Neighborhood organizations are the force behind many improvement and beautification activities you see in Knoxville neighborhoods. 

Litter clean-up, gateway entrance signs and holiday decorating contests are just a few of the ways neighborhood groups make their areas more attractive, fun and welcoming. Some neighborhood activities are internal improvements that strengthen neighborhoods. 

The City of Knoxville Office of Neighborhood Empowerment seeks applications for the annual Neighborhood Achievement Awards, which recognize the work of neighborhood organizations in improving, protecting and enhancing their neighborhoods. Groups can tout their own achievements, or other residents can nominate a group whose activities they admire. Neighborhoods and their achievements will be recognized at the 2022 Neighborhood Conference being held April 2. 

Example accomplishments include:

• Beautification and place-making projects, green spaces, community gardens, and other physical improvements to the neighborhood;

• Projects, events and activities that focus on connecting neighbors with one another, like street fairs, potlucks, home tours, holiday celebrations, and neighbors helping neighbors;

• New or ongoing communication efforts such as newsletters, social media and phone tree networks; and

• Activities involved in launching, reviving or strengthening a neighborhood group.

Organizations that would like to apply for a Neighborhood Achievement Award should fill out this form and return it to Courtney Durrett at [email protected] by no later than 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 18, 2022. For additional information, call Durrett at 865-215-3456.