Civics 101

Thursday 18

CITY OF AUSTIN "HOW TO HELP" PORTAL Looking for the right way to help your community during the pandemic? Or do you have a volunteer opportunity that you want to list? Visit the city's "How to Help" portal to make a match. The portal includes ways to help from home, donation drives, and active community engagement opportunities. Ongoing Online. howtohelpaustin.givepulse.com.

YMCA EARLY LEARNING READINESS PROGRAM A free community program for qualifying low-income families that focuses on preparing children ages 2-4 for school, while providing their caregivers with the tools to facilitate their child’s development. Classes are offered twice a week in English and Spanish and last one hour. English: Mondays & Wednesdays, 9am; Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:30am. Spanish: Mondays & Wednesdays, 10:30am; Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9am. Online. Free. austinymca.org.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING See agenda for details. 10am. Videoconference. www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live.

BIZOPEN: COMMERCIAL PROPERTY REQUIREMENTS WEBINAR The webinar's objective is to help small-business owners with navigating the city’s development and permitting process. 10-11am. Online. Free (registration required). www.austintexas.gov/smallbiz.

"THE PATH TO RACIAL EQUITY" SERIES A coalition of 17 Central Texas orgs hosts this six-part virtual series examining different issues surrounding racial inequity in Austin. The series – which runs every Thursday, 5:30-6:30pm, between Jan. 14-Feb. 18 – aims to offer practical steps we can all take in our communities toward racial equity and opportunity. See website for schedule and guest lineup. Jan. 14-Feb. 18. Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm Online. Free (registration required). www.ctcracialequity.org.

THE SECRET LIVES OF DINOSAURS Tune into Travis Audubon's virtual speaker series for a presentation by UT professor Julia Clarke about a presentation about the evolution of traits we think of as distinctly avian. 7-8pm. Online. Free. www.travisaudubon.org.

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Monday 22

CITY OF AUSTIN HOME REPAIR PROGRAM The city has announced an infusion of $1 million to its home repair program for low- to moderate-income homeowners to assist with repairs needed due to damage from Winter Storm Uri. Get details and apply online. Ongoing Online. www.austintexas.gov/homerepairs.

Tuesday 23

FEMA ASSISTANCE FOR WINTER STORM URI Travis County homeowners and renters affected by winter storm Uri may now apply for disaster assistance with FEMA. More info available here. Ongoing Online. www.disasterassistance.gov.

THE DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT EQUITY SURVEY Share your experiences accessing the Development Services Department's services and working with the city in general. Survey answers are anonymous and results will be shared with Austin's Equity Office. Deadline: March 15 Online. www.austintexas.gov/department/development-services.

COLD WEATHER INFORMATION AND RESOURCES In response to winter storm Uri, the city of Austin is partnering with multiple governmental and public agencies to provide certain services. Find available resources for water and meal distribution, emergency repairs, ways to help, and more on the city's website. Ongoing Online. www.austintexas.gov/weatherinfo.

PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING Among the board's new business is an update on the Zilker Train, as well as the design scenario for the Dougherty Arts Center Replacement Project. 6pm. Videoconference. www.austintexas.gov.

Wednesday 24

#BLACKLIVESMATTER SURVIVOR PEER SUPPORT GROUP Led by the SAFE Alliance, one of Austin's nonprofits working to end sexual violence, abuse, and harassment. Email for details. Last Wednesdays, 5:30-7pm Online. [email protected], www.safeaustin.org.

Thursday 25

FEDERAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE Homeowners and renters who suffered damage due to the winter storm may apply for assistance from FEMA. If you have insurance and are applying for disaster assistance, you must also file a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible; if insurance does not cover all your damage, you may be eligible for federal assistance. Take photos and keep receipts for related expenses, and apply online or call 800/621-3362. Online. www.disasterassistance.gov.

CITY OF AUSTIN RECOVERY RESOURCES Looking for info on water distribution, code complaints, or anything related to fallout from the winter storm? Check the city's site for the most up-to-date information. www.austintexas.gov/weatherinfo.

FOUNDATION COMMUNITIES EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FUND It will take some time to fully recover from the recent storm. You can help by contributing to Foundation Communities' fund providing direct relief for food, water, rent, medical assistance, and more. www.foundcom.org/get-involved/donate-emergency-fund.

CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL CALLED MEETING City staff will provide updates on last week's severe winter storm, after which Council will vote on several items related to recovery and relief efforts. See agenda for more details, and don't miss the Chronicle's meeting recap online and in next week's print issue. 10am. ATXN. www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live.

Ongoing

YWCA GREATER AUSTIN WARMLINE Call 512/548-9922 for support amidst the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. Mondays-Thursdays, 9am-8pm; Fridays, 9-5pm; Saturdays, noon-4pm Citywide. ywcaaustin.org.

LEGALLINE Call 512/472-8303 for free legal advice concerning family law, criminal matters, traffic problems, consumer issues, landlord/tenant issues, and employment law. Attorneys who are bilingual (English/Spanish) are also available. First Tuesdays, 5:30-7:30pm 512/472-8303. Free. [email protected], austinlrs.org.

DRIVE-THROUGH VACCINE CLINIC VOLUNTEERS If you're interested in volunteering at Travis County's drive-through vaccine clinic at COTA, sign up here. Clinic open: Fridays-Sundays Travis County Expo Center, 7311 Decker. centraltxvaccs.org.

AUSTIN TRANSIT PARTNERSHIP ADVISORY COMMITTEES APPLICATIONS Applications are now open to join the following committees: Engineering, Architecture, and Construction; Finance and Risk; and Planning, Sustainability, Equity, and DBE Advisory. The governing body of the agency created to build out Project Connect, ATP will oversee funding, designing, and implementing the $7.1 billion mass transit overhaul. Ongoing Online. atptx.org.

AUSTIN PARKS AND RECREATION SUMMER CAMP LOTTERY REGISTRATION Applicants can register for a random lottery drawing for limited in-person camps. In-person camp costs $120 per week with $20 due upon acceptance of lottery spot. April 19-May 16 Online. www.austintexas.gov/parksonline.

WINTER STORM REVIEW TASK FORCE SEEKS PUBLIC COMMENT Share your experiences and recommendations related to Winter Storm Uri, which will then be incorporated into a final report for City Council. Provide feedback online via the SpeakUp Austin website, or to speak remotely at the task force meetings, call (512/974-6339) or email no later than noon the day prior to the meetings on May 14 & 28 and June 11 & 23. Ongoing Remote. [email protected], www.speakupaustin.org/winter-storm-uri-community-feedback.

I-35 CAPITAL EXPRESS NORTH PUBLIC HEARING Review the draft environmental assessment and the recommended alternative for improvements to I-35 from SH 45 N. to Hwy. 290 E. Through June 10 Online. capexnorth.mobility35openhouse.com.

AUSTIN RESOURCE RECOVERY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN SURVEY Share your feedback on ARR reaching its zero waste goals to help guide departmental efforts to measure Austin’s zero waste progress. Deadline: June 1 Online. www.austintexas.gov/department/austin-resource-recovery.

PALM DISTRICT PLANNING SURVEY Austin’s Palm District is located on the eastern edge of Downtown between I-35 and Trinity St., running from Rainey St. to 15th St. The city's Housing and Planning Department seeks public input on the future of the area as it develops the final Palm District Small Area Plan. Explore the area, take a survey, and ask questions on the city’s project website. Ongoing Online. [email protected], www.speakupaustin.org/palmdistrict.

SHOAL CREEK AUDIO WALKING TOUR SURVEY The Shoal Creek Conservancy is seeking public input to determine which stories to include in its free, self-guided tour along Shoal Creek. Deadline: June 7 Online. [email protected], www.shoalcreekconservancy.org.

TCSO VICTIM SERVICES VOLUNTEERS The Travis County Sheriff's Office Victim Services Unit needs volunteers to offer immediate assistance to victims of various criminal and crisis circumstances. Those interested must complete a training program from July 31-Aug. 28 (Mondays, virtual, 6-9pm; Thursdays, virtual, 6-9pm; Saturdays, in-person, 9am-5pm). Ongoing Online. www.tcsheriff.org.

2021-22 BUDGET ENGAGEMENT The Budget Office’s website includes explanatory videos in English and Spanish about the city’s FY 2021-22 budgeting process, as well as a short survey for residents to share their thoughts on spending priorities. The mayor and City Council are scheduled to adopt Austin’s FY 2021-22 budget and tax rate between Aug. 11-13. Ongoing Online. [email protected], www.austintexas.gov/budget.

DRIVE-UP HIV/STI TESTING No appointment necessary for free and confidential tests for HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis. Through July 23. Fridays, 9am-noon Rosewood-Zaragosa Neighborhood Center, 2800 Webberville Rd.. Free. www.austintexas.gov/health.

APA! POURS FOR PETS Austin Pets Alive! puts the "fun" in "fundraiser" this month: For $40, you can purr-chase a passport to use participating locations throughout July, and at each stop, pick up a coffee, beer, glass of wine, or even a refreshing agua fresca. The nonprofit animal shelter is partnering with Austin favorites like Irene’s, Hank’s, Cosmic Coffee, Yard Bar, and more, and proceeds go to pets in need. July 1-31 Citywide. $40 donation. austinpetsalive.org.

SUMMER LUNCH FOR TEENS AND KIDS Central Health is providing children ages 18 and under with free weekly meal packs that include breakfast and lunch for the entire week. Through Aug. 12. Thursdays, noon-2pm Central Health Southeast Health & Wellness Center, 2901 Montopolis Dr.. Free. fb.com/southeasthealthandwellnesscenter.

ARC OF THE CAPITAL AREA WILDFLOWER PROGRAM In collaboration with Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, The Arc offers classes for adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities focusing on social-emotional growth, vocational studies, life skills, active recreation, and Texas nature. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9am-2pm Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse. $150-300 per month. arcaustin.org/wildflower.

ACA SPECIAL ENROLLMENT DEADLINE Sunday, Aug. 15, is the deadline to sign up for health insurance through the federal Health Insurance Marketplace. Enroll online, via phone, or find local certified help in your area at localhelp.healthcare.gov. Deadline: Sun., Aug. 15 800/318-2596. healthcare.gov.

I-35 CAPITAL EXPRESS CENTRAL PROJECT FEEDBACK Review the Texas Department of Transportation’s $4.9 billion project by Sept. 24. TxDOT proposes to add two HOV lanes in each direction along I-35 from U.S. 290 E. to Hwy. 71/Ben White Blvd. Extended Deadline: Sept. 24 Online. my35capex.com.

CENTRAL HEALTH 2022 BUDGET ENGAGEMENT Submit your questions or comments on Central Health’s proposed FY 2022 budget and a member of Central Health’s staff will get in touch. Ongoing Online. participate.centralhealth.net/2022budget.

ZILKER PARK VISION PLAN COMMUNITY SURVEY As part of the engagement process for the first-ever Zilker Park Vision Plan – the guiding framework for the park’s restoration and future development – community members are invited to share their thoughts on the park’s programming. Deadline: Sept. 30 Online. austintexas.gov/zilkervision.

ACL ZILKER PARK ACCESS Beginning Sept. 20, the Parks and Recreation Department will close Zilker Park and select roads and street lanes in preparation for the Austin City Limits Music Festival (Oct. 1-3 & 8-10). View the city’s interactive map for more details and a schedule of park and road closures. Sept. 20-Oct. 17 Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Rd.. austintexas.gov/page/pard-facilities-closures.

SOUTH PLEASANT VALLEY ROAD IMPROVEMENTS SURVEY The city is gathering comments from residents about how they currently use South Pleasant Valley Road between St. Elmo Road and Onion Creek Park and how they would like to use the road to help guide future changes to the corridor. Deadline: Oct. 10 Online. data.austintexas.gov/stories/s/South-Pleasant-Valley-Road/b375-n8jt/.

DRIVE SAFE 2 SAVE COMPETITION Safe 2 Save, in partnership with Austin Transportation’s Vision Zero program, is hosting a competition to find Austin’s “safest driver” to discourage distracted driving and phone use. The competition features weekly cash prizes of $500, with the top three winners receiving prizes at the end. Through Oct. 15 safe2save.org/greater-austin-safe-driving-competition/.

TRANSPORTATION CRITERIA MANUAL UPDATE The TCM defines the rules, requirements, and technical guidelines for building mobility infrastructure in Austin. The city’s Transportation Department has worked to update the manual over the past two years; the current draft of the revised TCM is available for public review now through Nov. 1. Deadline: Nov. 1 Online. austintexas.gov/street-design.

AUSTIN STRATEGIC MOBILITY PLAN SURVEY Austin Transportation Department seeks community members’ feedback on three new policy changes to the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan, the city’s first comprehensive, multimodal transportation plan. Ongoing Online. austintexas.gov/asmp.

TPWD COMMUNITY OUTDOOR OUTREACH PROGRAM GRANT TPWD’s CO-OP grants provide funding to tax-exempt organizations for programming that engages under-served populations in TPWD mission-oriented outdoor recreation, conservation, and environmental education activities. Deadline: Nov. 1 Online. tpwd.texas.gov.

FORD BUILD TO CONNECT This multiday outdoor event includes displays of Ford’s all-electric F-150 Lightning truck and Mustang Mach-E SUV models. Oct. 15-24. Mon.-Fri., noon-9pm; Sat.-Sun., 9am-8pm Republic Square, 422 Guadalupe, 512/381-1147. Free. fordautoshows.com/built-to-connect.

AUSTIN LGBT CHAMBER HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE Austin’s queer business chamber hosts its annual drive for new (and unwrapped) toys, clothing, and shoes for local children. Donations will go to children and families enrolled in LifeWorks programs and CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Travis County programs. See here for a list of drop-off locations and suggested donations. Through Dec. 10 Multiple locations. austinlgbtchamber.com/toydrive.

PRIMARY ELECTION DAY WORKER Over 600 spots need to be filled at polling locations for the March 1 primaries; this is a paid position through Travis County. traviscountydemocrats.org.

WIC MOBILE UNIT Resources and info about Austin Public Health’s Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) supplemental nutrition program for qualifying pregnant women, new mothers, and young children. Check online for current schedule Various locations. Free. austintexas.gov/wic.

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