Charleston Reporter

Today in Charleston, Mayor Cogswell announced the winners of the first round of mini-grants under the Love Your Block program. This initiative, led by residents, focuses on small projects aimed at creating sustained community impacts. There were 39 applications from residents and community groups presenting innovative solutions to improve neighborhoods in collaboration with city authorities.

The Love Your Block program, supported by the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins, brings city leaders and residents together to enhance neighborhoods. This year's 25 selected projects show a commitment to community pride, neighborhood beautification, and civic engagement, aligning with Charleston's focus on reducing blight and aiding community revitalization.

Among the winning projects are the Ardmore-Sherwood Forest Native Pollinator Garden and Community Seed Bank, which focuses on creating a space for native wildflowers and a seed bank for sustainable green spaces. Another project is The Pink House’s exterior repair and beautification, which will receive funding for activities such as pressure washing, painting, and landscaping. Multiple homeowners will benefit from debris removal and exterior repairs under the Neighborhood Clean-up and Repairs project.

"“As Charleston continues to invest in resident-driven solutions, Love Your Block plays a vital role in fostering collaboration between local government and community members,” said Mayor Cogswell. “By providing mini-grants and hands-on support, the program helps residents transform public spaces, strengthen neighborhood connections, and build a greater sense of ownership and pride in their communities. I extend my congratulations to all the award recipients and express gratitude to the city’s partners and residents, and to the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins, for making this initiative possible.”"

The Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins University works to promote public sector innovation worldwide. By integrating practice with research, the Center aims to transform government culture, deliver outstanding results for residents, and inspire trust in public service. Launched in 2021, it supports local governments in leveraging resident insight, talent, and energy across the globe.

For additional information, please visit publicinnovation.jhu.edu.

Media Contact: Bay Sheehan