The City of Mesa is among 20 finalists in the competition to receive the 2023 All-America City Award. The finalists are being recognized for their work to improve the health and well-being of young people and, by extension, all residents. An important focus of the All-America City Award is to highlight communities that authentically involve and welcome youth in this work.
“It’s great to see the City of Mesa acknowledged by the National Civic League as a finalist for the All-America City award,” said Mayor John Giles. “I’m proud of the impactful programs and community collaborations that engage our young people and help ensure Mesa is welcoming and inclusive.”
Mesa and the other finalists were required to submit robust applications discussing their strengths and showing examples of three community-driven projects or programs that have adapted and transformed their cities. Mesa showcased the following community-driven programs:
Hactivate Mesa, a collaborative event where students study and analyze data on pertinent issues in the community to promote data science, problem solving, community pride and civic engagement. In 2023, the issues included homelessness and affordable housing, climate change and the opioid crisis.
Project Lit, an arts learning project that uses poetry, hip hop and drama to promote literacy and activate social and emotional development among young people, primarily students who attend Title 1 schools in grades 7 through 12.
SPARC (Sports, Programs & Activities Reuniting Communities) Youth Programs, through fun sports, simulation activities and opportunities, young people to learn life skills with the support and mentorship of Mesa police officers. SPARC provides outreach, engagement, educational and career pathway opportunities that impact an average of 300 youth and their families each school year.
The National Civic League will announce the ten communities receiving the 2023 All-America City Award at a three-day competition June 9-11 in Denver. The 20 finalists, representing 12 states, range in size from 4,700 residents to over 8 million. In addition to Mesa, finalists include cities like New York, Dallas and Charlotte.
About City of Mesa
With a population of more than 513,000 Mesa, Arizona is the 37th largest city in the United States and the second largest in the Phoenix-Mesa metro area. Mesa encompasses 138 square miles inside a 21-city region that has a population of 4.8 million people and is projected to grow to 5.2 million by 2026.
Mesa is a favorite destination for thousands of visitors, with more than 300 sun-filled days a year and average temperature of 72.6 degrees. Four major industries drive the area’s economy: healthcare, education, aerospace and tourism. Mesa is home to two award-winning airports, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport and Falcon Field Airport. For more information about the City of Mesa go to mesaaz.gov.