The other day I waved at a neighbour and said, “see you in the spring!” I chuckled to myself as I said it, because in Alberta, it’s all too true. In the summer, while we’re gardening, playing with the kids in the park, or walking our dog, it’s easier to connect with the neighbours on our street. Warm, long, summer days beckon us outside and the smell of barbecue inspire us to invite new friends over for a hamburger and a drink. But when the cold sets in and the snow piles high, it’s a whole different story. We rush to get back in where it’s warm and settle down for the long winter.
Winter is a challenge for those of us who hope to create a vibrant neighbourhood culture. The very best cities have, at their core, the ability to inspire community connections, a deep sense of togetherness, and a passion for making their city feel like home for everyone. However it seems that the deep freeze of winter can also affect the opportunities we have to meet each other.
There’s good news: we’re Albertans. Not only are we resilient, but we care for those around us and strive to create vibrant cities and neighbourhoods, no matter the season. You can make a difference where you live. Here are six simple ideas to help you connect with your neighbours this winter and bring warmth to your street.
• Keep an eye on your neighbour’s home. Your neighbour may be elderly, ill, or alone and may need to know that someone is looking out for them. Is their sidewalk un-shovelled? Maybe it’s an opportunity for you to check in on them and see if they need a hand. Everyone needs to be reminded that they are not forgotten.
• Update your contact sheet. If you needed to call on a neighbour for help, do you know their phone number? Write your contact info on a piece of paper and take it to your neighbours, it’s a simple way of expanding your connections on your street.
• Tea and coffee take a moment to brew, invite your neighbour over for a late afternoon visit. Most neighbours are happy to drop by.
• Is there a new family on your block? Did you know that the first few connections a family makes when they move to a new city are some of the most impactful? Your kindness to newcomers can have a profoundly positive effect on their lives.
• In spite of the cold, make a habit of getting out of the house and walking through your neighbourhood.
• Winter party anyone? Nothing can push back the winter doldrums like a party. From a backyard fire pit, to a skate party down on the lake, to a potluck feast. There are many ways that you can gather people this time of year. In fact, a neighbour on our street recently hired a horse drawn sleigh and invited the neighbours along for a ride; it was fantastic!
Remember that by simply reaching out to your neighbours this winter you play a vital role in making Chestermere a beautiful place to live. How have you “warmed up the neighbourhood” in the past? Email your stories to preston@lakeridgecommunity.com.
