Neighborhood Voice

All Rockford residents deserve to be connected to the resources, services, and support they need in order to feel safe and happy in their neighborhoods. The Neighborhood Specialist strives to empower Rockford neighborhoods and uplift resident voices, helping all neighbors to develop a sense of belonging in the City.

Residential Neighborhood Sign Program - Now Accepting Pre-Applications! 

Creating a welcoming entrance is not only a way to convey the name of a neighborhood, but it should provide a meaningful opportunity for neighbors to connect and engage in valuable conversations around neighborhood culture and identity. The City of Rockford is excited to offer an opportunity for neighborhoods to receive financial support in establishing beautiful, inviting entrances that thoughtfully reflect the diversity and culture of their residents.

The City of Rockford is now accepting pre-applications for this program. Please see materials below for specific details. 

• Residential Neighborhood Sign Program Guidelines
• Preview the questions on the Pre-Application
• Pre-Application Link

Neighborhood Groups

Several Rockford neighborhoods are served by associations that may host meetings, hold events, and develop projects to positively impact their neighborhoods. If you would like to know if your neighborhood has an association, contact Neighborhood Specialist Barb Chidley.

Connecting with Neighbors

Anyone who lives in a neighborhood can make a difference! Even seemingly small daily habits can create a big impact. If your neighborhood does not currently have a neighborhood association, the Neighborhood Specialist can help you create one. If leading a large group is not your thing, you can learn how to connect meaningfully with your neighbors in other ways as well.

• A neighborhood association can bring together residents to discuss concerns, develop common goals, and create a sense of community in the neighborhood. It can be formal or casual. The Neighborhood Specialist will help you develop the structure that works best for you.
• Block connectors can develop relationships with and among neighbors in close proximity to one another, as well as help their neighbors connect to resources, services, and support.
• Social events can be large or small, involving a lot of time and effort or just a little.

Other Assistance

The Neighborhood Specialist can also help you and your neighbors:

• Facilitate conversations about important topics impacting your neighborhood
• Develop goals and plans for improving the quality of life in your neighborhood
• Connect to resources needed to accomplish your goals, such as grants and project partners
• Build relationships with City departments and personnel, your alderman, and your community service police officers

Helpful links

• The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois's neighborhood grants program offers up to $2,500 to projects which positively impact neighborhoods (2023 applications open on March 13 and close on April 17).
• Rockford Day is celebrated on August 15^th each year
• Nextdoor is a social network for neighbors