Last summer, there were 28 Community Block Parties that took place in neighbourhoods across Chestermere, courtesy of Chestermere Community Services and their free block party kits.
This year, Chestermere Community Services (CS) will once again be offering the Community Connections: Block Party Kits free of charge to residents of Chestermere and South East Rockyview.
The Block Party Kits contain a variety of items to ensure the perfect outdoor party for all ages, from cups and cutlery to sidewalk chalk and footballs. These kits are available to residents for use during the weekends in the summer from May to September. Each registered block party also ensures street barricades, proper notification and promotion around the community.
Don’t have a BBQ big enough to host your entire block? That’s no problem because in addition to the supplies, residents have the option of borrowing the city’s industrial-size BBQ – but you better register early to get it booked.
“Registration is well underway, but there are still many dates in the summer when the BBQ is available to loan, particularly on Fridays and Sundays,” states Beth-Anna Van Dellen, FCSS Outreach Worker at CS. “Should the BBQ already be booked on a desired date, residents can still borrow a Block Party Kit, and simply opt to use their own BBQ.”
As an extra bonus, early registration for this program can qualify individuals for a gift certificate for enough food for up to 36 people, generously provided by M&M Meats and Lakeridge Church. And you will want to make sure to have lots of food available because City councillors, police and/or firemen have even been known to stop by to join in the fun.
“Chestermere Community Services has offered Block Party Kits to residents of Chestermere and South East Rocky View for the past several years. This is an amazing program which builds a sense of connection and community within our city, as neighbors get to know and care for one another,” said Van Dellen.
“It develops resilience, interdependence, and a sense of abundant community. In urban areas, this can do a great deal in reducing isolation, reliance on social services, and even crime. We love to see Chestermere neighborhoods taking advantage of this program, and providing these kits makes it easy and affordable for those planning the events.”
To learn more or to book your block party, call Beth-Anna, Community Outreach Worker at 403-207-7047
