HomeMy WebLinkAbout07.21.15_Ambassador_Program_ExpansionCITY OF SOUTH BEND
PETE BUTTIGIEG, MAYOR
Office of the Mayor
CONTACT:
Kara Kelly, (574) 235 -5853
kkelly @southbendin.gov
FOR RELEASE: Tuesday, July 21, 2015
CITY EXPANDS DOWNTOWN AMBASSADOR PROGRAM
Building on the success of the Downtown South Bend Ambassador Program, which began in
2006, the City has expanded the program to the Western Avenue and Lincolnway West business
districts. Since early June, three "West Side Main Streets Clean and Safe Ambassadors" have
been providing cleaning, safety, and personnel services along these streets.
"The Ambassador Program has proven to be a key service downtown in support of the
businesses and their customers," says Scott Ford, Executive Director of Community Investment.
"By expanding to the commercial centers along Western and Lincolnway West, the city is
extending this proven approach to promoting economic development and strengthening social
connections."
One goal of the Ambassador Program is to keep these streets free of litter and unwanted
vegetation to create a more hospitable environment for businesses and residents. The
ambassadors also engage with owners, employees, and customers in the areas they serve,
gathering information on the needs of businesses and residents.
"The Ambassadors increase awareness and pride in our neighborhoods," says Common Council
member Karen White (At- Large), a member of the Residential Neighborhood Committee, which
held community meetings that helped lead to the program's expansion. "Kroc Center volunteers
jumped in to assist when they saw the Ambassador team working to remove overgrowth. The
response has been overwhelmingly positive."
The Ambassadors also regularly interact with law enforcement, social service agencies, and other
partners to help maximize each organization's efficiency and effectiveness.
"The Ambassador Program is a strategic partnership that makes efficient use of City resources in
improving neighborhoods," Mayor Pete Buttigieg says. "As their success downtown has proven,
the Ambassadors help strengthen the sense of community for residents and businesses, creating
an atmosphere that helps everyone thrive."