Community Initiatives

Mayor Marks enthusiastically serves the community through a variety of community outreach programs. Use the links below to learn more about each program, including how you can get involved!

Mayor Marks reading to a group of studentsTallahassee: A City That Reads

"There are few things more important than teaching children the love of reading. In today's society of high tech, fast paced living it would be easy to take for granted the basic necessity and pure joy associated with reading. As parents, grandparents or just good community citizens it is vital for all of us to do all we can to encourage kids to read and to help them create a lifetime love affair with books."

In 2008, the Office of the Mayor commenced an exciting partnership with WFSU and PBS Raising Readers, which increased the scope and activities of the Tallahassee: A Community that Reads program. Now, through the combined efforts of project partners, and additionally with assistance from Leon County Schools, Barnes and Noble, the City of Tallahassee, Tallahassee Community College, Martha Speaks, and Mayor Marks reading to a group of studentsother sponsors, this program can do even more to promote literacy throughout our community. Currently, the program releases the Mayor's monthly book list, which features a selection of books chosen for parents and children to enjoy together. The goal of this program is to foster and develop a love for reading and encourage daily reading by citizens of all ages. Come join the fun and get reading with our monthly book list!

Since this program began in 2008, Mayor Marks, working with WFSU and PBS Kids, has read to more than 4000 children at 18 different events, including summer camps, block parties, and visits to elementary schools.

Mayor holding little girlVolunteer Opportunities

There are hundreds of opportunities for Tallahassee citizens to get more involved in their local community. One way to be a voice for the community is to apply for a position on a Citizen Advisory Board/Committee.

Citizen Advisory Boards serve as the eyes and ears for many areas of city policy making. During regular meetings, they research and discuss important issues in their area of interest and report back to the City Departments, Mayor and City Commission.

If interested in making a difference in this way, visit our Citizen Advisory Board page for more information and a downloadable application.