At today’s League of California Cities Annual Conference & Expo, the city of Moreno Valley received the esteemed 2020 Helen Putnam Award for Excellence in the Cities Counties Schools (CCS) Partnership Intergovernmental Collaboration award for the city’s innovative “After School Education and Safety — Expanded Learning Program.” The award was presented in front of a virtual crowd of more than 1,500 city officials and other conference attendees.
Moreno Valley recognized a need in the community for an afterschool program to support low-income families and students struggling academically. Partnering with local school districts and community organizations, the city developed an afterschool program that is safe, fun, and provides students with academic support. Since 2007, “After School Education and Safety — Expanded Learning Program” has grown to serve more than 46,000 students, broadening their horizons through enrichment activities geared toward preparing them for college and career.
Established in 1982 by the League of California Cities, the Helen Putnam Award for Excellence recognizes outstanding achievements by California's 482 cities. These winning cities have made unique contributions to community residents and businesses, contributions which have resulted in lower costs or more effective delivery of services. The purpose of the Helen Putnam Award for Excellence program is to promote the innovative solutions by city governments.
The award is given annually in 12 categories: The Cities-Counties-Schools (CCS) Partnership Intergovernmental Collaboration; Community Services and Economic Development; Economic Development Through the Arts; Enhancing Public Trust, Ethics, and Community Involvement; Health and Wellness Programs; Housing Programs and Innovations; Internal Administration; League Partners Award for Excellence in City-Business Relations; Planning and Environmental Quality; Public Safety; Public Works, Infrastructure, and Transportation; and the Ruth Vreeland Award for Engaging Youth in City Government.
The 2020 winners, recognized for their outstanding programs, were chosen from 110 submissions.
Founded in 1898, the League of California Cities is an association of California city officials who work together to enhance their knowledge and skills, exchange information, and combine resources so that they may influence policy decisions that affect cities. The League’s mission is to expand and protect local control for cities through education and advocacy to enhance the quality of life for all Californians.
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