Downtown Akron Partnership (DAP) Block-by-Block operations manager Wayne Weese recently was awarded the “It’s My Downtown” manager’s award at the 2010 Block-by-Block Annual Meeting for his accomplishments during the first year of DAP’s Ambassador Program and Safety Initiative.
The award signifies the success of the DAP Ambassador Program and Safety Initiative, which began in January 2009 to promote a vibrant and valuable Downtown Akron.
In the first year of Downtown Akron Partnership’s Ambassador Program and Safety Initiative, ambassadors assisted more than 6,500 pedestrians and 2,800 motorists, patrolled 5,932 miles on bicycle, collected 42,719 lbs. of trash, removed 1,446 instances of graffiti, power washed 99 blocks of sidewalk and cleaned 2,929 bus stops.
Akron is one of 33 cities in the national Block-by-Block program, which aims to enhance downtown areas by providing clean and safe environments to promote economic development. The award recognizes Weese for his hard work in fostering a successful environment among his staff of eight cleaning and safety ambassadors. “It’s My Downtown” encourages ambassadors to gain knowledge of downtown and exhibit a passion for their area and their work.
Through innovative staff recognition, team building strategies and continued training efforts, Weese exceeded expectations as a manager and motivated his staff to share in his commitment.
“I’m one of those guys that want to be the best at what I do,” Weese said. He takes pictures and videos and makes charts and graphs to demonstrate the progress he and his staff have made downtown.
Although the program has only been in Akron for about a year, Block-by-Block and other cities are now looking to Akron as a model for their programs.
But Weese cannot do his work alone. He motivates his staff by giving them a role in decision-making processes. He also joins his staff in their efforts.
“I’m the first guy out there up on the side of a building on a fire escape, removing the graffiti,” he said.
