Fayetteville was named a 2023 All-America City by the National Civic League on Saturday at a meeting in Denver.
It is the fourth time the city has won the award, following wins in 1985, 2001 and 2011, according to a city news release.
The award goes to 10 communities across the country each year.
This year, Fayetteville was recognized as a community working to improve the health and well-being of young people, particularly focusing on civic engagement.
“Being designated an All-America City is evidence Fayetteville continues to be a great collaborative, solution-orientated and forward-moving community,” said Mayor Mitch Colvin. “We are being recognized as one of the premier local communities across the country who engage our youth as we continue to make Fayetteville a desirable place to live, work, and recreate, not only today but well into the future.”
In addition to the city’s award, Olivia Cody received the John Par Youth Leadership Award in recognition of her “humility and passion” cited by a Fayetteville-Cumberland Youth Council colleague who nominated her. The award is dedicated to a former NCL president and recognizes extraordinary civic engagement and leadership by a young person.
About the city’s presentation
Fayetteville was one of 19 finalists to compete for the All American award with presentations related to this year’s theme, “Creating Thriving Community Through Youth Engagement.”
City staff members and community leaders described recent work to improve civic education and participation before a jury of nationally recognized civic leaders.
The city’s application highlighted civic engagement and collaboration, a community effort for inclusiveness and creative leveraging of resources to complete projects that have dramatic impact in the community.
Specifically highlighted during the presentation was the work of engaging youth through the Fayetteville-Cumberland Youth Council. Other youth-focused initiatives highlighted were promoting youth participation in voting and policymaking and providing leadership opportunities for youth through the Fayetteville Next Commission.
Additionally, the presentation included Market House repurposing efforts.
Other communities earning 2023 All America awards were Charlotte and Davie County in North Carolina, as well as Gonzales, California; Hampton, Virginia; Mesa, Arizona; Decatur, Georgia; Mount Pleasant, South Carolina; and two Texas cities, Dallas and San Antonio.
For more on Fayetteville’s award, go to the All-America City awards website.
