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Block by Block Ambassadors Help Welcome the World

Ambassadors help showcase the best of host cities during 39-day tournament

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (July 17, 2026) – Over the last few weeks, Block by Block Ambassadors across the country have rolled out the red carpet for soccer – eh football – fans from across the country and around the globe.  

As the United States co-hosted the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Canada and Mexico, Block by Block played a key role in supporting tourism and hospitality in several U.S. cities.

It’s no surprise that the cities best equipped to host a major event like the World Cup were already working with Block by Block to manage local programs that create a clean, welcoming atmosphere for tourists. 

Louisville-based Block by Block operates more than 200 unique programs nationwide, providing cleaning, safety, hospitality, outreach and specialized urban place management services.  

Block by Block has Ambassador programs in 10 of the 11 U.S. cities that hosted matches. Those include Atlanta, Arlington (TX), Boston, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Seattle. 

“Hosting the World Cup has been a dream come true for our teams, allowing us to show how much we care about the cities we serve and how much we are willing to lean into new experiences with our partners,” said Derreck Hughes, Executive Vice President of Block by Block. “Whether it’s annual events like NCAA Tournament games or Super Bowls in cities we support, our teams are always prepared, nimble and enthusiastic about helping our partners welcome guests.” 

For the World Cup events, Block by Block boosted staffing in markets where it was needed and even showcased special kits – a soccer term for uniforms – in markets where Ambassadors played a leading role in creating clean, safe, and welcoming environments for fans. 

Carin Cardone, Division Vice President for Block by Block, said employees throughout the company worked for more than a year to prepare. She noted significant impacts from the World Cup in and around New York City and Boston. 

Estimates are widespread but indicate more than 1 million international visitors came to the U.S. for World Cup matches and millions more Americans traveled to cities hosting World Cup matches.  

Local media reported hundreds of thousands of World Cup travelers to Boston, where Block by Block manages Ambassador Programs for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, the Downtown Boston Alliance, Seaport District and Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy.  

The host committee for the New York/New Jersey’s World Cup matches estimated more than 1.2 visitors to the city, including international and U.S. travelers. Block by Block manages a team of more than 350 for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey who provide hospitality, wayfinding and customer care support at four major airports in the area. 

Cardone said the World Cup work in Boston and New York/New Jersey shows how Block by Block teams can adapt quickly to address the complexities of surges in visitors while still delivering a welcoming experience.  

“From our Airport Customer Experience Specialists supporting travelers in major terminals to Transit Ambassadors helping fans navigate stations and Clean and Hospitality Ambassadors supporting local activations, our teams understood the moment and rose to meet it,” she said. “Their work made it easier for visitors to move through unfamiliar places, connect with the host cities and enjoy the experience.” 

Block by Block also supported local visitor campaigns and activations in several other markets. In Arlington, for instance, Ambassadors worked with their client Downtown Arlington Management Corp. to run Kick It Downtown. The campaign promoted watch parties, featured local restaurants and vendors and promoted visitor opportunities at popular locations such as its Rotary DREAM Park. 

Block by Block Ambassadors across the city wore bright yellow uniforms fashioned after soccer jerseys. In nearby Fort Worth, Ambassadors serving the city’s Near West Side Safety Program also donned jerseys representing their districts, while Ambassadors in Downtown Houston did the same to create a personalized hospitality experience for visitors. 

Nationwide, more than 1,200 Block by Block team members supported World Cup operations – about 40 percent of the company’s total workforce. 

“Our teams really stepped up to bring creativity and enthusiasm to our work,” Hughes said. “In some cases, I think they had as much fun as the fans.” 

Hughes, who was recently promoted and oversees Block by Block’s strategies and operations across the country, added that the experience of supporting a major national event like this one creates a template for others to come. 

“The 2028 Summer Olympics are right around the corner, and our Ambassador Teams are already thinking of ways we can help create memorable experiences for visitors,” he said. “The eyes of the world will again be on our cities. Our role will be to help our local partners generate excitement and be part of the welcoming committee for visitors so they leave with a positive perception of L.A. Ultimately, our job is to make sure they want to come back!”  

About Block by Block  

Block by Block has a robust history working in downtowns since their first program launched in Louisville, Ky., in 1995. More than strictly a clean and safe service provider, Block by Block has developed an optimized operating model built on best practices, research, development and modern technology that has attracted partners in more than 200 locations nationwide, including improvement districts, parks, college campuses, transit systems and other public spaces.  

Dennis Roberts joins Block by Block as Vice President of Operations

New addition to executive team supports company’s continued growth and operational excellence

Block by Block is pleased to announce the hiring of Dennis Roberts as Vice President of Operations. Dennis joins the company following the promotion of Derreck Hughes to Executive Vice President, a newly created leadership position designed to support the company’s long-term growth strategy.

Dennis brings extensive executive leadership experience spanning multiple industries and organizations experiencing significant growth and transformation. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for developing high-performing teams, strengthening operational systems, and creating organizational structures that support sustainable success.

Since joining Block by Block in late April, Dennis has spent his time immersing himself in the company’s operations, traveling to programs, meeting with Ambassadors, and gaining firsthand insight into the impact Block by Block has on the communities and public spaces it serves.

“What immediately attracted me to Block by Block is the passion of the people and the impactful work we do every day,” Dennis said. “The work we do in downtown districts, transit agencies, parks, and public spaces is truly amazing, and our teams make a visible difference in the communities they serve. I’m excited to work alongside our leadership team and Ambassadors as we continue to grow and strengthen our operations across the country.” 

As Vice President of Operations, Dennis will provide leadership and strategic oversight for the company’s nationwide operations while helping advance systems, processes, and organizational development initiatives that support Block by Block’s continued expansion.

The decision to recruit externally for the role was intentional. While Block by Block is proud of its history of developing leaders from within, company leadership recognized an opportunity to bring in a new perspective as the organization continues to evolve.

“Dennis brings a unique combination of leadership experience and a fresh perspective that will help us continue to strengthen our organization,” Blair McBride, President of Block by Block, said.  “As we look toward the future, we’re focused on building the systems, structure, and consistency needed to support our growth while maintaining the personalized service that defines Block by Block. Dennis is the right leader to help us achieve that vision.”

With more than 30 years of experience helping public spaces become cleaner, safer, and more welcoming, Block by Block continues to invest in leadership and innovation to better serve its customers, communities, and Ambassadors nationwide.

“This is an exciting time for Block by Block,” Dennis said. “The company has established itself as the industry leader, and I look forward to helping strengthen our operations as we continue to grow and expand our impact across the country.”

Block by Block Announces Derreck Hughes as Executive Vice President 

VP of Operations Promoted to Newly Created Executive Role to Support Continued Growth and Strategic Planning 

Block by Block, the nation’s leading provider of Ambassador Services for public spaces, recently announced the promotion of Derreck Hughes to the newly created position of Executive Vice President. Hughes, who currently serves as Vice President of Operations, will assume expanded responsibilities across the organization as Block by Block continues its strategic growth trajectory.  

In the last decade, Block by Block has nearly doubled its operational size and now operates more than 200 unique programs nationwide, providing cleaning, safety, hospitality, outreach, and specialized urban place management services. Earlier this year, Block by Block launched Civicity, a specialized public safety affiliate focused on human-centered security solutions, further expanding services provided for public spaces. The creation of the Executive Vice President role reflects Block by Block’s continued investment in leadership infrastructure designed to support long-term scalability and innovation.  

Blair McBride, President of Block by Block, praised Hughes’ contributions to the organization’s success and his readiness for the expanded role. 

“Derreck has shown an ever-increasing ability to think and operate strategically, which has been important as we’ve implemented and executed plans for scaling Block by Block,” McBride said. “We’ve both been committed to ensuring that even as the organization has grown, we’re able to deliver the same level of personalized service to our customers. As we move into the next chapter of growth, Derreck’s really well-positioned to take on a larger role in defining and leading our evolution.” 

Since joining the company in 2000 as a Security Officer with Block by Block’s predecessor company, Brantley Security, Hughes has held leadership roles across nearly every level of the organization, including Project Manager, Regional Vice President, and Vice President of Operations. His hands-on operational experience, combined with deep knowledge of public space management, has helped shape many of the systems and processes that support Block by Block’s continued growth today. Hughes’ promotion also reflects Block by Block’s long-standing commitment to developing leaders internally. 

“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had throughout my career at Block by Block,” Hughes said. “I started at the ground level more than two decades ago, and being able to grow through so many different roles has given me a unique perspective on both our business and the people behind it. Block by Block has always been a place where we’re trusted to step up, make things happen, and help shape the future of the organization. I’m proud of what we’ve built together and excited to continue helping shape where we go next.” 

Hughes has also played a key role in strengthening Block by Block’s industry leadership and partnerships. He has served as a Board Member of the International Downtown Association (IDA) since 2019 and has been an active advocate for advancing urban place management organizations nationwide. 

In his new role as Executive Vice President, Hughes will work closely with the executive leadership team to strengthen organizational alignment, identify operational opportunities, and guide both short- and long-term strategic planning initiatives. He will help oversee the continued evolution of Block by Block and Civicity while ensuring the organization remains focused on innovation, operational consistency, customer partnership, and creating vibrant public spaces nationwide. 

“Block by Block is in an exciting position right now,” Hughes said. “As our industry continues to evolve, we have an opportunity to keep raising the standard for how public spaces are supported and experienced. I’m looking forward to helping guide the continued growth of both Block by Block and Civicity while keeping us focused on innovation, strong operations, and genuine connections with our teams and customers.” 

Fleet Management Program Consolidates Vehicle and Equipment Purchases

Innovation is a cornerstone of Block by Block, and with the recent addition of the Fleet & Vehicle Program, we’re exploring how centralizing vehicle purchasing and equipping can benefit both our teams and our customers.  

Derreck Hughes, Vice President of Operations, said the Fleet program originated in Block by Block’s Louisville Lab during the spring of 2024 to explore efficiency and cost-saving measures. He found that leasing through “big-box” companies and sourcing vehicles locally didn’t offer the purchasing power or market controls needed for operations. His solution was to centralize purchasing and branding to allow equipment to arrive at our local operations fully outfitted and ready for field deployment. Hughes said that by standardizing equipment selection, Block by Block can ensure uniform vehicle specifications and layouts across the fleet, as well as improved inventory control, streamlined maintenance, and scripting specific training for the most used items. 

Block by Block vehicles are now purchased directly through a corporate program with Ford. Hughes said in addition to a savings increase, buying factory direct allows us to predict procurement needs and inventory our fleet. Having equipment “on the shelf” — as opposed to ordering once a need arises — can cut lead times down by several weeks. And because the trucks are built in Louisville, “it’s also giving back to the community,” he added.  

Block by Block has also begun working with local vehicle wrap vendors to ensure prioritized scheduling, so vehicles are sent to customers ready to be deployed as quickly as possible. The centralized service approach allows all vehicles to be equipped with safety features such as telematic GPS systems and dashboard cameras, and items to aid operations like truck cages and accessory lighting packages. To manage this new Fleet program, Block by Block named James Wells the Director of Fleet Operations and Innovation. James brings more than 20 years of equipment, logistics, and operations experience to the position. 

“The key for us is creating consistent vehicle packages that improve operational efficiency while taking the burden off of the local management teams,” said Wells.   

Fleet purchasing centralization is also being extended to equipment including pressure washing and information trikes, Tenax street sweepers, GEM EV utility vehicles, leaf vacuums and relay communication devices. This means the company can leverage greater savings and cost effectiveness, as well as better plans for repair cycles and reduce downtime and emergency repairs. 

With the recent enhancements to Block by Block’s reporting system, the SMART System, the company has visibility into the usage and maintenance intervals of our entire fleet to help make data-driven decisions about what equipment works for public spaces.   

“When you have powerful data at your fingertips, we can make better decisions on how to improve our operations through our equipment fleet, how we support our managers and ultimately, how we provide better service to our customers,” Hughes said. 

Block by Block launches services for Gatton Park

Block by Block is proud to announce the launch of a new Ambassador program in Gatton Park, Lexington’s newest park, located in the heart of downtown behind Rupp Arena.

A dedicated team of six Ambassadors will be on patrol seven days a week, providing a wide range of services to keep the park clean, safe, and welcoming. Their work will include walking patrols, trash removal, facility maintenance, landscaping, hospitality, event setup and more.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Gatton Park to our portfolio and to apply the knowledge we’ve gained from other parks to ensure a strong start,” said John Koch, Central Division Vice President of Block by Block.

The program is made possible through financial support from by The Blue Grass Community Foundation, the Town Branch Fund and private donations.

The Gatton Park Ambassador Program follows the proven success of Block By Block’s other Parks programs which have transformed spaces once plagued by trash, encampments, and unwanted activity into vibrant destinations for the public.

For example, before the launch of the Ambassador program at Republic Square in downtown Austin, the park served as an unofficial encampment and was known for high levels of negative activity. Today, Republic Square—and nearby Waterloo Park—are clean, safe, and inviting gathering places for the community.

“Prior to us being there, the incidents were a lot higher and the parks were dirty,” said Nick Haines, Regional Vice President of Block by Block. “Our teams make a huge impact when it comes to creating parks that feel safe, cared for, and welcoming.”

Ambassadors not only address daily cleaning and maintenance, but also engage with the unhoused community, help manage curfews, and enhance the overall visitor experience. Their presence fosters an environment that encourages families, residents, and event organizers to return and enjoy the parks.

“We’ve seen a dramatic increase in park visitors in the parks we manage as our events have become more appealing,” said Haines. “The district can now book more events because the parks are beautiful and inviting. When prospective event producers tour the parks and see Ambassadors in action, it becomes an effortless sell — it truly sells itself.”

With the launch of the Ambassador program, Gatton Park is poised to follow this same path, becoming a lively destination for community gatherings, events, and everyday enjoyment.

Block by Block has a robust history working in downtowns since their first program launched in Louisville, KY in 1995. More than strictly a clean and safe service provider, Block by Block has developed an optimized operating model built on best practices, research, development and modern technology that has attracted partners in more than 850 locations nationwide, including improvement districts, parks, college campuses, transit systems and other public spaces.

For more information about Block by Block, visit https://www.blockbyblock.com/

Block by Block Names Mike Tudor as Regional Director of Operations 

LOUISVILLE, KY – Block by Block is proud to announce Mike Tudor as its new Regional Director of Operations – Midsouth. In this key leadership role, Tudor will oversee Ambassador programs across Kentucky. He will be responsible for advancing operational strategies and ensuring the continued delivery of the high-quality, community-focused services that define Block by Block. 

“We’re excited to welcome Mike Tudor to our leadership team,” said Derreck Hughes, Vice President of Operations. “Mike brings deep experience in operations, team development, and community engagement. With Block by Block’s roots in Louisville, we see the city as a testing ground for innovation — and with Mike’s leadership, we’re confident those innovations will ripple across the regions he oversees.” 

Tudor brings decades of experience in public service and leadership. His career began humbly as a valet and progressed steadily, ultimately leading to his role as Executive Director of the Parking Authority of River City, Inc. (PARC). His journey is a testament to his work ethic, resilience, and lifelong commitment to serving the community. 

“I was raised to serve others and give back,” said Tudor. “Whether through my career, community involvement, or my local church, I’ve always found purpose in service. This role allows me to support the transformation of downtown communities in a meaningful way.” 

Known for his people-first leadership approach, Tudor emphasizes communication, trust-building, and collaboration.  

“Leadership isn’t about giving orders — it’s about bringing people together, aligning on goals, and moving forward as a team,” he added. 

Block by Block has been a trusted partner in downtown management since launching its first program in Louisville, KY in 1995. Today, the company operates in over 180 locations across the U.S., providing clean, safe, hospitality, and outreach services for improvement districts, parks, transit systems, campuses, and other public spaces. With a model grounded in research, best practices, and modern technology, Block by Block continues to evolve in how it serves communities. 

For more information, visit www.blockbyblock.com. 

Park Guide’s Emotional Reaction to Wedding Captures ‘True Moment of Connection and Humanity’

Originally posted by people.com

An unexpected guest made a couple’s wedding day all the more special.

Ashley and Andrew Powell surprised an intimate group of friends and family by hosting a wedding outside on Nov. 16, 2024, in Fells Point, a waterfront neighborhood in Baltimore. The couple privately married a year prior and later wanted to publicly exchange vows in the place where they first expressed their love for one another. What the pair never expected was a park guide to witness their entire ceremony from afar.

“It was so intimate, joyful and emotional — surrounded by so much love. This sweet park employee made the entire celebration even better,” the bride’s best friend, Alexa Sorensen, tells PEOPLE. “We noticed her shortly after the ceremony began, and she stayed for the entire thing.”

As seen in a video taken by Sorensen and recently posted on TikTok, a woman wearing a lime safety jacket happened to stumble upon the wedding. The stranger, whose name is unknown, stopped just a few feet away from the bride, groom and their officiant, and stayed to watch the entire ceremony.

The guide became emotional and even shed a few tears. At one point, she rested her hand on her heart.

“As a wedding photographer myself, I am always noticing little moments of human connection, and this one could not be missed,” Sorensen shares. “We were all so moved by her sweet reaction — for a couple she didn’t even know!

Read more on people.com.

 Norristown Launches Block by Block Program to Enhance Downtown Cleanliness and Hospitality 

Norristown, PA — The Norristown Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the launch of a new Clean and Safe initiative in partnership with Block by Block, a national leader in downtown improvement services. Beginning this summer, Block by Block’s Ambassador Program will be implemented throughout downtown Norristown to support a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming experience for residents, visitors, and business owners. 

With a highly visible team of trained Ambassadors, the program will focus on removing litter and graffiti, providing hospitality to visitors, pressure washing sidewalks, and maintaining the public right of way. The Ambassadors will also support special events and offer friendly assistance to anyone navigating Norristown’s downtown area. 

“The Norristown Ambassadors program shows what can happen when we come together with clear purpose. This partnership between the Municipality, the Norristown Chamber of Commerce, and Montgomery County is making a visible difference in how our downtown looks, feels and operates. We’re committed to building a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming community — and this is a step in the right direction. When we align efforts and take action together, progress follows.” — Leonard Lightner, Municipal Administrator, Municipality of Norristown 

The Block by Block program will operate under a flexible, turnkey model, managing all aspects of service delivery, staffing, scheduling, and reporting. Norristown Ambassadors will be equipped with tools and technology—including the SMART System, a proprietary platform that tracks cleaning activity, community interactions, and graffiti removal to provide transparency and measure impact. 

“I’m beyond excited to see this partnership come to life! For months, we’ve been collaborating closely with the County and the Municipality to bring this vision to reality, and now it’s finally here! Through the Block by Block program, we are collectively investing in Norristown’s economic future and vibrancy. This collaboration is a testament to our shared commitment to making Norristown’s 

streets cleaner, our spaces safer, and creating an environment that is welcoming for all. This is the momentum we’ve been waiting for to make Norristown a place where businesses thrive and residents take pride. The Norristown Chamber of Commerce has always been an agency of action, committed to being ‘where business and community come together,’ and this is just the beginning of what we can achieve through powerful partnerships and vision!” 

— Kym Ramsey, President/CEO, Norristown Chamber of Commerce 

Block by Block has a proven track record, serving over 170 districts nationwide including programs in Philadelphia, Detroit, and Camden. The Norristown program will begin with a two-week deep clean to address existing litter, graffiti, and debris, followed by daily Ambassador patrols during both peak and off-peak seasons. 

Block by Block is thrilled to be an integral part of this collective effort aimed at enhancing the conditions in our downtown area. It is clear that our mission to make the streets cleaner and safer while fostering a welcoming atmosphere resonates deeply with the shared objectives of our team. 

We are eager to combine our strengths and expertise to achieve meaningful progress. Our team is passionate about creating initiatives that not only beautify the neighborhood but also enhance safety for all who live, work, and visit here. The positive changes we envision require teamwork and collaboration, and we are here to support and contribute in every way we can 

WEST PALM BEACH DDA COMBINES DOWNTOWN AMBASSADOR SERVICES THROUGH PARTNERSHIP WITH BLOCK BY BLOCK

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (April 18, 2024)—The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) today announced a five-year partnership with Block by Block. This partnership combines multiple services into one provider, allowing the DDA to more efficiently address the growing needs of the downtown district. During a three-stage phase-in schedule, Block by Block will assume management of downtown’s safety, cleaning, and pressure washing services with a new team of Ambassadors.

“By combining these services, the DDA will have more flexibility to quickly reassign resources as the needs of the downtown community continue to evolve,” said Raphael Clemente, executive director of the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority. “We will also have improved data collection through Block by Block’s integrated reporting system, which will allow us to identify any specific sections of downtown that might need increased attention.”

Clean Team Ambassadors are dedicated to maintaining cleanliness throughout the district. Duties encompass emptying trash cans, removing graffiti, pressure washing sidewalks and streets, weed control, handbill removal, and more. Safety and Hospitality Ambassadors are trained to provide assistance and information to residents, visitors, and merchants. Acting as the eyes and ears for Downtown West Palm Beach, they will collaborate with the City of West Palm Beach Police Department to improve the urban environment for constituents, aid in homeless outreach, and conduct street patrols throughout downtown.

“We at Block by Block are eager about getting to work in West Palm Beach. We aim to improve all the traits that make downtown West Palm Beach a great place to live, work, and play,” said John S. Koch, Division Vice President of Block By Block.

Block by Block has developed an optimized operating model based on best practices, research and development, and modern technology throughout a more than 20-year history. This model has attracted partners in more than 150 locations across the United States.

For more information about the DDA, visit DowntownWPB.com or call 561-833-8873.

About the Downtown Development Authority

The West Palm Beach DDA is an independent taxing district created in 1967 by a special act of the Florida Legislature. Its mission is to promote and enhance a safe, vibrant Downtown for our residents, businesses and visitors through the strategic development of economic, social and cultural opportunities.

For more information about the DDA or Downtown West Palm Beach, please visit DowntownWPB.com or call the DDA at (561) 833-8873.

DTSF Ambassadors keep downtown clean and safe

Original article by: Gracie Terrall, Keloland News First

If you’re wondering who the people in bright red shirts cleaning up garbage downtown are, they’re the new Downtown Sioux Falls Ambassadors and their job is to keep the area clean and safe for everyone.

Since 2021, Martin Dill was the sole ambassador and took care of the downtown upkeep by himself. Recently, DTSF hired six more people to serve as ambassadors of downtown and help with cleanup and safety.

“You’ll be going along cleaning up and you can kind of tell when people are looking a little lost, they’re staring at the maps or their phones and you go up to them like, ‘Hi, can I help you folks with something?’ And nine times out of ten they are looking for something and we chat them up a little bit,” Dill said.

The ambassadors clean sidewalks, recommend restaurants to newcomers, report suspicious activity, help people in need of assistance and handle the trash and recycling bins.

“People have commented mostly about the cleanliness,” Dill said. “I’ve had a lot of people comment that they’ve seen the staff. They say, ‘We’ve seen you guys all over the place and it looks really clean. There’s no trash or cigarette butts anywhere.’ That’s fantastic, that means we’re doing our job.”

With the additional staff, they are able to reach more areas of downtown than before. They focus on Phillips Avenue and East 8th Street every day and clean adjacent streets like Main and Dakota a few times a week.

Dravyn Alarconsides started working as an ambassador last week and he’s already been interacting with business owners and customers.

“I picked up trash and learned how to sweep up the things in the gutter, pick up cigarette butts and say hello to business owners here in town,” Alarconsides said. “We have business cards that we actually give people to let them know that we’re down here trying to make the downtown area safer for individuals to promote people wanting to have businesses down here.”

Apart from keeping the downtown sidewalks clean, safety is a huge part of an ambassador’s role. They do patrols on bicycles throughout downtown from Falls Park to the river walk and nearby bike trails four times a day. The ambassadors also assist the police and call in suspicious activity.

Alarconsides said he had to call the non-emergency police number Wednesday morning to request help with an unhoused man threatening people. Alarconsides said the situation was handled swiftly.

Sometimes, Dill found that just talking and having a conversation with unhoused people can help them if they’re having a bad day. He said ambassadors help give unhoused people rides to Bishop Dudley Hospitality House or The Link, a community detox center.

“With the unhoused population, just getting an opportunity to chat with people, see how their day is going,” Dill said. “Every once in a while, if someone is having a really bad day, they just appreciate the fact that somebody talked to them about it. It’s what we’re here for.”

According to Tenley Schwartz, the marketing director for DTSF, funding for the ambassador expansion came from the Business Improvement District (BID). These are funds that all property owners in the geographical area of downtown pay to maintain property value and safety. DTSF recently updated the BID structure, which hadn’t been updated in over 30 years, after seeing the positive outcome of Dill’s work as a sole ambassador to allow DTSF to hire more ambassadors.

Schwartz said the program will likely continue into the far future now that they have the funding and are hearing the feedback from downtown businesses and customers.

“The plan is to keep improving the process, keep training these folks to do a really great job when they’re representing our city,” Schwartz said. “We’d like to see this continue in perpetuity to make sure that downtown stays a place that feels welcoming.”

A Heart Made For Serving

Ambassador Spotlight: Clarence France

In the bustling city of Minneapolis, there are countless unsung heroes working behind the scenes, striving to make a positive impact on their community. Among these remarkable individuals is Clarence France, a Livability Ambassador whose unwavering dedication to his city and its people has touched the lives of many. With his love for Minneapolis and a burning desire to give back, Clarence embodies the true spirit of a Downtown Improvement District Ambassador.

With over four years of service under his belt, Clarence’s journey as a Livability Ambassador began with a role as a patroller on a segway. However, it wasn’t long before he felt a profound urge to do more for the people he encountered every day.

“It seemed like a calling,” Clarence reflects, “I wanted to help people.”

He attributes his involvement in the community as the catalyst for his journey. It is this genuine care and concern for all members of his community that has fueled his dedication to making a difference.

“This is my Minneapolis,” he says, his voice brimming with sincerity. “I care for the people in this city, whether you’re a millionaire or without a dollar in your pocket.”

Working as a Livability Ambassador is not Clarence’s first experience in a position of service. Having served in the Marine Corps for 16 years, his time in the military played a significant role in shaping his character and instilling a strong sense of duty. His experiences cultivated his unwavering commitment and strengthened his resolve to make a positive impact wherever he goes.

“I don’t need a thank you,” he emphasizes. “I do these things because they need to be done.”

Clarence strives to bring positivity to even the most negative situations, believing that compassion and empathy are vital in building trust with others. His genuine desire to make a lasting difference is evident. Each day, Clarence wakes up with gratitude, especially when he’s out in the field, knowing that he has the opportunity to touch lives and make a difference. His passion for people enables him to pour his heart and soul into his job as a Livability Ambassador.

“I want to make sure I tell people ‘I’ll see them later’ so they know they aren’t alone,” he shares.

Clarence’s journey has not been without its challenges. Dealing with dyslexia and having experienced the effects of a flash bomb, he sometimes faces communication obstacles. But these challenges have only strengthened his resolve to overcome adversity and continue making a difference.

Outside of his work, Clarence fills his free time with a range of hobbies and adventures. Exploring the beauty of Minnesota through river walks and kayaking, playing the guitar, and engaging in various sports activities – he thrives on staying active and continually learning.

“After I was a veteran, I needed to discover new things. I love doing something and staying busy. I am always learning and trying new things.” Clarence shares, making his thirst for knowledge and zest for life evident.

Clarence’s unwavering commitment to Minneapolis and its people serves as a shining example of what it means to be a Livability Ambassador. His genuine care, compassion, and unwavering dedication have touched the lives of many, proving that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a significant impact.

“This is my Minneapolis. This is why I want to make a difference, no matter how big or small,” Clarence adds.