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Neighborhood Connection

The first step in connecting with your neighbors is getting to know them by name. You may have waved, but engaging in a conversation, even over the fence, is an intentional first step in communicating that you'd like a relationship.

How

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​Start by getting to know your eight closest neighbors. If you are the orange house in the middle of the grid to the right, work to meet the two neighbors on either side of you, the three across the street and the three behind you.  Fill in their names and phone numbers as you get to know them. ​Click to download the form.

Why

People who live in connected neighborhoods are:
  • Safer and there is less crime
  • Senior Citizens Live Longer
  • Children do better in school
After the initial introduction, it can sometimes be difficult to know how or when to reconnect with your new acquaintances. Our Neighborhood Connect Events and resources are intended to give you tangible steps to move past casual relationships with your neighbors, and to intentionally connect. One Joplin makes it easy!  See below for more information or contact us!

Neighborhood Connect Events

One Joplin wants to help you get to know your neighbors. If you're interested in hosting an event for your block or neighborhood, click one of the links below! 
Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Hosting
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​SPRING
​Ice Cream Social 

Invite your neighbors over to celebrate spring and share some ice cream too! 
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SUMMER

Watermelon Splash

Cool down with with refreshing watermelon. Have a seed spitting contest with your neighbors!

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FALL
​Pumpkin Carving and Chili

There's no better time than fall to get to know neighbors. Host a party coinciding with Halloween.
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WINTER
​Soup Social 

The winter months can be cold and dreary. Mix it up with a neighborhood get-together.

More Ways to Connect

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Go For a Walk

Walking is a powerful way to gain influence and presence in your area. When people see you walking, you become a “character” in the neighborhood. Take as many opportunities as possible to stop and visit with neighbors. This takes a little initiative, but it is worth the effort. As you become known in your neighborhood, you will become a trusted member of the community. ​
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Throw a Party

​Once you’ve gotten to know some of your neighbors, throw a party connected to a holiday, a sporting event, or just because. Make flyers and before the event hand them out, going door-to-door. Making this personal connection is the best way to ensure people show up. At the party, be sure to have a sign-up sheet for those who want to stay connected. See our Neighborhood Connect Events page for more ideas. 
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Start a Social Media Group

Now that you have everyone’s information, build on-going community. A couple days after the event, send letters, an email or make calls thanking people for coming to the party. Start a Facebook group, Nextdoor group or use another form of social media to stay connected with your neighbors, share inspiration and ideas on neighboring, communicate events, barter for goods, and ask for help. ​
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Share a Meal

As you begin to build trust with neighbors, be intentional. Invite a family, couple, or individual over for dinner or a Saturday brunch. Sharing a meal with someone provides excellent opportunities to know their story, laugh together, and share neighborhood news. You are communicating that you accept this person or family and that you are willing to be known and to know them.​
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Be Available 

Making time for others is a key part of neighboring. This requires us to slow down and be aware of the people entering and exiting our neighborhood. You can be available to your neighbors by working in your yard, getting to know the kids on the street, or spending time on your porch. If you see a neighbor outside, make it a point to talk to them. 
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Serve One Another

Serving others and asking for help, is a part of neighborliness. By asking for things you need or help with a project, and by being willing to help when asked, you give others a sense that you want a mutually beneficial relationship. You may not be a handyman, but you may be able to babysit, water their flowers while they’re away, or provide tutoring. You can also anticipate needs before you are asked: pulling out trash cans, shoveling snow, or picking up trash on your block.​​

Location

one joplin

320 E 4th St, Joplin, MO 64801

​Director@OneJoplin.com
417-726-9123

Contact Us

  • Home
  • About
    • Leadership
  • Community Data
    • Pathways to Prosperity
  • Get Involved
    • Join a Team
    • Poverty Simulation
    • One Joplin Summit