If you’re the kind of person who has complained more than once about how “no one seems to know their neighbors these days,” you’ve probably felt like a broken record. “There’s no sense of community!” “Everyone is always on their cell phones!” “Young people these days don’t even know how to date without a social media app!” Sound familiar?
While these critiques of modern social life may get laughed off as old-fashioned thinking, there’s actually some truth to them. Pew research has shown that each year, Americans become less and less involved in their local communities. Social media certainly plays a role, and for many of us, it can be difficult even to know where to begin to connect with people in our community. Here are five easy tips for doing just that.
Take it Out Front
It’s no coincidence that as communities have gotten less and less close-knit, people have retreated from the front of their homes to the back. While front porches and kids playing on the sidewalk used to be the norm, these days, people are much more likely to want a spacious backyard for all of their outdoor leisure. Hanging out in your front yard, rather than in back, will help you to meet your neighbors and give you an eye over the block.
Organize a Block Party
Block parties are still a thing in many cities and suburban communities, but if you live in a smaller town or less established area, you might not enjoy the benefits of an annual block party. If this is the case, organize the event yourself! Spread the word through social media, flyers and mailers, and provide plenty of reasons for your neighbors to show up (think live music, good food and drinks).
Join or Start a Community Garden
If you have some empty space in your community, consider asking your local officials to consider turning it into a community garden. Or better yet, if one already exists, join! Even if there are no plots available, simply spending time in your community garden will help you meet new neighbors.
Go to School Games
There’s one community pillar that will probably never disappear, no matter how popular social media gets: school sports. Even if you don’t have children or don’t particularly enjoy sports, showing your community spirit is always encouraged. Head to a game to cheer on your local students and meet some new friends.
Be a Host
Finally, the art of a good old-fashioned cocktail or dinner party is always in style. Play host to your neighbors, inviting them by slipping a card into their mailbox or simply knocking on their door. At the event, encourage your neighbors to take up the role of host themselves — perhaps your little soiree could become a bi-monthly neighborhood gathering.
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