Lexington was recently presented an All-America City Award by the National Civic League.
The award recognizes communities that leverage civic engagement, collaboration, inclusiveness and innovation to successfully address local issues.
“This award celebrates community-driven efforts that address challenges, and create opportunities,” Mayor Linda Gorton said. “Lexington is proud to be considered an All-America City. We are proud to showcase the great work going on in our city, and to share it with communities across the country.” Lexington was recently named the second best managed city in the country by WalletHub.
The City partnered with Fayette County Public Schools, CivicLex, and Blue Grass Community Foundation to apply for the All-America City award.
“FCPS was thrilled to partner with the City in our pursuit of the All-America City Award,” said Dr. Demetrus Liggins, Schools Superintendent. “This collaboration underscores our commitment to fostering a strong, vibrant community. One of the key promises in our Portrait of a Graduate is that students will graduate not only well-prepared academically, but also as civically engaged individuals. Together, we are creating a future where our students understand the importance of community involvement, and the impact they can have as active citizens.”
A delegation of community stakeholders, including members of the Mayor’s staff, Fayette County Public School employees, including Dr. Liggins, several local high school students, and representatives of CivicLex and Blue Grass Community Foundation attended the awards ceremony last week in Denver.
The winning presentation showcased the work of the Mayor’s Racial Justice and Equality Commission, and the establishment of the Clean Slate Lexington Expungement Clinic and Job Fair, an opportunity for local residents to begin the expungement process for low-level criminal offenses, providing second chances for employment, education, and housing.
Representatives of CivicLex promoted the organization’s mission of enhancing civic life through education, fostering relationships, and enhancing resident participation.
Richard Young, Executive Director of CivicLex, said, “CivicLex is excited for Lexington’s win at the 2024 All-America City Awards, and very proud to be part of the delegation. This award is a meaningful recognition of the work happening all across Lexington to strengthen our community's civic health, and a reminder of why we are committed to ensuring that every resident has the ability to meaningfully participate in the decisions that shape where they live.”
A partnership between Blue Grass Community Foundation and the Lexington Black Prosperity Initiative was featured to promote philanthropy and partnership in addressing pressing community challenges, like historical racial injustices.
Blue Grass Community Foundation President and CEO Lisa Adkins said, “Congratulations to Lexington! Blue Grass Community Foundation and the Lexington Black Prosperity Initiative were honored to be part of the All-America City team. Winning the prestigious 2024 award is a testament to our city’s commitment and innovation. From resident engagement opportunities like “On the Table,” to the meaningful work of the Lexington Black Prosperity Initiative and CivicLex, Lexington is removing barriers to participation in civic life, and creating a stronger sense of belonging and community. By engaging in the essential work of strengthening democracy, we become a place where everyone can have a voice and make a difference.”
The National Civic League’s All-America City Award has celebrated the best in American civic innovation since 1949. Learn more about the National Civic League.
