Neighborhood Engagement

See pictures under our "Abolish Hunger Now" post.

We are believers in neighborhood engagement. Our interests range from fitness and recreation, to leisure and hobbies, to caring for neighbors through relationship-based resources at the neighborhood level coupled with coordinated sustainability efforts. Last night two members of our team drove to a church in NE Portland to watch "Life of Pi". There we had comfortable seating, ample space, heavenly refreshments, enjoyed talking to people we know and didn't know. In late August, a professional opera singer is bringing her talents to a church in our own neighborhood. We have a neighbor that sings popular music in a quartet and we attend two or three performances a year. Another neighbor invited us to attend a Greek history class. One of our team accepted the invitation, not because of a desire to learn about Greek history, but to develop a good relationship with our neighbor. In turn she accepted the invitation to go to a six week nutrition class nearby.

We envision neighborhoods as a place with organized bicycle rides, local hikes, book clubs, nutrition classes, ball games, and movies. A couple months ago our consulting manager visited Rahab's Sisters. This organization meets in Portland near 82nd avenue and reaches out to women affected by prostitution and homelessness. We value this organization because services are provided on the front porch of where these things take place. Access is everything whether people are marginalized by society, lack financial resources or transportation. Bringing services down to the neighborhood level improves access and helps build relationships. In our post "Abolish Hunger Now" there is a sign listing community partners. This concept can be used at the neighborhood level, by inviting businesses, churches, nonprofits, the neighborhood association and others together.

First describe strengths of your neighborhood. Second, dare to envision a vibrant neighborhood characterized by neighbors that know each other, make good use of public parks and other public spaces, and offer a wealth of free activities for all to enjoy. Engagement needs to happen at all levels. Think about hosting a MOM's group, indoor play park, after school program, sports camp, day camps, art drop in center, teen drop in center. For families consider potlucks in the park or a progressive dinner (one course at each of several homes), family basketball or swim, camp outs, scavenger hunts and guided bike tours. The possibilities are endless. Seniors need to belong too. Many are able to read to children, serve as surrogate grand parents, teach a young person a trade or skill.

Rather than churches, businesses and special interest completing, invite representatives to the table. Work together to develop a composite talent pool and times of availability. Once the calendar is fleshed out and meets diverse neighborhood needs, ask community partners to provide resources. Resources may include facilities, equipment, personnel or finances. Try marketing activities with a neighborhood calendar. Use EventBrite to manage signups and track interest and attendance. Track volunteer hours and services provided to aid in securing additional funding. Simple statistics can be used to measure and communicate the value of neighborhood engagement.