 |
| “The City of Houston is proud to join the UBA in support of Loving Houston. Improving our neighborhoods is one of my top priorities,” said Mayor Parker. “We thank all of the volunteers for what they are giving back. Their volunteer efforts will impact the lives of many Houstonians.” |
HOUSTON -- Mayor Annise Parker announced the City's partnership with Loving Houston at a press conference held on June 1 at the historic Olivewood Cemetery located northwest of downtown. Sponsored by the Union Baptist Association (UBA), Loving Houston is a faith-based neighborhood revitalization initiative created to motivate and mobilize people to serve their communities. Its launch coincides with the Southern Baptist National Convention taking place in Houston June 10-12.
“The City of Houston is proud to join the UBA in support of Loving Houston. Improving our neighborhoods is one of my top priorities,” said Mayor Parker. “We thank all of the volunteers for what they are giving back. Their volunteer efforts will impact the lives of many Houstonians.”
Mayor Parker presented a mayoral proclamation declaring June 1-8, 2013 as Loving Houston Week. During this week, thousands of Loving Houston volunteers will carry out approximately 100 community cleanup and beautification projects in six Houston neighborhoods. The targeted neighborhoods are Acres Homes, Independence Heights, Fifth Ward, Denver Harbor, Third Ward and Sunnyside.
The City is also collaborating with Loving Houston to carry out two special projects. One is the cleanup of Olivewood Cemetery, Houston’s first incorporated African American cemetery situated along White Oak Bayou near First Ward. The other will involve door-to-door canvassing in the six targeted neighborhoods to inform residents about essential City services and resources.
“We’re pleased to be working in conjunction with the City of Houston Department of Neighborhoods and various human interest partners across the city to carry out community service projects in several neighborhoods,” said Tom Billings, UBA executive director. “Our focus is on loving our neighbor in tangible and practical ways through good deeds that will benefit Houston residents.”
Several City departments are providing support for the projects, including the Department of Neighborhoods, Public Works and Engineering, Solid Waste Management, Houston Parks and Recreation Department and the Houston Police Department.
On Saturday, June 1, 8 a.m. to 12 noon, volunteers worked on projects in four of the targeted neighborhoods. For details about the projects, contact Michael Kraxberger at 704.299.4851 or visit www.lovinghouston.net.
For information about the City's participation in Loving Houston projects, contact the Department of Neighborhoods at 832.393.0832 or on-site contacts listed below. To learn about the department's programs and services, visit www.houstontx.gov/neighborhoods.
