Certification

A minimum of 60 credits is required for a neighborhood to become certified as a "Participating Sustainable Neighborhood". An additional 40 credits per year are necessary to maintain certification. Neighborhoods that earn 100 or more credits in the first year, and at least 70 credits each following year are recognized as "Outstanding Sustainable Neighborhoods".

The Eiber Neighborhood was one of the first to become certified as an Outstanding Sustainable Neighborhood.
https://sustainableneighborhoodnetwork.org/images/default-source/default-album/eiber-certification-city-council.jpg?sfvrsn=2

When a neighborhood expresses interest in participating in the Sustainable Neighborhood Network, the city hosts a workshop in order to familiarize the residents with the program and assist in brainstorming future workshops. The neighborhood then takes responsibility in organizing future workshops and events, though city staff are available as a resource.

Activities that are eligible for credit are divided into the following categories:

• Workshops: educational events designed to help resident achieve certain sustainability goals.
• Special Events: These should be neighborhood-wide activities that promote community involvement. Examples include canned food drives and litter clean-ups.
• Resources: Sources of information to assist residents in achieving sustainability goals. Examples include a Facebook page or community newsletter.
• Inventory: Data collection that can be used to institute and track sustainability goals.
• Implementation: A direct action that advances sustainability. Examples include building a compost or installing energy-efficient light bulbs. 

A workshop is held to educate residents about native landscaping.
http://i1266.photobucket.com/albums/jj522/LakewoodSNP/Eiber/photo3_zps7845d5c8.jpg?138

 Before an activity takes place, the appropriate project Proposal Form should be submitted and approved by the City. This also gives residents the chance to secure assistance from the City if it is needed. Once the the activity has taken place, a Credit Form must be submitted in order for credit to be received.

The number of credits earned for an event or workshop is dependent on the number of participating residents. The more people that participate, the more credits are awarded. Credits for resources and inventories are awarded based on the amount of time required to create and maintain the resource. Implementation requires that the neighborhood set several goals, such as the number of households that participate in switching to energy-efficient light bulbs by certain times. Credits are awarded as these goals are met.