Know Your Neighbors

Community resilience starts with connection. The relationships you build now become your support network when it matters most.

The Research Is Clear

Studies consistently show that communities with strong social ties recover faster from disasters, have lower crime rates, and report better mental and physical health. Knowing your neighbors isn't just nice — it's protective.

Start Simple

Wave and Say Hello

It starts with acknowledgment. Make eye contact, wave, say good morning. Over time, brief greetings become conversations.

Introduce Yourself

When you see someone new, introduce yourself. Share your name and which unit or house you live in. Ask theirs. That's all it takes to start.

Exchange Contact Information

Phone numbers for emergencies. "If you ever need anything..." opens the door. Having contact info makes it easier to reach out when needed.

Small Gestures

Bring in a neighbor's trash cans. Share extra produce. Offer to collect mail when they're away. Small acts build trust and reciprocity.

Build Deeper Connections

Organize Gatherings

  • • Block parties or building cookouts
  • • Potlucks with low-commitment expectations
  • • Coffee meetups in a common area
  • • Neighborhood walks or cleanups
  • • Kid playdates that include parents

Create Communication Channels

  • • Building or block group chat
  • • Email list for neighborhood updates
  • • Bulletin board in common area
  • • Private social media group
  • • Regular newsletter (even simple)

Information Worth Knowing

About Your Neighbors:

  • • Names and contact information
  • • Who lives alone or might need extra help
  • • Who has young children or elderly family
  • • Any medical conditions or special needs (if shared)
  • • Languages spoken
  • • Work schedules (who's home during the day)

Skills and Resources in Your Community:

  • • Medical training (nurses, EMTs, doctors)
  • • Mechanical or repair skills
  • • Who has vehicles (especially trucks)
  • • Who has tools, generators, or supplies
  • • Language skills for translation
  • • Legal, financial, or other professional expertise

Looking Out for Vulnerable Neighbors

Some neighbors may face greater risks or have fewer resources. Building relationships now means you can help when they need it:

  • Elderly neighbors: Check in regularly, offer to help with errands
  • Disabled neighbors: Ask what support would be helpful, don't assume
  • Immigrant neighbors: Offer to help navigate systems, be a trusted resource
  • Single parents: Offer occasional help, emergency childcare contacts
  • Anyone isolated: Regular check-ins can be lifesaving

Overcoming Barriers

"I don't have time"

Start with what you're already doing. Say hello while getting mail. Chat briefly while walking the dog. It doesn't require extra time, just intentionality.

"It feels awkward"

It does at first. That's normal. A simple "Hi, I'm [name], I live in [location]" is enough. Most people appreciate the gesture.

"We have nothing in common"

You share a neighborhood. That's enough to start. You don't need to be friends — just familiar enough to help each other when needed.

"My neighbors aren't friendly"

Some won't reciprocate, and that's okay. Focus on those who do. Even a few connected neighbors create a network.

Resources