NE Valley Times

Scottsdale residents have the opportunity to delve into the inner workings of their city government through the Scottsdale Government 101 Citizen Academy. The program offers dynamic learning experiences, group discussions, and hands-on activities to enhance participants' understanding of city operations. Mayor David D. Ortega has proclaimed March as Social Work Month, honoring the impactful work of social workers in the community.

Mary Witkofski, Community Assistance manager, beautifully encapsulates the essence of a social worker, stating, "What is a social worker? We are a voice when those who are vulnerable are silenced, a hand for support, and a light to lead the way… The glass is neither half full nor half empty, a social worker always sees the glass as refillable."

In the realm of sustainability, the Scottsdale City Council is gearing up to further explore key sections of the city's draft sustainability plan during an upcoming work study session. This session will focus on crucial priorities such as energy, waste, and extreme heat. The council's dedication to environmental stewardship is evident in their commitment to developing a comprehensive roadmap aligned with the 2035 General Plan.

According to a representative from the Bridge Housing Program, the initiative has seen significant success, boasting an 85% success rate with over 120 individuals finding safe transitional housing as of February 2024. This program aims to provide temporary housing and case management to help individuals transition to independent living situations within 120 days.

In other news, the Scottsdale community is invited to contribute to the greens canned food drive, supporting the Vista del Camino Food Bank in providing healthy options to those in need. Residents can donate items such as green beans, collard greens, spinach, peas, and other canned vegetables at the designated location.

Furthermore, various public meetings and events are scheduled in Scottsdale, offering opportunities for residents to engage with city issues, projects, and activities. The city continues to promote community involvement and awareness through a range of informative programs and services, emphasizing the importance of civic participation and sustainable practices.

Scottsdale remains committed to fostering a vibrant and engaged community, where residents are encouraged to participate in shaping the city's future through active involvement and collaboration.