For a community to thrive, there has to be harmony between the government and community. For many citizens working in their neighborhoods to ensure it is safe, beautiful and prosperous; it is a selfless job. To help bolster these often unsung community heroes, the City of Lansing held it's inaugural LOVE Lansing Celebration.
"We want to recognize those people who are making a crucial difference," said Mayor Virg Bernero. "These are the folks that need a special occasion. This is about celebrating people who work day in and day out for their community, for their neighborhood."
At the celebration, more than 350 people gathered together to support their neighborhood leaders, and show their support for their city. These included members of Lansing City Hall, Neighborhood Watch leaders, business leaders, block leaders, neighborhood association leaders and community members.
"They are a part of the progress, they are a part of the solution," said Bernero. "People who are coming here tonight to be recognized are a part of the solution in a big way. Whatever ails the city cannot be fixed by City Hall alone. We are stronger together and we can accomplish anything together. But, it has to be the citizens and the government working together, and that is what this is about."
During the celebration, several community members were recognized for their efforts and effect on their neighborhoods. They include: Community Builder Award – Diane Sandborn; Community Impact Award – Peckham Youth Services; Emerging Leader Award – Paul Wozniak; Good Neighbor Award – Lansing Carpenters; and the Mayor Cup was awarded to Kelley Dean.
For the celebration, LOVE stands for Local Organization and Volunteer Excellence. What the Mayor thinks is important and vital to the success and vibrancy of the city.
"When you tend to think about it, the city is on one hand and the neighborhood is on the other," said Bernero. "But, when you work within your neighborhood, you are working with and for the city. We want to make sure we are coming up along side them and we want to bolster them, helping to empower them and in no way slow them down.
"We want to make sure our bureaucracy is responsive, so we learn from these neighbors. Today, it is about appreciation."
