A Moment with the Mayor: Connecting neighbours

The past two years have brought many struggles, challenges and even a blessing or two. It hasn’t been easy for many individuals to chat, reach out or connect with friends and family. It’s time to get further connected here in our city.

A few weeks ago, the team at Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) Lloydminster hosted a documentary at the Bud Miller Amphitheatre. One of the documentary’s striking statements was that the more connected we are to each other in our neighbourhood, the safer we feel. Part of being in a community means connecting.

As new neighbours move into our neighbourhoods, we have the opportunity to greet and welcome them to our street. This could be a great time to host a lawn party, deck gatherings, or even a street party with all your neighbours.

Some of us may feel like we don’t have the skill set to organize an event. We may not be sure about what is involved, and we all want what we do to be successful. With that in mind, the FCSS team at the City of Lloydminster can help. We’re looking for volunteers who will train and help you create great connected neighbourhoods and enhance the overall quality of life throughout our entire city. Are you interested? If you are, please visit Lloydminster.ca/NeighbourhoodConnector and complete the online application or stop by City Hall.

As a neighbourhood connector, you’ll receive training and resources. You’ll use innovative ways to connect with neighbours and help organize social gatherings and initiatives. Like a good neighbour, we will help you support your neighbourhood and grow community-building tools.

The FCSS team has other resources that are available at the above link. Another neat program is the FREE Block Party kits. My family borrowed one of these before COVID hit and enjoyed the fun contained in it.

One of the best ways to connect with neighbours is just to start. We have an amazing neighbourhood where we’re well connected, and we would love to see that across the city. Get out and meet your neighbours. You might be surprised at how much fun you could have!

See you around town!

Mayor Gerald S. Aalbers
City of Lloydminster