A new City of Powell River program designed to build connectedness and create identity within neighbourhoods is generating a lot of interest.
The kickoff for the new campaign, called Resilient Streets, takes place from 6:30 to 8 pm on Wednesday, June 6, in the Cedar Room at Powell River Recreation Complex.
Through the city’s parks, recreation and culture department, residents have access to tool kits, funding and a community trailer for neighbourhood parties.
“It's going to be a great program to build that connectedness and create identity within neighbourhoods,” said city manager of recreation Neil Pukesh, adding that the department is hoping to build on its successful block-party program in 2017 when eight neighbourhoods took part; that number could grow to 25 this year.
Two community groups have already submitted applications, including one from the city’s LGBT community. It has asked for a planning grant to have a block party for Pride at the Sycamore Commons garden in Townsite, according to organizer Kevin Wilson.
“The idea is mainly to bring together people in the LGBT2QIA community who wouldn't show up for an evening event in a bar,” said Wilson. “We like to try something different every now and again to give people options. This will be intended to focus on diversity and family in a public space.”
Almost everything is provided for: the tool kit to conceive the idea; a $50 grant for planning; and $200 for the event and use of the parks, recreation and culture department’s new community event trailer.
Pukesh said the trailer will be loaded with supplies such as tables, chairs, a sound system, barbecue, games, signage and road barricades.
“When you have your block party, we'll drop this off; all of your supplies in one location so you don't have to figure out where to get tables, where to get chairs or who has the electrical chords,” said Pukesh.
Neighbourhoods can push beyond the conventional block party to host community potlucks, park beautification projects, gardening parties, backyard barbecues, emergency preparedness events, blockwatch implementation, and arts and culture events.
Resilient Streets is a BC Healthy Communities Society plan to nudge neighbours toward being more neighbourly. Grants of $20,000 were awarded in June 2017 to four BC communities: Powell River, Richmond, Sechelt and Whistler.
Any neighbourhood in the region can apply and participate, from Saltery Bay to Lund.
Pukesh said there is purpose behind promoting the block parties.
“There are a lot of neighborhoods that don't know each other,” said Pukesh.
The many proven benefits of improving social connections between neighbours include becoming healthier, less isolated and increasing safety, he added.
“It's really giving people an outlet to make those connections,” said Pukesh, “and to get to know their neighbours.”
