‘The community you want starts at your front door’
Neighbour Day is Australia’s annual celebration of community, encouraging people to connect with those who live in their neighbourhood.
Neighbour Day (an initiative of Relationships Australia), is celebrated on the last Sunday in March. It is a day when we’re encouraged to connect with, and celebrate the connections we have with, the people who live in our neighbourhood. Since 2003, Neighbour Day has progressed from a reminder to connect with elderly neighbours to an annual celebration of strong communities and friendly streets. People of all ages participate because everyone, everywhere is a neighbour no matter where you live or your personal circumstances.
Neighbour Day brings together like-minded people, resources, and organisations to grow stronger, well connected communities. Social connection makes us feel better as it helps prevent loneliness, isolation and depression.
Neighbour Day is the perfect opportunity to say thanks for being a great neighbour and for being there to lend a hand. So don’t be shy!
5 WAYS to CONNECT during the COVID-19 crisis
Being a friendly neighbour helps create a caring community. ‘Kindness is something everyone can give’.
There are many actions, some big, some small, that you can take to help create a brighter place.
Here’s 5 ideas to safely connect with your neighbours:
- Host an online get together using one of the many free web-based meeting rooms. Everyone can dress up and join the online room in the safety of their own home
- Start a private online group to keep in touch and up to date. Or create a group chat with your neighbours (facebook messenger is one platform)
- Organise a Very Neighbourly Bake-Off but you don’t have to share the goodies! Everyone agrees to bake a creation and send photos – with awards for best looking cake or perhaps funniest failed attempt
- Start an online game such as Words with Friends
- Or simply leave note in a neighbours letterbox. Be sure to use good hand washing hygiene
Find more ideas and resources here or visit the Neighbour Day website.
