When moving into a new community, it can be helpful for residents to get to know their neighbours to form a sense of belonging. One way of doing this is by joining a community association.
What a community association is:
Also known as a residents’ association, community associations are formed when groups of neighbours come together to share their ideas and work cooperatively to make their neighbourhood a better place to live.
The benefits of a community association:
Community associations have the potential to give residents the opportunity to speak with a unified voice and become an advocate in their area. They can foster support systems and strengthen connections by engaging people in the area through social events and working towards common goals.
This includes organizing community clean-ups, increasing safety initiatives, monitoring development proposals, as well as, working to protect natural/heritage areas, and raising funds to improve parks, amenities, infrastructure and more.
Community associations have the capability of enriching the quality of life in a neighbourhood and can provide a shared sense of community kinship for its residents.
Tips on starting a community association:
It is always a good idea to talk to existing community associations to gain insights into what has worked and what hasn’t in their neighbourhoods. This can be helpful when structuring an association, organizing events and deciding on where to prioritize your time. The best way to find out how to improve your neighbourhood is to ask your fellow residents. This is where you’ll find the needs and wants of your community.
Another powerful tool to consider when forming a community association is to have legal guidance. This allows an organization to become a legal entity which adds a level of recognition by politicians and administration.
Becoming a part of a community association or organization is a great way to give back to your neighbourhood and connect with other residents. It can enhance family supports such as connecting with babysitters and other professionals during social events. This connection also helps strengthen the safety of a community because people who know each other are often more willing to look out for one another. Not to mention, having a community association gives residents the opportunity to help shape their neighbourhood into one that they can cherish for years to come.