ONE LINDEN

Columbus City Council is accepting applications for the newly established Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, created through Ordinance 2517-2024 and sponsored by Councilmember Lourdes Barroso de Padilla. This 15-member commission aims to amplify immigrant voices in city policies, with one seat reserved for an emerging leader aged 18-25. Commissioners will serve staggered two- or three-year terms, focusing on advocacy, policy recommendations, and community engagement. Applicants must reside in Columbus and identify as immigrants, refugees, or children of immigrants or refugees. The application deadline is February 16, 2025.

The Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO) offers the Event Waste Reduction Grant to assist local event organizers in minimizing waste and promoting recycling, composting, and reuse initiatives. Eligible public events within Franklin County, Ohio, scheduled for 2025 and expecting at least 2,000 attendees, can apply for grants ranging from $2,000 to $6,000, depending on attendance figures. Applicants are required to provide a 20% cash contribution toward the project and must submit their applications at least eight weeks before the event date.

The Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO) offers an Event Container Loan Program to assist Franklin County public events in effectively reducing waste through recycling and composting. Organizers can borrow up to 100 dual-stream CeroBins for recycling and landfill waste, and 20 ClearStream containers for compost collection. These collapsible containers are easy to transport and set up, with signage attached to the lid. To participate, events must be open to the public and located within SWACO's jurisdiction. Organizers should complete the online request form at least two weeks before the event. A $10 deposit per container is required, refundable upon return. After the event, organizers are asked to report the amounts of materials recycled, composted, and landfilled to SWACO.

Columbus City Council is now accepting applications for its 2025 Summer Internship Program, running from May to July! This paid opportunity ($17/hour) is open to rising college juniors, seniors, and first-year graduate students, offering hands-on experience in government. Interns will work up to 20 hours per week in offices such as Councilmember Offices, Communications, Community Engagement, Legislative Research, or the City Clerk’s Office. Participants will gain a deep understanding of the legislative process through policy analysis, constituent relations, and more. To apply, complete the online form and send a 1-3 page writing sample and resume to NIWalters@columbus.gov by Friday, February 28, 2025. Don’t miss this chance to build your skills and make an impact!

Get ready for the annual COSI Science Festival, happening April 30 - May 3, 2025, and showcase your creativity by hosting a Community STEAM Event! We’re calling on neighborhood businesses, nonprofits, school groups, and more to be part of this regional celebration of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. Applications to host events or exhibit at the Big Science Celebration are now open—but don’t wait! The deadline to apply is just a month away. For inspiration, check out the 2024 Event Archive to see past events, or pitch your own exciting, fresh ideas. Let’s come together to inspire curiosity and innovation in our community—apply today!

The City of Columbus is taking action to protect residents and impacted individuals following the recent cyber-attack on the city’s IT infrastructure by offering free Experian credit monitoring services. This service includes two years of protection against fraud and identity theft, with up to $1 million in coverage. The deadline to enroll has been extended to March 31, 2025, so don’t miss this opportunity to safeguard your personal information. Columbus residents, as well as non-residents who’ve shared personal information with the city or municipal court, can sign up by visiting www.columbus.gov/cyber or calling 1-833-918-5161 with the code B129833. Enroll today to activate your coverage and gain peace of mind!