By Sheldon Spackman

So when was the last time someone gave you money to throw a party? ……….Yeah, me too. However, the City of Red Deer is doing just that for it’s residents. The “Great Neighbours” initiative aims to connect neighbours on your rural or urban block and help everyone get to know each other better!

Right now, city officials say Block Connectors are being recruited across Red Deer, Red Deer County, Bowden, Delburne, Elnora and Penhold, to informally connect neighbours. Block Connectors will be asked to:

• Have a friendly chat with the closest 10-20 households on the block.
• Help neighbours connect at an activity once a year.
• Receive training.

If you would like to become a Block Connector, contact Community Mobilizer Nora Smith at [email protected].

As for that money to throw a Block Party? That’s the “Spark Grant”. It provides a matching grant to help you build relationships and get to know your neighbours. However, applications must include 3 or more households interested in participating in the project, with applicants being able to apply for funding at any time. Program  Spokesperson Bobby-Jo Stannard says four community projects have already been funded by this grant.

City official say knowing your neighbours is also a great way to make the area safer, as you will be more inclined to look out for one another and each other’s homes and property.

Click Here for more information on the City of Red Deer’s Great Neighbours program!