Project Imagine is introducing a new community coin program designed to strengthen connections between young people and the community by recognizing personal achievement while encouraging positive experiences with local businesses.
The initiative is built around a commemorative coin awarded to participants who have successfully completed at least 90 days in Project Imagine and reached Level 2 of the program, demonstrating progress toward goals such as improved school performance, stronger family relationships, and positive decision-making.
The coin serves as both a symbol of accomplishment and a passport to participating businesses, where young people can redeem it for a small reward or experience. Their first visit is made alongside a Project Imagine outreach worker, who introduces them to business owners and staff, helping remove the anxiety that can come with entering unfamiliar places.
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"Many of the young people we work with have never had the opportunity to visit some of these businesses or simply don't feel like they belong there," said Robert David, violence prevention manager for the City of Danville and head of the Project Imagine program. "The coin represents much more than a reward. It represents success, belonging, and a connection to the community. When young people feel welcomed and valued, they begin to see themselves as part of something bigger."
Participating businesses will display a window decal identifying them as community coin partners, creating welcoming spaces where young people know they are accepted.
The program also benefits local businesses by introducing new customers who may become regular patrons. A youth who visits a business for the first time with an outreach worker may later return with family or friends, creating new traditions while strengthening ties between residents and the local business community.
The community coin initiative builds on Project Imagine's ongoing enrichment activities, which introduce participants to college campuses, sporting events, restaurants, and other destinations they may not have previously experienced. These outings are intended to broaden perspectives, increase confidence, and foster a stronger sense of belonging.
Project Imagine leaders say the concept is rooted in evidence-based violence prevention principles that emphasize connectedness, self-efficacy, and positive identity.
"When young people feel connected to their community, they are more likely to respect it and invest in it," David said. "This program helps replace isolation with opportunity. It gives young people tangible recognition for their hard work while helping them build relationships with businesses and community members who simply get to know them as kids—not labels."
The recognition aspect of the coin mirrors achievement badges earned through organizations such as the Boy Scouts or milestone coins presented during recovery programs. By earning the coin, participants receive a visible reminder of the progress they have made and an incentive to continue growing.
The first group of approximately 10 Project Imagine participants is expected to receive community coins as the program launches. City officials hope to expand the initiative as additional businesses join the effort.
Project Imagine is a City of Danville violence prevention initiative focused on helping young people develop positive relationships, achieve personal goals, and build brighter futures through mentorship, outreach, and community engagement.
Businesses interested in becoming community coin partners are encouraged to contact Project Imagine for more information.
