The mission of the Office of Neighborhood Vitality is to enhance the ability of Garland residents to create and sustain neighborhoods that are safe, attractive, and economically stable. 

Our Vision

Our vision is to increase the neighborhood management capacity of Garland neighbors through education and training so they are able to engage with other partners and to manage their neighborhood’s future.

All neighborhoods face challenges.  In healthy neighborhoods, neighbors are able to manage the day-to-day concerns that arise.  Neighborhood management, the effort to develop and sustain a vital neighborhood and influence others to cooperate in the effort is at the core of a healthy neighborhood.  Neighborhood management capacity refers to the skill and the degree to which neighbors are willing to act collectively on behalf of their neighborhood. 

The key to a vital neighborhood is action and change sustained over time.  The Office of Neighborhood Vitality works with residents to discover and build on their strengths and to expand their capabilities to improve and manage neighborhood image and outcomes.  When ideas and actions come from within the community, neighborhood improvements are more likely to be sustained.

Role of the Office of Neighborhood Vitality

The City of Garland promotes neighborhood associations as an excellent opportunity for residents to build relationships with one another and community stakeholders, to create a forum for planning and setting goals, and to build social capital. The Office of Neighborhood Vitality provides support for new and existing associations, through organizing assistance, education, grant funding, networking, and marketing resources.

Establish New Neighborhood Associations

Provide guidance, training, and resource materials to individuals who express an interest in forming an association within their neighborhood. Classes are offered through the Garland Neighborhood Management Academy: Nuts and Bolts of a Neighborhood Association & Building Community Block by Block. The Neighborhood Organizing Guide is available on CD by calling 972-205-2108. Staff is available for Technical Assistance at 972-205-3864.

Support Existing Neighborhood Associations

Neighborhood-based associations may register or call 972-205-2108. Assist registered associations by providing ideas and resources materials for neighborhood projects, organizational rejuvenation, and increasing membership and involvement. Develop courses, presentations and workshops through the Garland Neighborhood Management Academy, City Manager's Quarterly Meetings, and Annual Neighborhood Summit that provides association leaders the opportunity to strengthen their organizational skills and association programs.