SE Valley Times

Mesa, AZ – A delegation of more than 50 Mesa youth, program managers and City officials traveled to Denver to vie for the prestigious All-America City Award. Mesa is among 20 finalists being recognized for their work to improve the health and well-being of young people and, by extension, all residents. This year's All-America City Award focuses on highlighting communities that authentically involve and welcome youth in this work.

"As a city, we're known for our humility. We don't brag a lot. But we have plenty of great things to celebrate. I'm so proud of our incredible youth programs that will be on display this weekend," said Mesa Mayor John Giles. "Each of these programs and the participants here today reinforce that Mesa is welcoming, inclusive, and building a bright future for all that live here."

Mesa and the other finalists submitted robust applications discussing their strengths and sharing examples of three community-driven projects or programs that have adapted and transformed their cities. Mesa showcased the following programs:

• Hactivate Mesa is 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 is an arts learning program that uses poetry, hip hop and drama to promote literacy and activate social and emotional development among young people, primarily students attending Title 1 schools in grades 7 through 12. 
• SPARC (Sports, Programs & Activities Reuniting Communities) Youth Programs engage young people through fun sports, simulation activities and opportunities 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 last time Mesa won the All-America City Award was in 1979. 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 an 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.

Original source can be foundhere.