All-America City Award Q&A

What are the All-America City Awards?
Sponsored by the National Civic League since 1949, the All-America City Award is a prestigious competition that recognizes communities for their innovation and collaborative effort in solving local challenges. For 2010, Ferguson is one of 25 cities vying for 10 awards, and it was chosen based on three community projects that best exemplify the ideals of the competition.

What are Ferguson's three community projects for the competition?

1) Community Gardens

In the past year, Ferguson has created two thriving community gardens - one in the Robert-Superior neighborhood and one in Old Ferguson West. Both have taken rundown parts of the community and made them vibrant again, drawing gardeners and volunteers from all over the city.

2) Plaza Heights Initiative

Working in one of the poorest and most troubled corners of Ferguson, city officials have worked closely with area residents to build trust, encourage more active involvement, and find creative ways to reduce crime and improve the neighborhood's appearance.

3) Challenger Learning Center

A joint project of the Ferguson-Florissant School District and the national Challenger Foundation, the Challenger Center takes math and science education out of this world, allowing kids to experience the wonders of space exploration.

So how do we win an All-America City Award?
On June 16-18, a team of 30 Ferguson residents (both youth & adults) will travel to Kansas City, where they'll do a 10-minute presentation followed by a ten-minute Q&A with the judges. The team will spend several weeks working on this presentation, while also raising funds for the trip.

Who is on the Team Ferguson delegation?
We have elected officials, school board members, representatives from each of the three projects, and a number of other residents who are active in the community.

How much do you need to raise?
With registration fees, hotel rooms, meals and travel expenses, the cost is approximately $500 per delegate, and we have 30 delegates total. The city of Ferguson is funding a portion of the overall cost, but we're looking to sponsorships and raffle ticket proceeds to make up the rest.

How can I help?
Buy a ticket in the Ferguson Food & Fun Raffle! Tickets are $10 and you'll have a chance at more than 20 great prizes! Only 1000 tickets are available, and you can buy them at the Ferguson Farmers Market, city hall, Marley's, and Ferguson Style & Spa. If you'd like, you can also help us sell tickets! To sign up, call Shannon Howard @ (314) 359-5927.