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Dedicated to building a safer and stronger community, members of Men Against Gun Violence recently rolled up their sleeves to clean neighborhood alleys, helping create cleaner, safer spaces for residents and families. Their efforts not only improved the appearance of the community but also demonstrated the power of service, teamwork, and neighborhood pride.
Thank you to Men Against Gun Violence for taking action and making a positive impact in our district. Your commitment to improving our community does not go unnoticed!
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Have you spotted someone going above and beyond in the district? Whether it's volunteering, beautifying the community, supporting a local event, or simply helping others, we want to recognize those making a positive difference.
Know someone making a positive impact in our community? Send us your photos of individuals or organizations "caught doing good" for a chance to be featured in an upcoming newsletter. Help us celebrate the people who are making our district a better place and inspire others through their example.
Submit photos to: Taylore.Bass@louisvilleky.gov
 It was an honor to celebrate the unveiling of the honorary street sign for Rev. Deacon James and M. Annette Mandley- Turner at the intersection of 32nd Street and West Broadway.
 California Day 2026!
Thank you to the organizers, community members, partners, volunteers, vendors and supporters who came out and helped make the day a success!
 August 29, 2026 was a special day for the Smoketown community filled with celebration and progress at the Smoketown block party and ribbon cutting celebrating the Smoketown Community Land Trust's closing of its first home.
  
 
 
 
Baxter Community Center
  
 Calling All Vendors & Performers:
Be Part of La Villa Lou!
 Are you a business, food vendor, artist, or performer interested in being part of the La Villa Lou Festival? We invite you to apply now and join us in creating a vibrant celebration of Hispanic culture, community, and local talent. Use the QR codes on the flyers to complete your vendor or performer application and secure your place at this exciting event.
La Villa Lou Festival will take place on Sunday, October 11 | 12:00–9:00 PM at Preston Plaza, 4132 Outer Loop. This free, family-friendly celebration will feature live music, cultural performances, food, art, vendors, and kids’ activities. All are welcome!
Apply to participate, at https://louisvilleky.gov/government/office-immigrant-affairs-office-strategic-initiatives/la-villa-lou-festival
REACH Small Business Resource Fair:
Connect, Grow, and Reach Higher
 Saturday, September 12 | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Whether you’re exploring a business idea, launching your first venture, or growing an established business, the REACH Small Business Resource Fair is an opportunity to connect with local organizations and service providers ready to help. Discover valuable resources, support, and opportunities for you and your business, and build connections to help you reach higher and move your business forward. The event is open to everyone and will take place at Wesley House Community Center, 5114 Preston Hwy, Louisville, KY 40213.
Learn about Reach at, REACH - for Small Business Growth | LouisvilleKY.gov
Learn, Connect & Speak: Language Café
 Thursdays | September 3 to November 19 | 5:30 - 6:30 pm
Join us this fall for Language Café, a free, welcoming opportunity to practice and improve your language skills while meeting new people. Sessions will be held at Bellarmine University, with snacks and drinks provided. Choose from English, Spanish, Swahili, French, Arabic, or Japanese. Register today and discover the joy of connecting through language!
Multilingual flyers for the English Conversation Table: Somali Kinyarwanda Spanish Swahili
Celebrate Latin American Culture at the Zoo!
 September 19, 2026 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Get ready for a day filled with culture, community, and fun at the Louisville Zoo! On September 19, celebrate the richness and diversity of Latin America with festive music, vibrant art, community resources, and activities for the whole family. Explore the Zoo through a virtual scavenger hunt and discover fascinating animals from across Latin America along the way. Best of all, the celebration is FREE with Zoo admission or a Louisville Zoo membership!
Healthy Aging:
The Continuous Learners Workshop
 The Continuous Learners Workshop is a special September event for Healthy Aging Month.
Wednesday, September 30th
The Edison Center
701 W. Ormsby Ave
10:00am-12:00 noon
It offers a fun group class, gentle movement session, and expert talks. Seniors learn new information, meet friendly neighbors, and find fresh ways to stay active and happy in mind and body.
Our Speakers:
- Biggers Insurance Group:
CSNP 101: Medicare and Chronic Conditions
- Office for Aging and Disabled Citizens:
Healthy Living as we Age
- Office of Dementia Services:
Dementia Friends Kentucky
- Additional Table Vendors with Resources
Light Refreshments will be served
To Register, Call 502.574.5092 or email Alli HERE
Complete the Community Health Needs Assessment
 Your feedback on the Community Health Needs Assessment can help us better understand the health needs and challenges facing your community.
You response can help identify barriers such as:
- Unmet Community Health Care Needs
- Medical, Dental & Mental Health Service Barriers
- Health Care Workforce Shortages
Who Should Participate:
- Community Members
- Patients & Caregivers
- Health Care Providers
- Public Health Professionals
- Community Organizations
- Local Leaders & Advocates
Click HERE to take the Survey
Annual County Walk Challenge
 The Annual County Walk Challenge is a friendly competition between counties in Kentucky to see which one can get the most combined steps in the month of September.
How it Works:
Kentucky counties are divided into three categories according to size. The county with the most steps in its category wins the challenge and receives a certificate that will be presented at the Kentucky Coalition for Healthy Communities (KCHC) meeting in October.
Participants can choose to walk individually, with families or as a community.
Individuals and teams are welcome to walk their way to better health while socializing, building relationships, increasing county pride and improving the health of the community.
Log Your Steps:
Click HERE to log your steps. The deadline to submit steps is October 2nd
Contact:
Riley.hanks@louisville.edu or heather.shaw@louisville.edu
Brain Health Retreat
 Friday, September 11th
10:00am-2:30pm EST (Doors Open at 9:50am)
Sawyer Hayes Community Center
2201 Lakeland Rd
Check-in begins at 9:50 a.m.
Visit with exhibitors from 10 to 11 a.m. - brain health information and screenings
Keynote Presentation: The Mindful Brain: How Small Moments Shape Lifelong Health Speaker: Shelly Sowell, M.Ed, LPCC, Mindfulness Counselor and Coach
Other presentations will include: nutrition and sleep
During registration, you will have the opportunity to pick a break-out group from the below:
• 30 minutes of outdoor walking (weather permitting-please wear appropriate clothes and shoes that you can comfortably walk outside in for 30 minutes)
• 30 minutes of brain games.
Who should attend? This program is for individuals of all ages who are interested in understanding brain health and learning actionable steps to support cognitive wellness across the lifespan.
Registration is REQUIRED, call 502.629.1234 (option 4) or Click HERE
Music in the Park
 Thursday, September 17th
11am-1pm
Petersburg Park
Live Music, Lunch (while Supplies last), Ice Cream and Health Vendors for ages 55+
Bring your own lawn chair!
Volunteers Needed
 Help your neighbors by volunteering for Project Warm's Annual BLITZ weatherization event.
Volunteers work in teams of 3-6 to put up weatherization plastic on windows in homes of elderly and/or disabled participants.
All teams must have a designated Team Leader who is age 18+ and has a valid drivers license.
Team members age 14+ welcome.
Call 502.636.9276 to register
The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMPHW) continues to identify mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus in neighborhoods throughout Jefferson County. Recent surveillance testing detected virus-positive mosquitoes in nine additional areas, underscoring that West Nile virus is not confined to one part of Louisville and that all residents should take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
While most people infected with West Nile virus do not become seriously ill, some individuals can develop severe symptoms. The best way to reduce your risk is to prevent mosquito bites and eliminate mosquito breeding sites around your home.
"Mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus can be found in any neighborhood. Taking a few simple precautions can help protect you, your family, and your community," said Connie Mendel, Director of LMPHW and Chief Health Strategist.
Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites
Residents can reduce their risk of infection by taking the following steps:
- Use an insect repellent registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) when spending time outdoors.
- Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks whenever possible.
- Take extra precautions during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Consider treating clothing and outdoor gear with permethrin, following all product instructions.
Help Reduce Mosquitoes Around Your Home
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. To help prevent breeding, residents should inspect their property at least once a week and:
- Empty standing water from flowerpots, buckets, pet bowls, birdbaths, gutters, pool covers, and other containers.
- Dispose of old tires and other items that can collect rainwater.
- Repair damaged window and door screens to help keep mosquitoes outside.
Local West Nile Virus Activity
Jefferson County reported 12 human cases of West Nile virus in 2025. To date, one human case has been reported in 2026.
LMPHW may conduct mosquito control fogging in additional areas when surveillance detects increased mosquito activity or identifies mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus.
Stay Informed and Stay Protected
As mosquito season continues, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and take simple preventive measures to protect themselves and their families. Community participation is one of the most effective tools in reducing mosquito populations and limiting the spread of West Nile virus.
- Visit the department's website to see current mosquito spraying areas and maps and prevention resources.
- For fogging updates call the Mosquito Fogging Hotline at 502-574-6641.
- Report mosquito concerns to Metro311 by dialing 311 or 502-574-5000.
- To be alerted by text message when mosquito fogging occurs in your neighborhood, opt-in for LENSAlerts with your cell phone. Text “LENSALERT” to 67283 to start receiving fogging notifications in your area.
Learn the signs, save a life:
Join a free suicide prevention presentation on Sept. 16
 September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness, share resources, and promote open conversations about mental health.
"Talk Saves Lives: An Introduction to Suicide Prevention" is a community-based presentation that explores the scope of suicide, the latest research on prevention, and steps individuals can take to help prevent suicide. The free virtual event will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 16.
Participants will learn about common risk factors and warning signs associated with suicide, as well as practical ways to help keep themselves and others safe.
Presented in collaboration with Mental Health Lou, this free event is designed for parents and caregivers of middle and high school students as we observe Suicide Prevention Month. Join us for an important conversation focused on supporting the mental health and well-being of our young people.
use this link to register for this informative event.
 Navigating health insurance can be overwhelming, but Family Health Centers' certified kynectors are here to help at no cost. Whether you need help renewing coverage, updating your information, understanding an insurance notice, or exploring options after losing coverage, expert assistance is available.
To make the process easier, residents are encouraged to bring:
- Identification
- Social Security cards or immigration documents
- Income verification such as recent pay stubs
- Information about household members including names, birthdates, and incomes.
Residents can receive free, one-on-one support at multiple Family Health Centers locations throughout Louisville.
To schedule an appointment, call 502-772-8182 or visit this website for more information.
KYTC: Muhammad Ali Boulevard
and
Brook Street under I-65 closed
 (The following is an update from KYTC and the I-65 Central Corridor project team: Posted Aug. 25, 2025 on the I65CentralCorridor.com.)
Wednesday’s temporary closure of Broadway under I-65 as part of the I-65 Central Corridor project is postponed until later this week, at the earliest. An updated date will be shared when available.
As a reminder, Muhammad Ali Boulevard under I-65 is now closed to through traffic. This is a long-term closure and a signed detour is in place. Muhammad Ali Boulevard has been temporarily converted to two-way traffic for local access to enter and exit the UofL Health parking garage. The nearby section of Brook Street under I-65 is also closed.
 Staying Informed
Project information and updates can be found at I65CentralCorridor.com. While on the site, users can sign up to have project and traffic updates delivered to their inboxes or by text to their phones. Project updates are shared on KYTC District 5 (D5) Facebook and X pages.
Park(ing) Day transforms downtown parking spaces
On Friday, Sept. 18, Louisville will join communities around the world in celebrating Park(ing) Day, an annual event that transforms curbside parking spaces into temporary parks, gathering spots, art installations and other creative public spaces.
The Louisville Downtown Partnership (LDP) and the Louisville Metro Department of Transportation (LouDOT) are partnering to host this year's event in Downtown Louisville. Local businesses, organizations and community members are invited to reimagine on-street parking spaces along the Main Street corridor and on 4th, 5th and 6th streets as vibrant, people-centered spaces. Additional locations may also be considered.
Park(ing) Day highlights the value of safer, greener and more accessible streets while encouraging residents to think differently about how public spaces can foster connection, creativity and community.
To support participants, LDP and LouDOT will coordinate permitting, traffic management and parking meter costs. Participants will be responsible for providing materials, setting up and removing their installations, and staffing their spaces throughout the event.
Whether you create a mini park, public art display, reading nook, outdoor seating area or another interactive experience, Park(ing) Day is an opportunity to showcase your creativity and help transform downtown parking spaces into places for people.
Learn more, Park(ing) Day - Louisville Downtown Partnership
Waste Tire Collection Event October 1-3
Old tires may seem harmless, but when they are dumped illegally or left outdoors, they can create significant problems for neighborhoods and the environment.
Louisville Metro residents will have a convenient opportunity to dispose of unwanted tires during the Waste Tire Collection Event, Oct. 1-3. This special event helps keep tires out of vacant lots, roadways, waterways and neighborhoods while providing a safe and responsible disposal option.
Proper tire disposal plays an important role in protecting public health. Tires easily collect rainwater, creating ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. These pests are more than just a nuisance. Mosquitoes can spread diseases, including West Nile virus, which has been detected in Louisville Metro. A single tire can hold enough water to support hundreds of mosquito larvae.
Discarded tires can also harm the environment by contributing to illegal dumping sites, trapping standing water, creating fire hazards and increasing long-term cleanup costs for communities. Tire fires are particularly dangerous because they are difficult to extinguish and can release harmful pollutants into the air and surrounding environment.
Whether you're cleaning out your garage, tackling a property improvement project or disposing of a few worn-out tires, recycling unwanted tires helps protect public health, reduce environmental impacts and keep Louisville clean and beautiful.
Who Can Participate?
The event is open to any Kentucky resident or business, except tire retailers, scrap and salvage yards, and recycling facilities. There is no limit on the number of tires accepted.
Help keep our community healthier, safer and cleaner by taking advantage of this free disposal opportunity.
For year-round tire recycling options, Louisville Metro residents can also recycle up to four passenger tires at no charge at the Waste Reduction Center or at a Pop-Up Drop-Off event. Businesses may recycle tires at the Waste Reduction Center, but there is a fee.
Learn more at, Waste Tire Collection Event | LouisvilleKY.gov
Is this a recycling week?
Not sure if it's a recycling week? We've got you covered. The graphic below shows the remaining collection weeks for 2026, making it easy to see at a glance when to set out your recycling cart.
For the easiest and most reliable reminders, we encourage residents to download the Recycle Coach app. Recycle Coach provides personalized collection schedules based on your address and can send reminders directly to your phone before collection day. The app is also the best way to receive the most up-to-date information about service changes. If collection schedules are affected by severe weather or other unexpected events, our team can send push notifications directly to those affected.
If you prefer not to use the app on your phone but would still like a more personalized version, visit Louisvilleky.gov/RecycleCoach and enter your address to view your collection schedule. You can choose "Export Calendar" to add collection dates to your digital calendar or "Download PDF" to create a printable schedule for your home.
Learn more at Recycle Coach disposal calendar, alerts and more | LouisvilleKY.gov
  A Time for Peace: Faith-Community Events this Spring/Summer
A Time for Peace brings faith and community together in trusted community spaces to offer healing, connection, FREE food, and positive activities for all ages in neighborhoods impacted by gun violence.
We invite you to join us—and bring someone with you—as we create A Time for Peace across our city.
Saturday, September 12th, 12-4pm
Moore Temple Church of God in Christ
2315 W Broadway
Neighborhood Wellness Day
Free health screenings, activities & resources for all ages!
Saturday, September 19th, 11am-2pm
Project Restoring Our Community (ROC)
2105 Buechel Bank Road
Community Day 2026 Festival
Family fun for everyone with FREE food, kids zone, giveaways, live performances, health info, & family resources for all!
Saturday, September 19th, 12-4pm
1st Gethsemane Avenue
Algonquin-Parkhill Community Day
Fun-filled day of activities focused on faith, family & community growth. Join us with your friends and family!
Saturday, September 26th, 12-4pm
High Calling Church of God in Christ
Central Park Amphitheater, 1340 S 4th Street
Gospel Harvest
A day of faith, fellowship & community, with food, games & music for the whole family. Come expecting a powerful movement from the Holy Spirit!
 DATE CHANGE!
We've moved our annual Violence Reduction Summit to November 6. Look for more details on our events page soon!
 
 Volunteers Needed
Help us serve our neighbors by volunteering just a few hours each Thursday!
Retail Food Pickup Driver
- Pick up donated food from Clifton Kroger
- Thursdays, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- Reliable vehicle and valid driver's license required
Food Pantry Check-In Volunteer
- Assist clients with computer check-in
- Thursdays, 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Interested? Contact Courtney Goff at UCHMLouisville@gmail.com or call (502) 893-0346.
UCHM 60-Plus Senior Program – September Activities
Join us for activities at 10:30 a.m., followed by lunch at 11:15 a.m. and bingo at approximately 11:45 a.m.
- Sept. 1: Bloomin’ Moves with Jeannde of the Elderbloom Trio
- Sept. 3: Sing-Along with Karen
- Sept. 8: Morning Bingo with Shirleymae from Seniors Helping Seniors
- Sept. 10: Morning Bingo at 10 a.m. and a special performance by Curtis Williams from noon–1 p.m.
- Sept. 15: Aunt Sally Crafts and Nutrition Education
Chair yoga is offered every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. On Wednesdays, join strength and resistance training with Joe or the all-ages crochet group at 10 a.m.
We will also honor our July, August, and September birthdays!
Sponsor the UCHM 60+ Program
Does your business serve customers over age 60? Do you know an older adult who could benefit from fun activities and meaningful connections? Does your church or community group support older adults?
If so, please consider sponsoring UCHM’s 60+ Senior Program. Sponsors can support refreshments, activities, entertainment, birthday celebrations, crafts, bingo prizes, or wellness programs. Sponsors receive recognition in our newsletter, on social media, and during the sponsored activity.
Stop by on a Tuesday or Thursday between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. to see our active and welcoming group in action!
To learn more, contact Monique Shaughnessy at SeniorCoord@uchmlouky.org or (502) 893-0346.
Two Opportunities to Visit UCHM
Come see how United Crescent Hill Ministries serves and supports our neighbors!
Community Coffee & Tour
Wednesday, September 9 | 8:30 a.m.–noon
Stop by for coffee, tour our facility, and learn more about UCHM’s programs and community impact.
Sip, See & Support
Thursday, September 10 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Enjoy refreshments, meet members of the UCHM community, tour our facility, and discover ways to support our mission.
United Crescent Hill Ministries
150 State Street, Louisville, KY 40206
 
  Understand your home’s major mechanical systems, including furnaces, water heaters, and exterior HVAC units. Learn maintenance tasks that can save you thousands. Giveaways include CO2 detectors, coil cleaner, and maintenance checklists.
Date: September 12th, 2026
Time: 9 to 11 AM
Location: Habitat’s Workshop, Volunteer Entrance #1
1620 Columbia Street, Louisville, KY 40203
Register, here.
 Basic Tools Safety & Skills
Learn the best practices for using tools such as saws and impact drivers. Learn the tips and tricks for doing the most with the tools you have. Practice your tool skills through hands-on instruction under the guidance of Habitat staff and an experienced contractor.
Date: September 12th, 2026
Time: 12 to 3 PM
Location: Habitat’s Workshop, Volunteer Entrance #1
1620 Columbia Street, Louisville, KY 40203
Register, here!
 Weatherization & Insulation
Learn how to properly install insulation, seal windows, apply plastic, and take other steps to reduce energy costs, and improve home comfort. Giveaways include weatherization kits (LG&E account number must be provided during registration) and kitchen fire extinguisher.
Date: October 10th, 2026
Time: 9 to 11 PM
Location: Habitat’s Workshop, Volunteer Entrance #1
1620 Columbia Street, Louisville, KY 40203
Register, here!
 Outdoor Holiday Decorations Workshop
Create simple wooden outdoor holiday decor such as snowmen and Christmas trees. Learn how to safely use saws, impact drivers, and paint to build a finished decoration you can take home.
Date: October 10th, 2026
Time: 12 to 3 PM
Location: Habitat’s Workshop, Volunteer Entrance #1
1620 Columbia Street, Louisville, KY 40203
Register, here.
 Grab a magnifying glass and get ready to look for clues this Fall Break at the Frazier! During our History’s Mysteries Fall Break Camp, become a junior detective, and try to uncover the truth of the past as we explore tales of spies, lost civilizations, hidden treasure, and more! Make hands-on arts and crafts, explore the Frazier’s newest exhibits, and develop your detective skills.
This case won’t crack itself and we need your help!
Spots are limited, so sign up now for Camp Frazier to join the investigation.
History's Mysteries Fall Break Camp
Monday, September 28–Friday, October 2
Frazier Kentucky History Museum
Drop-off: 8:45–9:30 a.m.
Pickup: 3:30–4 p.m.
Open to Grades: 1–5
Cost: $65/day ($55/day for members) (ask about our sibling discount!)
Register here, https://www.fraziermuseum.org/calendar/fall-break-camp-historys-mysteries
 
Explore, Discover, and Learn for Free
If your family receives SNAP or WIC benefits, you may be eligible for a FREE one-year Community Access Membership to the Kentucky Science Center.
Enjoy unlimited visits to hands-on exhibits, exciting science demonstrations, and interactive experiences that make learning fun for visitors of all ages.
Visit www.kysciencecenter.org/cam/ to learn more and apply.
To learn more or apply, visit: www.kysciencecenter.org/cam/
Join the 28-Day Anti-Racism Challenge Beginning October 2
We’re gearing up for the next 28-Day Anti-Racism Challenge (ARC), which begins on October 2.
Many of us have participated in health or fitness challenges designed to help build positive habits. Whether it's exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, or making healthier food choices, the goal is the same: to create lasting change that continues long after the challenge ends.
The ARC follows a similar approach. Through daily learning and reflection, participants are encouraged to raise awareness, deepen understanding, and strengthen their commitment to anti-racism. Our hope is that these actions become more than a challenge, becoming part of our everyday lives and helping create a more inclusive and equitable community for all.
We invite you to join us on this journey and make anti-racism part of the new normal.
To learn more and sign up, go to listenlearnact.org.
 Tree Week celebrates the roles trees play in our lives through creative, informative, and fun-filled activities and events for people of all ages, hosted by local organizations, businesses, and individuals. From October 9th-18th over 50 events will take place across Jefferson County including; Tree ID hikes, giveaways, workshops, nature based arts and crafts, yoga in the park, tree trivia, and more!
To learn more or register your very own tree event visit https://treeslouisville.org/tree-week-home-page
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