This month, residents are encouraged to take part in the Great Neighbourhoods program, an annual celebration of what makes Red Deer’s neighbourhoods great.

“There are so many wonderful aspects about the neighbourhoods where we live that help give us a sense of belonging and pride,” said Emily Damberger, community and program facilitator with the City of Red Deer. “When we get out and explore our neighbourhood and get to know our neighbours, it creates a safe, welcoming community that everyone wants to call home.”

The City of Red Deer’s Great Neighbourhoods program provides resources and activities to help people explore their neighbourhood including the Activities in Belonging Guide and Activ Kidz Neighbourhood Discovery Book. Both guides are available online.

“Exploring your neighbourhood can be easy and fun,” said Damberger. “Go for a walk, say hello to a neighbour, lend out your ladder, keep an eye on suspicious activity, plant a garden, play in the park, or host a Block Party with neighbours. These are all great ways to keep pride in your neighbourhood.”

Other online resources include ‘Thank you, neighbour!’ cards, a Great Neighbourhoods Block Party guide, and links to community gardening and crime prevention information, community association listings, and picnic packs available to help get you out having fun in your neighbourhood park.

This year’s overall theme is, ‘Small acts build great neighbourhoods.’

“You can start a community project, like a community garden or a Green Deer clean-up, or start something small,” says Damberger. “Just be taking a few minutes to connect, participate and celebrate your neighbourhood, you help build a great neighbourhood,” adds Damberger.

The Great Neighbourhoods program also marks each week in May with a theme – Participation Week (May 18–24) and Celebration Week (May 25–31).

For information about the Great Neighbourhoods Program is available at www.reddeer.ca/great.

– Fawcett