The City of Hartford is one of the more creative administrators of CDBG funds in Connecticut according to the HUD Connecticut State Office's Raymond Jordan. The opening ceremony, called "A Patchwork of American Life," included a poster contest, youth speakers, and performers representing organizations that receive Community Development Block Grant funds from the City of Hartford. Held at Hartford City Hall, the ceremony was organized by the City's Office of Grants Management and opened by Ms. Deborah Bush, City of Hartford Grants Administrator.

Hartford Mayor Eddie Perez spoke at the event and gave his strong support for HUD's Community Development Block Grant program. The mayor also read a proclamation honoring National Community Development Week and spoke about the tremendous difference the CDBG program has made for the City and its residents.

Hartford Action Plan on Infant Health Breaking the Cycle of Teenage Pregnancy - The event featured a number of Hartford's innovative programs and the young people that participate or benefit from them. Irena Kaci, a senior at Bulkeley High School, shared her experiences as a program participant and counselor for fifth grade students in the Hartford School system.

Southend Knightriders Youth Center, Inc - Craig Yennie, a freshman at Trinity College, spoke about the life-changing difference the Center made for him. He has been involved with the center since he was 11 years old, and said that his experiences with the youth center made it possible for him to attend Trinity College - where he is studying to become a biochemist.

Left: Organized Parents Make A Difference - Multi-Discipline After School Program: Kinder College - Kindergarten students from the Annie Fisher School program read an original poem and Michael Hanson, a 4th grader at the school, presented the Mayor and City Council with a token of the students' appreciation for supporting their program. Right: The Hartford Children's Theatre - Children used dance and drama skills to perform two original works of art: "The Brightest Star" and "The Tender Touch of Love."

The CDBG program is one of HUD's core programs. While it is celebrated during National Community Development Week, as it was in the City of Hartford and scores of other cities across the nation, it is praised by cities and counties throughout the year in every part of the nation. Because it is based on a flexible approach to community and economic development and encourages creative local partnerships, CDBG has helped thousands of communities improve the quality of life in low income neighborhoods, and give the residents of those neighborhoods - young and old alike - a chance for a brighter future.