We have neighbours wherever we live, but we do not always know them or have a good relationship with them. In a divisive and strife-ridden world, building and nurturing relationships with the people who live nearby can create a safer, more vibrant community for everyone, especially families with children. Strong neighbourly connections foster a sense of belonging, improve safety and build a supportive network for all.
Great neighbours are invaluable. They offer more than just companionship — they foster a sense of community that can transform an entire neighbourhood. When neighbours look out for one another, they help create an environment where everyone feels safe and supported. For families, having reliable neighbours can provide peace of mind, knowing there are trusted people nearby who can lend a hand in times of need. Good neighbours also share resources, knowledge and responsibilities, saving time, money and even space. Over time, these interactions build a foundation of trust and mutual respect, making life easier for everyone. Here are some ways neighbours can support each other every day:
• Neighbours who look out for each other can help reduce crime rates and increase the overall sense of security. Participating in a local neighbourhood watch program, for instance, enables residents to keep an eye out for
suspicious activities and report them, creating a safer environment for everyone.
• Neighbours can offer practical help, like picking up mail, babysitting, jump-starting a car or carpooling. These small gestures save time and provide peace of mind, especially in emergencies. Living near others means creating a built-in support network for unexpected events, like a house alarm going off, a pet getting loose, or a sighting of wildlife in the area. Neighbours can quickly share information that keeps everyone safe.
• Long-time residents can be an invaluable resource for newcomers, offering insights into the best local shops, restaurants, parks and schools. This sharing of knowledge helps new residents settle in more quickly and
strengthens bonds within the community.
• Sometimes, borrowing is better than buying. Neighbours can share larger, costly equipment like lawnmowers or snow blowers, saving both space and money. Additionally, when someone runs out of a household essential, a nearby neighbour can often come to the rescue.
• Diverse neighbourhoods provide residents with the opportunity to share skills and cultural knowledge. For instance, a newcomer might learn English from a local neighbour in exchange for teaching their native language or sharing a traditional recipe. Younger neighbours might help older residents with tasks like lawn mowing or snow shoveling, fostering intergenerational connections.
• Neighbours provide a built-in social network. Kids can make friends to play and study with, while adults can organize book clubs, exercise groups or other social activities. These shared experiences can help build
friendships and strengthen community bonds. Knowing the benefits of having great neighbours, it’s important to take proactive steps to cultivate these relationships.
Here are some practical ways to build positive connections with those around you:
- Find out and abide by strata and/or city bylaws related to animal care, noise and parking to ensure you are being considerate of others.
- • Check to see if your province offers local neighbourhood grants to help residents to meet and connect to build a sense of community.
- • Model respectful behaviour for children by teaching them the importance of being considerate of neighbours’ needs, privacy, space and lifestyle, while also setting healthy boundaries.
- • Ensure children and pets play only in designated safe areas and slow down when driving around neighbourhoods where pets and children are active.
- • When meeting new neighbours, start with friendly gestures — host a party, send a welcoming gift basket, or organize a playdate for the children.
Being a good neighbour is about creating positive, lasting connections with those who share our community. By taking small steps to connect, help and support one other, we create neighbourhoods that are safer, friendlier and
more resilient.
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