The VCA has completed neighborhood beautification projects including the creation of a welcoming entrance into the community and the development of the Valley Nature Park and Habitat Trail, which won the Civic Empowerment Award from the Buffalo Niagara All American City Committee. Working in conjunction with then New York State Assemblyman Mark Schroeder, with the help of the the New York State Power Authority, the VCA has acquired land along the Buffalo River and is creating a public park on the banks of the river now called Buffalo River Fest Park. Opened in June 2011, Buffalo River Fest Park was the beginning of the redevelopment along the shore of the Buffalo River.