The Neighborhood Services Department recently was recognized by the National League of Cities and National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials (NBC-LEO) for last year's "Taking It To The Streets" celebration, which showcased diverse Phoenix communities and neighborhood groups.

Neighborhood Services was presented with the national organization's City Cultural Diversity Runner-Up Award, which honors cities for developing and implementing creative programs to promote cultural diversity.

A citywide celebration coordinated in partnership with Fry's Food & Drug Stores and Fry's Marketplace, "Taking It To The Streets" drew approximately 1,500 diverse residents to downtown Phoenix to take part in activities for all ages, music, food, informational booths and workshops.

More than 60 neighborhood groups showcased their improvements efforts in helping make Phoenix a better place to live.

The event included a special video on Rosa Parks, which was followed by a panel discussion about prominent civil rights leaders.