Durham, North Carolina, is renowned for its vibrant community spirit and active citizen participation. The city provides a variety of programs and initiatives designed to encourage residents to engage with their neighborhoods and local government, fostering a sense of belonging and collective responsibility.
Community Engagement Mini-Grants
The City of Durham offers Community Engagement Mini-Grants to support resident-led projects that aim to build skills, strengthen connections, and create tangible impacts within neighborhoods. These grants provide funding ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 for projects that enhance community life. Residents interested in initiating local projects are encouraged to apply and collaborate with their neighbors to bring their ideas to fruition.
Be Heard Durham
To amplify the voices of historically underrepresented communities, the city has launched ‘Be Heard Durham,’ an online platform that collects and shares community experiences. This initiative aims to influence city decision-making by providing a space for residents to share their thoughts and ideas in small group settings, ensuring diverse perspectives are considered in shaping Durham’s future.
Community Engagement Unit
The Durham Police Department’s Community Engagement Unit (CEU) focuses on addressing the root causes of crime in public housing communities through neighborly visibility, safety education programs, and intervention initiatives. CEU collaborates with the Durham Housing Authority and residents to improve safety and quality of life in these neighborhoods. Additionally, the department offers free, week-long summer camps for youth aged nine to 13, featuring daily field trips and activities that foster positive interactions between police officers and campers.
Neighborhood Improvement Services
The Community Engagement Division of the Neighborhood Improvement Services Department strives to inform, engage, and partner with residents to improve the quality of life in Durham neighborhoods. The division works with residents in different Police and Community (PAC) districts, providing information on programs and services, offering mini-grants for community projects, and hosting events that help engage and train residents to grow community capacity.
Durham Next Community Advisory Council
Launched in September 2025, the Durham Next Community Advisory Council (CAC) represents an innovative approach to community engagement. Comprising over 30 members, the CAC ensures equitable engagement and maintains progress on long-term initiatives by holding regular meetings and ongoing touchpoints about priority projects. The council aims to create a community where all voices are heard and valued.
These initiatives reflect Durham’s commitment to fostering a connected and engaged community. Residents are encouraged to participate in these programs to contribute to the city’s growth and development, ensuring that Durham remains a vibrant and inclusive place for all.