Help build community spirit

There are many ways to create engagement and spirit in your neighbourhood. You can get involved in creating neighbourhood parks or gardens for everyone to enjoy. You can start a weekly ball hockey game with children and parents on your street. You can also organize a special event and make it a tradition every year. You might be surprised just how many people jump on board when a good idea is offered. 

Don’t forget to cast a wide net when approaching other neighbours to participate. Mothers and fathers, seniors and young people, newcomers, friends, colleagues - everyone has something to contribute. One of the issues that can divide communities the most is fear – of people with different cultures and religions, people with different languages, people with disabilities, the young and the old, and people who might just look or act a bit different. It is only through getting to know people that you can rid a neighbourhood of these fears and build stronger communities. 

Strong, inclusive and collaborative partnerships are key to building better neighbourhoods. Being as welcoming as you can of different people, their skills and opinions, will help open the doors for everyone to contribute and to learn new things. Bringing together people from all ages and stages and walks of life helps break down barriers and bridge the gaps between all of us.