The Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins University has announced that the Ardmore-Sherwood Forest neighborhood in West Ashley will receive Love Your Block grants to fund resident-led, neighborhood revitalization projects.
As one of 16 newly selected U.S. cities, Charleston will join the largest cohort in the history of the Love Your Block program. A large part of the funding will go towards micro-grants that support volunteer-fueled solutions developed by members of the Ardmore-Sherwood Forest community. This could include such things as preventing or eliminating blighted properties and increasing greenspace, public safety, and helping people who are at risk of losing their homes keep their homes.
"Charleston is honored to be chosen for this initiative, with this West Ashley neighborhood poised to benefit greatly from this grant,” said Mayor of Charleston William Cogswell. “Our city is committed to fostering vibrant communities, and this grant presents an exciting opportunity for Ardmore-Sherwood residents to lead the way in neighborhood revitalization projects."
In addition to funding, the Ardmore-Sherwood neighborhood will also receive a dedicated AmeriCorps VISTA and technical assistance and training from the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins team of civic engagement experts.
Ardmore-Sherwood residents will be able to apply for mini-grants for neighborhood improvement projects through the Love Your Block program in 2024.
“Those familiar with Ardmore and Sherwood Forest are well aware that these neighborhoods have long been overlooked,” said Ardmore/Sherwood Forest Neighborhood Association President Owen Vogel. “In partnership with the City of Charleston, the Charleston Parks Conservancy, and other committed local partners, our Neighborhood Association has dedicated itself to changing this narrative. Today marks a significant milestone in our quest to secure meaningful investments for our community. I am immensely proud to be a part of this community and excited to leverage the Love Your Block Grant to continue making strides for a neighborhood that truly deserves the best.”
For more information related to the Love Your Block program or the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins, visit publicinnovation.jhu.edu/
