta High School (Juniors/Seniors). This high school seminar will focus on how to finance college, smart tips on student banking, and how to be smart with credit.

Thursday – April 24: How Can the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Benefit Your Community?  This free workshop is open to the general public and will be held in the Valdosta City Hall Annex Multi-Purpose Room, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. 

Thursday – April 24: Valdosta Small Emerging Business (VSEB) Program Presents - Small Business Money Matters.  This free workshop for small business owners will be held in the Valdosta City Hall Annex Multi-Purpose Room, from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. 

Friday – April 25:  Mad City Money.  Fifth graders at Pinevale Elementary School will learn how to utilize financial resources for community benefits. 

For more information about National Community Development Week, contact the City of Valdosta’s Neighborhood Development Division at (229) 671-3671.