Virginia cities accounted for three of the 10 localities that received the All-America City designation this year from the National Civic League, which has recognized civic innovation annually since 1949.
Danville, Roanoke and Newport News were acknowledged this weekend from among 20 finalists.
Both Danville and Roanoke have received the award in the past. Danville was named an All-America City in 2020 and 1977, and Roanoke has now received the recognition eight times — more than any other Virginia city.
The theme for this year’s contest was “Strengthening Democracy through Local Action and Innovation,” and finalists were selected because of their innovative ways to engage community members in activities that strengthen local democracy, like making it easier to vote or serve in leadership roles.
The finalist teams presented their stories to a jury of civic leaders at a conference in Denver over the weekend.
Danville submitted an entry this year for the first time since it was last recognized in 2020.
The entry highlighted the city’s efforts to develop a new comprehensive plan, using a process that heavily engages the community through workshops, outreach and events. This effort, called PLAN Danville, has a storefront in the River District and a team of six community ambassadors, locals who have established trust with other community members. 
“Our city is undergoing a remarkable transformation, and we are committed to ensuring that every citizen has a voice in shaping our future,” said Danville Mayor Alonzo Jones in a news release from the city of Danville. “This award is a testament to the collaborative spirit that propels us forward.”
The application also mentioned community engagement programs by the Danville Police Department, the parks and recreation department and the city school board.
“Danville, Virginia, once economically challenged due to the decline of its industrial sectors, has evolved into a thriving center for local businesses and innovation, fostering economic growth, public safety, and meaningful resident engagement,” said a release from the National Civic League.
Roanoke was recognized for its confrontation of racist systems and neglect, the release said.
The National Civic League acknowledged Roanoke’s community inclusion programs to address language barriers and limited job opportunities for immigrants and refugees, its advisory boards that have renamed public spaces of the city, and zoning reforms to expand equitable housing.
Newport News was recognized for its work to address root causes of gun violence, including food security, vocational training, education, housing, mentorship, conflict resolution and family relationships, the release said.
Seven other localities were recognized as All-America Cities this year: Edinburg, Texas; High Point, North Carolina; La Marque, Texas; Lexington, Kentucky; Monrovia, California; Seattle, Washington; and Watkinsville, Georgia.
