With the mission to revitalize Knoxville's neighborhoods, the Community Development Department will highlight several redevelopment areas, projects and programs as part of National Community Development Week April 1st-6th.

This year's theme is "Changing Communities, Changing Lives" and will emphasize local initiatives funded through a variety of federal partnerships.

"This is always an exciting time of year for us because we get to share with everyone how our work impacts the community," said Community Development Director Becky Wade. "Not only do we have several programs to help with affordable housing, but we are also responsible for fair housing practices, accessibility issues and more."

The department will be hosting various activities, including:

A Breakfast for Elected Officials at 9 a.m. Monday, April 1st, at Volunteer Ministry Center, 511 N. Broadway.

A Recognition program of Five Points Redevelopment at 2 p.m. Monday, April 1st, at Paul Hogue Park, corner of Chestnut and Wilson streets. Knoxville's Community Development Corporation (KCDC) is a partner for this event. A newly-constructed home will be available for touring and other CD accomplishments will be highlighted.

Dedication of Samaritan Place Renovations and Eldercare Seminar at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 2nd, at Catholic Charities, 3009 Lake Brook Blvd.

Open House for newly-constructed homes at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 3rd, in Lonsdale. Knox Housing Partnership is a partner for this event. Homes are located at 2110 and 2116 Ohio Street.

Equity Awards Breakfast at 7:30 a.m. Thursday, April 4th, at All Occasion Catering Facility, 922 N. Central Street.

Community Development Fair with exhibits, information booths and games for children from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, April, 5th, at Ashley Nicole Playground at Caswell Park, 620 Winona Street. This event is free and open to the public.

In addition, the Community Development staff will be participating in a clothing drive to benefit the Knox County Council PTA Clothing Center and helping with a project for Rebuilding Together Knoxville, a nonprofit organization that improves the homes and lives of low-income homeowners.

Each year, National Community Development Week provides the opportunity for municipalities, counties and other grantees to showcase projects and programs. This year marks the 27th anniversary of the campaign, which is designed to focus local as well as national attention on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, the HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program and the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Program.

For more information on the City of Knoxville's Community Development Department, please visit www.knoxvilletn.gov/development.