The first annual Iowa City Downtown Block Party held in July was an epic experience. Live music, giant jenga, sand volleyball, public art installations, a fashion show, an alleyway movie, and dozens of other events took place throughout the pedestrian mall and surrounding blocks from 5 to 11 p.m. The NM team stopped by earlier in the day to help set up tables, chairs, tents, water buckets, banners, and fencing to prepare for the big night. As an incentive for volunteer groups to sign up, the Downtown District awarded a $450 cash sponsorship, which we chose to pay forward to the Iowa City Domestic Violence Intervention Program (DVIP). DVIP provides support and advocacy services to victims and survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and human trafficking. For more information on the DVIP, visit www.dvipiowa.org