ECHO Housing Corporation’s initiative Jacobsville Join In awards funds totaling $5,000 to implement early action projects in the Jacobsville neighborhood. Early actions are opportunities for small improvements to build neighborhood spirit by demonstrating progress to improve the neighborhood. Ten groups were awarded $250 up to $1,000 per project.
Project proposals were asked to incorporate four goals to benefit the neighborhood which comprise of, having an immediate impact on the quality of life in the neighborhood; involving a diverse representation of residents and stakeholders; building collaboration among neighborhood organizations and businesses; and building a foundation for future impact through the Jacobsville Join In process. The funded projects include:
• Jacobsville Area Community Corporation’s Christmas on North Main Parade banners
• Throw Your Worries Away and Engage “Flower Power†neighborhood event
• Jacobsville Neighborhood Improvement Association engagement activities to foster neighborhood relationships
• Jacobsville Join In Infrastructure & Parks Committee healthy living summer program
• Lucas Place Shining Stars Artz in the Park
• DiLegge’s Restaurant beautification and neighborhood clock dedication project
• Media Ministries Inc., Dream Center youth basketball program
• Delaware PTA Trixx Stix program
• Lucas Place II community garden
In 2013, ECHO Housing Corporation’s Jacobsville Join In awarded eight organizations funds totaling $5,071 to implement early action projects in the Jacobsville neighborhood. “We are excited to see the awesome ideas generated this year by neighborhood groups. Jacobsville residents and stakeholders have really taken ownership for small improvements to build neighborhood pride and spirit, while the neighborhood works on the large-scale planning project,†said Jennifer Mason, ECHO Housing Corporation’s JJI Community Mobilizer.
Over the last 12 months, residents and stakeholders have been working to develop goals for the neighborhood and create a plan to improve the quality of life in Jacobsville that can be used to leverage resources to implement the vision for the neighborhood. This planning process is based on a model that is being used successfully in other Indiana communities, but tailored to Jacobsville.
“The neighborhood is moving closer to finalizing the Jacobsville Quality of Life Plan, and should expect an announcement this spring,†said Mason.
