GOSHEN — NeighborWorks America recently recognized LaCasa Inc.’s Julia King with a National Community Building and Organizing Award.

King was one of nine individuals across the country to receive the award at the program’s annual meeting Feb. 18 in Atlanta.

The award recognizes individuals in the community-building field who are committed to supporting resident-led activities, offer leadership development opportunities and allow community-building activities to foster social capital among neighbors. “I literally couldn’t get this without (them),” she said.

King said the award was really a testament to the community and those who are willing to participate in activities that improve the city. She believed NeighborWorks paid special attention to the Middlebury Street Mural and other similar activities intended to improve neighborhoods.

“I’ve observed Julia help even the most isolated neighbor find their opportunity to connect and contribute to the larger good,” LaCasa president Larry Gautsche said in a release from the organization.

NeighborWorks is an organization that works to create opportunities for people to improve their lives and communities by providing access to home ownership and to safe and affordable rental housing.