These funds allow residents and neighborhood-based organizations to clean up vacant lots in their neighborhoods, provide tutoring and after school programs for children and make playground renovations.

In 1999, Akron Community Foundation joined the City of Akron Department of Planning and Urban Development to collaborate on the Neighborhood Partnership Program. This is a grant program for community revitalization projects initiated and operated by neighborhood organizations. Approximately $220,000 of City of Akron and Akron Community Foundation funds are available to neighborhood based organizations. Unspent funds from the 2003-2004 program year will also be used.

Neighborhood organizations must match the Neighborhood Partnership Program grants with in-kind volunteer services, as well as cash contributions.

Jody Bacon, president of the Akron Community Foundation said, "One of the most important ways the foundation fulfills its mission to improve the quality of life for area residents is by working to make our neighborhoods safer and cleaner, and by providing opportunities for adults and children to participate in wholesome activities located close to their homes."