Program Overview The Sustainable Neighborhoods Program gives residents the opportunity to become active partners in making a vibrant and sustainable community. Neighborhoods participating in this unique certification program use guidance from city/county staff to organize workshops, projects, and events that enhance the livability of their neighborhood and reduce resident’s ecological footprint. Participating neighborhoods earn program credits for their efforts and, depending on the number of credits earned in a given year, may receive designation as a “Participating Sustainable Neighborhood” or an “Outstanding Sustainable Neighborhood” from the city/county. Goal Areas The Sustainable Neighborhoods Program focuses on five broad goal categories and associated target areas. Participating neighborhoods use these goal areas to guide their selection of workshop topics and neighborhood initiatives. The goal categories are energy, air, water, land, and people. Benefits The specific benefits to residents and neighborhoods vary with the types of initiatives and projects that a neighborhood chooses. But whether its increasing energy efficiency in residents’ homes, converting lawns and common areas to waterwise landscaping, or organizing neighborhood food drives, participation will enhance the social, ecological, and economic strength of the neighborhood. Recognition Neighborhoods participating in the program earn credits from the city/county based on participation and project accomplishments. The credits work like a point system and depending on the number of credits earned in a given year, neighborhoods may receive designation as a “Participating Sustainable Neighborhood” or an “Outstanding Sustainable Neighborhood” from the city/county. Neighborhoods earning “outstanding” designation will receive recognition from elected officials and will receive custom neighborhood signage.