Ten years ago, on September 14, 2009, the city of Avondale became the nation’s first official Kids at Hope City.
At that time, the Avondale City Council signed a resolution demonstrating a commitment to learn and share a set of principles and practices that support the success of all children, without exception. This commitment became Avondale’s cultural framework designed to engage entire communities to support success for all children, no exceptions.
Avondale Mayor Kenn Weise will issue a proclamation recognizing the city’s commitment to being a Kids at Hope City for the past decade.
“Kids at Hope is honored to recognize and celebrate the 10th anniversary of the city of Avondale’s designation as our country’s first Kids at Hope City,” said Rick Miller, founder and executive director of Kids at Hope. “A Kids at Hope City believes and practices the belief that all children and youth are capable of success, no exceptions, and models that commitment so others can emulate its importance.
“From the mayor, city council and local leaders, the city of Avondale understands that helping children navigate the opportunities and challenges of life is a community responsibility.”
Over the past 10 years, the city has had a considerable number of accomplishments. These include the recruitment and involvement of nine local schools. The city has also hosted a multitude of trainings, which trained over 500 adults to be certified “Hopeologists.” Several “Time Traveler Summits” were coordinated and have impacted more than 31,800 local school students. The city also hosted several events annually, including Kids at Hope celebrations at a local Peter Piper Pizza.
To learn more about Kids at Hope programs and initiatives in Avondale, contact dgardner@avondaleaz.gov or 623-333-2723. To find out more about Kids at Hope national initiatives, visit kidsathope.org.