Participatory Budgeting - Proposals
Giving people real power over real money.
The West End Revitalization has secured $40,000 for West End residents, business owners, and workers
to invest in the community in 2025.
The Steering Committee reviewed every idea submitted, and narrowed them down to 8 proposals, which you can read below.
Voting is open from August 30-Sepember 13. People with a connection to the West End of Rock Island who are at least 13 years old can vote online at ______________________ , or via a paper ballot at one of these locations: MLK Center, _____________________________________________________.
Proposal 1:
Neighbors Helping Neighbors Landscaping Services
Cost estimate: $20,000 to $30,000
This project proposes a youth employment and training program that provides seasonal landscaping and outdoor maintenance services (such as lawn mowing, snow shoveling, salt laying, and native planting) to support seniors, residents with disabilities, and others in need. Youth ages 16 to 25 will receive hands-on training and paid employment, gaining valuable skills while serving their community. Funding would cover equipment, fuel, maintenance, safety supplies, and wages.
Community members can apply to either receive services or support the program as volunteers; however, there will be a limited number of service and work opportunities available each week based on staffing, equipment, and scheduling capacity. The program aims to build stronger intergenerational connections, support independent living, and create meaningful job opportunities for local youth.
Proposal 3:
8th Grade Promotion for Family InterACTION
Cost estimate: $5,000 to $7,500
This project will celebrate and support youth as they begin planning for life after high school. Modeled after an “8th Grade Promotion,” the program will host an annual Career Exploration Day that brings together schools, employers, trade programs, military representatives, and local businesses to introduce students to a wide range of career and post-secondary opportunities.
To ensure students and families leave with lasting guidance, the event will also feature a take-home pamphlet with information on local high schools, scholarships, financial aid resources, FAQs, and career pathways. After the event, students will be encouraged to connect with school counselors for further support and planning. The goal is to spark curiosity, build confidence, and connect youth with real options and resources for their future.
Proposal 4:
Take Back The Block: Neighborhood Associations
Cost estimate: $15,000 to $20,000
This project will support the formation of three new neighborhood associations in areas of the community that currently lack formal organization (Century Woods, Franklin Field Area, Longview Area). Each association will begin by identifying and recruiting neighborhood captains: local residents who are passionate about bringing neighbors together. These captains will receive ongoing training and leadership development through quarterly workshops. The project will also help establish clear neighborhood boundaries, provide materials to support monthly meetings, and offer funding for four community events per year for each association. By investing in local leadership and providing structure, this project aims to strengthen communication, increase resident involvement, and build long-term neighborhood pride and collaboration.
Proposal 5:
Fresh West Farmers Market
Cost estimate: $5,000
The West End Farmer’s Market will provide a welcoming, community-centered space for residents to access healthy, locally grown food while supporting neighborhood-based economic opportunity. Held on the first Saturday or Sunday of the month from May through July, the market will open around 11:30 a.m. or noon, timed to begin after Sunday church services. The market is free for both vendors and attendees, ensuring accessibility for all. West End residents will have the opportunity to sign up for vendor booths to sell fresh produce, homemade goods, or other items, creating pathways for economic mobility, entrepreneurship, and community visibility. In addition to showcasing diverse, locally grown foods, the market aims to foster neighborhood pride, food access, and connection among residents.
Proposal 6:
QC Passport – Cultural Passes, Programs, & Events
Cost estimate: $10,000 to $20,000
This project will connect West End residents of all ages with free or discounted access to local activities such as sports, fitness, art, theater, music, and educational programs through partnerships with community organizations. Residents will be able to pick up special coupons or passes to register for eligible programs, with the cost covered by West End Revitalization grant funds. In addition, up to six family outings will be organized in 2026 with free bus transportation to destinations like the Putnam Museum or the Botanical Center. The goal is to reduce financial and transportation barriers while increasing access to enriching, community-based opportunities.
Proposal 7:
West End Clean Start
Cost estimate: $5,000 to $7,500
This project fosters community pride and environmental health through organized neighborhood clean-up events and special residential garbage pick-ups focused on the West End area. In partnership with Living Lands and Waters and/or other organizations, the community will be invited to participate in a large-scale clean-up once per quarter or twice a year, with trash collection supplies available. These clean-ups are open to all residents, with activities concentrated within the West End neighborhood. Following each event, a community picnic will be hosted to celebrate collective efforts and encourage neighborly connection. Additionally, this project will support two exclusive special trash pick-up days for West End residents at no cost, helping to reduce waste buildup and improve neighborhood cleanliness.
Proposal 2:
Each One, Teach One Skill-Share Program
Cost estimate: $5,000 to $12,000
Once a month starting in January 2026, this project will offer free workshops and short courses taught by community members with valuable life skills, such as financial skills, trades, lawncare, music, gardening, cooking, and more. These sessions will be open to residents of all ages and designed to share practical knowledge, build connections, and celebrate the talents within the community. In recognition of their time and expertise, participating instructors will receive honoraria. The goal is to create accessible, neighbor-led learning experiences that strengthen community bonds and foster skill-sharing across generations.
Proposal 8:
West End Community Celebrations
Cost estimate: $10,000 to $15,000
This project will support local organizations and committees with a $500 sponsorship fund for up to 20 West End social events. Events must be open to all West End residents and honor the rich culture of Rock Island’s West End community. These gatherings should serve not only as opportunities for connection and celebration but also as platforms to invite residents to become actively engaged in shaping their neighborhood’s future through civic participation.