Three Projects, One Stronger Northside
Three small grants are about to make a big difference across Birmingham's Northside, turning local ideas into practical improvements that help neighbors connect, stay active, and build healthier communities together.
Small Grants, Big Neighborhood Wins
Through the Cancer PREEMpT mini-grant program, three Birmingham neighborhood projects have been awarded up to $5,000 to improve health, safety, and community connections across the Northside.
The funding comes through the Cancer Prevention through Enhanced Environment Coalition, part of the University of Alabama at Birmingham's CARES Center, and supports resident-led projects that make neighborhoods more connected while addressing environmental factors linked to long-term cancer prevention.
Each project tackles community wellness from a different angle, showing that healthier living goes well beyond doctor's appointments. Sometimes it starts with better communication, safer sidewalks, or a place to grow tomatoes alongside your neighbors.
In Norwood, grant funding will support the installation of a digital community kiosk that provides real-time updates on neighborhood meetings, city events, public safety alerts, and local resources. Instead of wondering what's happening around town, residents will have an easy way to stay informed and connected.
Growing Community, One Project at a Time
Downtown Birmingham will use its grant to pilot quick-build pedestrian safety improvements that make walking easier and more inviting. The project focuses on creating safer streets while encouraging residents and visitors to spend more time on foot, helping strengthen connections between people and public spaces.
Meanwhile, the Evergreen Roots Community Garden will transform a vacant lot into a thriving neighborhood gathering place. Plans include raised garden beds, fresh produce, gardening education, and accessible spaces where neighbors can meet, learn, and spend time together. It's the kind of project that grows vegetables and stronger community ties at the same time.
While each initiative serves a different neighborhood, the benefits are expected to extend well beyond their immediate locations. In addition to Norwood, Evergreen, and downtown Birmingham, surrounding communities including Central City, Druid Hills, Fountain Heights, and other Northside neighborhoods are expected to feel the positive impact as these projects take shape.
Taken together, the grants highlight how relatively modest investments can create meaningful improvements in everyday life. Whether it's sharing information more effectively, making streets safer for pedestrians, or turning an empty lot into a community gathering place, these projects all share one goal: helping create neighborhoods where it's easier to live healthier, stay connected, and build stronger communities for years to come.
Looking for more organizations making a difference across the state? Head to https://www.guidetoalabama.com/community-organizations.