The City of Arlington Neighborhood Services Department announces its Fourth Annual Arlington Neighborhood Academy, which starts Thursday, Sept. 12. Registration begins Monday, July 29.

The ANA is a free, seven-week course designed to foster effectiveness and leadership of neighborhood organizations. The academy offers direction for every stage of neighborhood development and every type of organization, including homeowners associations, neighborhood associations, crime watch or Citizens on Patrol groups. Classes are held on consecutive Thursdays in the Council Briefing Room located on the third floor of City Hall, 101 W. Abram St. The registration deadline is Friday, August 30.

Sessions include:

The Arlington Story
Building Durable Neighborhood Organizations
Developing Neighborhood Plans That Work
Accessing City Services I
Accessing City Services II
Planning Special Events and Finding Funding
Graduation Ceremony and Celebration of Neighborhoods

The academy concludes Thursday, Oct. 24 with a graduation ceremony. Certificates will be presented to participants who complete the academy. The graduation ceremony will also include a Celebration of Neighborhoods. Arlington Mayor Elzie Odom will present this year’s winners of the Mayor’s Awards for Neighborhood Excellence.

Register early. Space is limited. For a brochure or more information about the Arlington Neighborhood Academy, contact the Neighborhood Services Department/Office of Neighborhood Initiatives at 817-459-5864 or register online at www.ci.arlington.tx.us.