The Equity Action Team (EAT) is a coalition of community members and City of Austin staff focused on advancing racial equity in our communities through partnerships with City departments, non-profits, philanthropic entities and community-based groups.

 

The EAT meetings are dedicated to critical discussions and strategizing on how to best improve the quality of life for most directly impacted communities in Austin.

 

Everyone is welcome to join the EAT! As a member, your responsibility is to attend and bring your community with you. During our meetings, we hear from community members and City staff to understand community needs and City projects and work together to produce better outcomes for all.
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EQUITY + INCLUSION OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS

 Austin Equity and Inclusion remains deeply committed to the vital efforts of our Equity, Human Rights, and Civil Rights Divisions. In times of national uncertainty, we recognize and respect the concerns many community members have about how budgets may affect equity-centered services and support. We want to assure you that the City continues to stand firmly behind our office, our mission, and the work we do together.

 

As we look ahead, we are sharpening our strategies and aligning our resources to have the greatest positive impact on Austin’s diverse communities—especially those facing the greatest inequities.

 

Below are updates in three key areas of our work...

Budget: Emphasizing Commitment and Transparency

Less than 3% of the overall Equity and Inclusion FY25–26 proposed budget will be reduced. Of that amount, just over 80% reflects contractual savings from Civil Rights Real Estate. The impact to the Equity Division is minimal—less than $26,000—allowing our core programs and initiatives to continue uninterrupted.

This budget reflects the City’s ongoing prioritization of equity, and we remain steadfast in using our resources to support meaningful change in partnership with our community.

Training: Building Stronger Metrics, Objectives & Outcomes

After more than eight years of Undoing Racism training, we are expanding how we measure impact. The Equity Division is actively developing clear metrics, objectives, and updated evaluation processes that will help us understand the long-term impact of our training efforts.

These tools will better equip us to track progress within our office, across City departments, and in our communities. We have two more training sessions scheduled for this fiscal year, and once our new measures are finalized, we will proceed with scheduling the remaining sessions.

This work ensures our approach to anti-racism training is sustainable, impactful, and responsive to evolving community needs.

Operationalizing Equity: Supporting Departments with Action and Accountability

Our vision is to embed equity into the daily operations of every City department—turning principles into action, and reflection into sustained change. Building on the Equity Assessment Tool as our foundation, we are building a stronger structure for accountability and results.

We are working across City departments to:

  • Strengthen relationships

  • Support department-specific equity goals

  • Provide guidance and tools for measurable action

  • Ensure continuous improvement based on real-time community feedback

This step represents a deepened commitment to operationalizing equity citywide, grounded in shared accountability and collaborative leadership.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Public Health in Action: A Snapshot of Austin Public Health (APH)
APH's Director, Adrienne Sturrup joined us for the June 25th EAT Meeting 
 
 
Austin Public Health (APH) works hard to keep our community healthy and safe. Over the past year, they’ve helped more than 118,000 people with basic needs, provided nearly 300,000 vaccines to children, and supported families through programs like WIC. Their team includes over 600 workers at 35 sites across the city.
But recently, APH has been affected by federal budget cuts. Four major grants were suddenly canceled before their end dates, causing an almost $2 million loss. These grants supported services for people with HIV, families experiencing homelessness, and other vulnerable groups. This is especially concerning because nearly one-third of APH’s total budget comes from federal grants, which also fund over half of its workforce.
Despite these challenges, Director Sturrup's message was clear: APH remains committed to preventing disease, promoting health, and protecting everyone’s well-being. Thank you to APH for sharing this valuable information with our community.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Party at the People's House: Summer Festival at City Hall
 
Thank you to everyone who joined us at City Hall on Saturday, June 28th for the Party at the People's House! Austin Equity and Inclusion had a blast talking with community, seeing people energized around the different cultures, musical performances, food, and fare. 
Shout out to our Human Rights Officer, Shafina Khaki, who took the stage to share about the importance of belonging--she kicked off and closed out the celebrations.
We were excited to share with community about our Office's work and how we've joined together under one roof with Equity, Civil Rights, and Human Rights. Through these 3 divisions, we keep doing the work to continue driving our City's practices and policies forward through an equity lens, and continue to address discrimination, increase access, remove barriers to opportunity, and foster a community where all identities are respected.
 
Didn’t get a chance to see it?
Check out the PAPH2025 highlights on Instagram @austintexasgov  
 
Want to share feedback on your PAPH experience?
Email us at equity@austintexas.gov
We're here to listen!
Congratulations to our Digital Media Specialist, Sheridan Ray!
 
In the first week of July, I had the honor to be apart of the All American Cities Conference in Denver, Colorado!
 
Myself and 8 other amazing City of Austin employees performed a skit highlighting the work we do in our communities. 
 
Additionally, I was so honored to receive the John Parr Youth Award for civic engagement and leadership! It feels amazing to be recognized and I am proud but also thankful for the experience and the people who’ve helped me along the way.
 
Special thanks to Kerstin Johansson for being a wonderful mentor who has always found ways to lift me up and bring new opportunities, and special thanks to Natalie Hulsey and Kellee Coleman for teaching me to always put my humanity first in everything I do.
 
------------------------
 
We're proud of you, Sheridan!
 
 
LEARNING FROM HISTORY
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
 
On July 9, 1868, the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution was adopted, overruling the  Dred Scott v. Sandford decision. This Amendment, also known as the Reconstruction Amendment, granted citizenship to “all persons born or naturalized in the United States.” The 14th Amendment forbid states to deny any person “life, liberty, or property, without due process of law” or to deny any person “equal protection of the laws.”
 
The amendment was designed to grant citizenship to and protect the civil liberties of people recently freed from slavery. These liberties were undermined and limited after the  Plessy v. Ferguson (1896) Supreme Court case which upheld the constitutionality of segregation, Jim Crow laws, and Black codes. 
 
Read on to learn more (a 3 minute read) about what Howard Zinn writes in Chapter 11: Robber Barons and Rebels of A People's History of the United States.
 
WHAT WE'RE READING
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
July is Disability Pride Month
July 26, 2025 marks the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
This month, we're reading...
 
"In Black Disability Politics Sami Schalk explores how issues of disability, broadly construed, have been and continue to be incorporated into Black activism, from the 1970s to the present. In so doing, she establishes a new lineage for disability politics, one that allows the work of contemporary Black disability justice activists to be central. Aiming to speak to both academic and activist audiences, Black Disability Politics identifies common qualities of Black disability politics and provides praxis-based approaches for enacting these politics in contemporary social justice work. Using the archives of the Black Panther Party and the National Black Women's Health Project alongside interviews with contemporary Black disabled cultural workers, Schalk argues that the work of Black disability politics not only exist, but are essential to the future of Black liberation movements." 
 
SURVEYS + COMMUNITY INPUT
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
City Council Members will be hosting district level community meetings about the proposed budget in July and August. See the schedule and locations here on the Budget Public Input site. 
 
Budget Adoption Timeline:
  • July 11: FY 2025 - 26 Proposed Budget Available Online
  • July 15: FY 2025 - 26 Proposed Budget Presentation to Council
  • July 23: Council budget work session and community input session
  • July 29: Council budget work session
  • July 31: Council budget work session and public hearing on the budget
  • August 5: Council budget work session
  • August 7: Council budget work session
  • August 13 - 15: Budget and Tax Rate Adoption by City Council

For more information and updates on the process timeline, click here. 
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.

 

The OPO Open House is an opportunity for community members to learn more about OPO’s role in police oversight in Austin. This event invites community members to connect with staff to ask in-depth questions about the complaints process, learn how their feedback plays a key role in our work, and discover ways that we can all work together as a community to enhance transparency and accountability with Austin police. 

 Details:

📅 Date: Saturday, July 19, 2025 

⏰ Time: 10 –2 PM 

📍 Location:  Austin Central Library in the Special Events Center

   

Register Here 
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.

The Creative Reset Needs Your Input 

 
The Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment (ACME) is redefining how Austin supports its arts and cultural community with The Creative Reset.  Help inform how the City of Austin invests in culture, music and heritage by providing feedback on the proposed cultural funding program guidelines. 

 

📣 Share your thoughts HERE by July 20
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
📣 The Austin History Center wants to hear from YOU!

Join The Austin History Center for a community input session near you and help shape the future of our programs, exhibits, and public spaces.
Take the Archives & You survey and receive a free coffee mug ☕ (while supplies last) or a historic map 🗺️.

📍 Event Dates & Locations:

🗓️ Monday, July 21 | 6:00–7:30 PM
📌 Yarborough Branch (2200 Hancock Dr)
 
🗓️ Thursday, July 24 | 6:00–7:30 PM
📌 Twin Oaks Branch (1800 South 5th St)
 
🗓️ Sunday, July 27 | 1:00–2:30 PM
📌 Spicewood Springs Branch (8637 Spicewood Springs Rd)

✨ Enjoy refreshments and take part in fun, creative activities. Share your ideas and experiences to help shape what’s next for the Austin History Center.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
The City of Austin is updating the City of Austin Hazard Mitigation Action Plan (HMAP). The Plan will address hazards that affect the area. The goal of the Plan Update is to evaluate current risks and develop an effective mitigation strategy to ultimately minimize or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property from known hazards.

Hazard Mitigation Plans must be updated and approved by FEMA every 5 years to remain eligible for grant funds through FEMA's hazard mitigation assistance program. An approved HMAP also earns application scoring points for a variety of other grant programs. 

Public participation in this survey and / or attendance to the public meetings will provide the planning team valuable information that will be used in the development of the HMAP and educate the planning team's approach. 
 
This survey closes November 21, 2025
 
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.

Over the past three years, the City of Austin’s Watershed Protection Department has asked Austin community members to share your vision for the future of local creeks, lakes, river, and springs. And you delivered!  

 

Your input is helping us to create Rain to River: A Strategic Plan to Protect Austin's Creeks and Communities. We will use this plan to set goals, prioritize our work, and guide our decision making to tackle urgent challenges over the next 10 years. 

 

Now, we need your help deciding what to prioritize. With limited resources, we need help deciding how to work toward an equitable, resilient Austin, where our natural and built environments work in harmony to ensure our community feels safe when it rains, and our waterways are healthy. 

  • Do you think it’s better to concentrate available resources on fewer, high-impact projects or to spread them out across smaller projects in more areas?  
  • What types of programs or improvements would help you feel safer when it rains?  

We want to hear from you!

Please take our 10-minute survey here 
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.

Community Members Wanted for New Child Care and Out-of-School Time Advisory Council!

 

Travis County is creating a new Community Advisory Council (CAC) made up of 21 members to help guide how voter-approved funds will be used for child care and out-of-school programs. This council will share ideas and advice with the Health and Human Services team on how to design and run these services.

The County is looking for people with personal or professional experience in child care or out-of-school time programs. This includes:

  • Parents or caregivers

  • Child care or afterschool program providers

  • Youth ages 18–24

  • Community members with expertise in these areas

📝 If you’re interested in applying as an individual, please fill out the form 


🏢 If you are part of an organization (like a school district, business, university, grassroots group, or city agency) and want to nominate someone, use this form 

 

📅 Application deadline: Monday, August 4, 2025, at 5:00 PM CST


📧 Questions? Email: ChildcareandOST@traviscountytx.gov

 

To view the full information packet, please refer to the PDF here

¡Se busca participación comunitaria para el nuevo Consejo Asesor de Cuidado Infantil y Programas Extraescolares!

 

El Condado de Travis está formando un nuevo Consejo Asesor Comunitario (CAC) de 21 personas para ayudar a guiar cómo se usarán los fondos aprobados por los votantes para cuidado infantil y programas extraescolares. Este consejo dará su opinión sobre cómo diseñar y poner en marcha estos servicios importantes para familias en nuestra comunidad.

Se invita a participar a personas con experiencia personal o profesional en cuidado infantil o programas para después de la escuela. Se necesitan padres/madres o cuidadores, proveedores de cuidado infantil o programas extraescolares, jóvenes de 18 a 24 años, y personas con experiencia en estos temas.

 

📝 Si eres una persona interesada, llena la solicitud aquí


🏢 Si representas a una organización como una escuela, empresa, universidad u otra institución relacionada, usa esta solicitud 

 

📅 Fecha límite para enviar solicitudes: lunes 4 de agosto de 2025 a las 5:00 p.m. (hora central)


📧 Preguntas: envía un correo a ChildcareandOST@traviscountytx.gov

 

Para ver todos los detalles, consulta el paquete informativo completo en PDF
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
CITY + COMMUNITY EVENTS
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.

Japanese Film Fest at Carver

Each Tuesday in July, we’ll be showing a different Japanese film at the Carver Branch. Come to experience some of the most exciting, mind-bending, stunningly beautiful cinema ever made!

Find films and times here
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.

Teen Journalism Workshops

 

Learn how to find the answers about your community in this series of workshops, perfect for teens age 13-18 who are interested in journalism and storytelling. 

 

Learn more and register here
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.

BRAVE Minds: Breaking Stigmas, Building Relationships!

 

In honor of National Minority Mental Health Month, BRAVE Communities invites you to a powerful happy hour of conversation, connection, and community care.

BRAVE Communities Connection is holding space where young people, families, and community members come together for informal conversations and listening circles, we’ll explore ways to support mental wellness, break stigma, and uplift one another—especially in light of recent Central Texas flooding and the broader challenges facing our communities. This special gathering will feature:

✨ Listening circles on:

  • Navigating mental health as teens, adults, and community members

  • Breaking the silence around emotional well-being

  • Strategies for resilience and self-care

📚 Mental health resource tables with local practitioners, counselors, and community organizations

🌏 Cross-cultural connections with young people from across the Asia Pacific visiting Austin through the U.S. Department of State's TechGirls exchange program

Let’s #MakeATXBRAVE where vulnerability is strength, and every story matters.

Free with RSVP. Please share and invite your family, friends, and neighbors. Children's corner available with arts and crafts. Light refreshments provided for those that pre-register before July 26th.

 

RSVP here!
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Sunday, August 17, 2025 - 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
 

Join Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) for our summer Zero Waste Resource Fairs. We will provide information on composting for multifamily properties. You can pick up a free kitchen compost collector (one per household) and enjoy compostable snacks while supplies last! Also, meet with other City of Austin departments to learn about their programs, including some that promote zero waste and sustainability. 
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.

You're invited to the next Veterans Resource Fair on Wednesday, August 13th, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Austin VA Outpatient Clinic (Room 1G-101), located at 7901 Metropolis Dr, Austin, TX 78744.

 

Hosted in partnership with the City of Austin, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Texas Veterans Commission, this monthly engagement takes place every second Wednesday and is open to veterans, surviving spouses, and veteran dependents.

 

The goal of the fair is to connect our veteran community with the benefits and resources they’ve earned. The event features a combination of presentations and tabling from local, state, and federal agencies.

 

📈 Nationally, nearly 1 in 4 veterans are unaware of the full range of benefits available to them—including VA health care, education assistance, and disability compensation. Events like this help close that gap by providing direct access to knowledgeable representatives and support services.

Please help spread the word to those in your networks who could benefit from this important event.
GRANTS + TRAINING + SERVICES
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.

BIG CHANGES FOR ACLT!

 

Applications are Open!

 

Now the Applications will stay open 24 hrs, 7 days a week until all homes are sold!

 

Once you apply, you will here from a staff member within 48 hours to begin the income certification process.

 

No NEED To REAPPLY if you applied in a previous round. If you duplicate your application it will be deleted.

 

NEW APPLICANTS - Complete the short application by clicking below! You will receive a confirmation email once you have applied.

 

Questions? Please email info@aclt-homes.org or call 512-790-9590

 

Apply Now!
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.

Thanks to an Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) grant, the City of Austin is offering Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Basic classes to the public! 

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program educates community members about disaster preparedness through classroom and hands-on training. 

 

Upcoming Classes:

 

Things to know: 

  • To sign up, you will need a FEMA Student Identification (SID) number. If you don’t have one yet, click here.
  • Before signing up for CERT Basic (G-317), students are encouraged to take the free, online FEMA Independent Study IS-317: Introduction to CERT.
  • CERT Basic (G-317) is a 24-hour class. Please only sign up if you can commit to completing the course.
  • To learn more about CERT, please click here.
  • At this time, we offer training only. The potential for a future City of Austin volunteer CERT program is still to be determined.  

CERT Basic (G-317) Classes: 

Please note: after you have created your FEMA SID, you will use it to create an account on the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) Training site. 
Flyer for a "Homestead Exemption Clinic" hosted by the Travis Central Appraisal District. The event takes place on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 10:30 am to 12 pm at the Pflugerville Public Library, located at 1008 Pfluger St. W, Pflugerville, TX 78660. The clinic helps residents learn how to reduce their property tax bill through homestead exemptions. To qualify, homeowners must reside in the home, not claim an exemption elsewhere, and have a driver’s license with an address matching the property. Special exemptions are also available for seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, disaster victims, and some surviving spouses. For more details, visit traviscad.org/homesteadexemptions.
Volante para la "Clínica de Exención Fiscal de la Residencia" organizada por el Distrito de Tasación Central de Travis. El evento se llevará a cabo el sábado 2 de agosto de 2025, de 10:30 am a 12 pm en la Biblioteca Pública de Pflugerville, ubicada en 1008 Pfluger St., W, Pflugerville, TX 78660. La clínica ofrece información sobre cómo reducir su factura de impuestos a la propiedad mediante una exención fiscal. Para calificar, los propietarios deben residir en la propiedad, no reclamar otra exención y tener una licencia de conducir con una dirección que coincida con la del domicilio. También hay exenciones especiales para personas mayores de 65 años, personas con discapacidades, veteranos con discapacidades, víctimas de desastres y algunos cónyuges sobrevivientes. Para más información, visite traviscad.org/homesteadexemptions.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.

Prepare for Extreme Heat

 

The City of Austin encourages you to prepare for summer heat.

 

 Here are some essential tips: 

☑️ Make a plan: Create an emergency plan with your family that includes designated meeting spots and emergency contacts. Make sure everyone knows what to do and practice your plan.
 
☑️Build an emergency kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, first-aid supplies, and any necessary medications. Do not forget to include supplies for pets.
 
☑️ Know Your Neighbors: By knowing your neighbors and building a strong network, you can increase your community's readiness level in an emergency.
 
☑️ Stay informed: Keep your cell phone charged or a battery-powered radio to monitor local weather conditions, and sign up for emergency notifications from WarnCentralTexas.org 
 
 
 
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
 
Be sure to know the dangers that can come with heavy rain and flash flooding. As little as 6 inches of water can cause unsafe driving conditions.
 
🛑 Never drive around barricades.
 
🛑 Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters.
 
🛑 Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
 
 More info at ReadyCentralTexas.org 
 
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Asegúrate de conocer los peligros que pueden venir con la lluvia intensa y las inundaciones repentinas. Incluso tan solo 6 pulgadas de agua pueden causar condiciones peligrosas para conducir.
 
🛑 Nunca conduzcas alrededor de barricadas.
 
🛑  No camines, nades o conduzcas a través de aguas de inundación.
 
🛑¡De la vuelta, no te ahogues!
 
 Más información en ReadyCentralTexas.org
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
 

Application opening date: June 1-August 31, 2025

Deadline for applications: 11:59pm (CT), Sunday, August 31, 2025

Austin Central Library invites artists, collectives, curators and beyond to submit proposals for consideration to exhibit at the 2700sq ft. gallery for a 12-week exhibition period, taking place between Fall 2026-Spring 2027. Selections will be made by impartial juries comprised of local artists, curators, educators and community leaders through a jury-scoring process. Candidates will be announced in Fall 2025. It is free to apply, and the call is open to applicants residing in Texas. 
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.

Boost your business with the Austin Reuse Directory  

Are you a local business that resells, rents, upcycles, or repairs gently used items? Get listed in the Austin Reuse Directory to reach customers in the Austin area. The directory’s search tool helps residents find businesses that keep reusable items in use and support Austin’s zero waste goal.  

Plus, feature your events and workshops on our new community calendar to build connections and grow engagement. It’s free and easy to join.

Sign up today at

 AustinReuseDirectory.com. 
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.

📅 Festival Dates: Saturday, October 18 – Sunday, November 2, 2025

 

🌿 Why Host?

  • Celebrate trees, pollinators, and many other related aspects of nature in your own, unique way!
  • Receive guidance during the planning process, tools for promotion, and many event resources!
  • Mini-grants of up to $1,500 available to support your event!

📅 Join us Wed. May 21st, 12-1pm for the Roots & Wings Festival Information Session w/ Q&A

  • Zoom details: Register here! (Strongly recommended, but will be recorded)

 

📝 Apply by August 1, 2025: 2025 Roots & Wings Festival Application

  • Click to review it first, and once started, save it every 30 days until submission.

🌐 Visit rootsandwingsfest.com for more information 
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.

Artist Career Training Application Opening Soon! 

 

Applications open Tuesday, July 15, for Artist Career Training, a six-week program to advance your creative business.

Gain the tools, mentorship, and resources from subject matter experts about City resources. Training sessions to start September 24.  

 
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.

The City’s Small and Minority Business Resources Department (SMBR), in partnership with Economic Development and Financial Services departments, will host the 2025 Small Business Connections Conference on Wednesday, August 27, from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Palmer Events Center. Join us for a day packed with valuable insights, networking, and growth opportunities! 
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
 

As funding and staffing for public health services face growing challenges, volunteers are more essential than ever. The Austin/Travis County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is a vital community-based network of volunteers who support emergency preparedness, disaster response, and everyday public health efforts like vaccination clinics and health fairs. Open to anyone over 18 — whether or not you have a medical background — the MRC offers a meaningful way to give back, build skills, and help protect your community. With reduced capacity among health professionals, MRC volunteers play a critical role in keeping our communities safe and resilient. Joining is simple — apply today and be part of the mission!

 
Held in person every 3rd Tuesday of the month with a hybrid option available on Microsoft Teams Fill out the form on our volunteer application page to receive more information on how to attend.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
Photograph of a mural titled “The Sisterhood of Two Hearts” displayed on the exterior wall of Mexic-Arte Museum. The artwork features vibrant, colorful depictions of cultural unity between Austin, Texas, and Saltillo, Mexico. Artists: Ana Sofia and Chous. Photo by Lori Renteria. Text overlay says “The Creative Reset” with a City of Austin seal.
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