Recently I made a list of 100 ways to engage your neighborhood. I have found that it is often helpful to have practical ideas to start engaging the people around me. Most of the things on this list are normal, everyday things that many people are already doing. The hope is that we would do these things with Gospel intentionality. This means we do them:
* In the normal rhythms of life pursuing to meet and engage new people
* Prayerfully watching and listening to the Holy Spirit to discern where God is working.
* Looking to boldly, humbly, and contextually proclaim the Gospel in word and deed.
Below is a list of my top 25. The full list of 100 is available to download below the list. Not all of these are for everyone, but hopefully there will be several ideas on the list that God uses to help you engage your neighbors. Would love to hear stories of how you have lived some of these out or other ways you have engaged your neighbors.
- Stay outside in the front yard longer while watering the yard
- Walk your dog regularly around the same time in your neighborhood
- Sit on the front porch and letting kids play in the front yard
- Pass out baked goods (fresh bread, cookies, brownies, etc.)
- Invite neighbors over for dinner
- Attend and participate in HOA functions
- Attend the parties invited to by neighbors
- Do a food drive or coat drive in winter and get neighbors involved
- Have a game night (yard games outside, or board games inside)
- Art swap night – bring out what you’re tired of and trade with neighbors
- Grow a garden and give out extra produce to neighbors
- Have an Easter egg hunt on your block and invite neighbors use their front yards
- Start a weekly open meal night in your home
- Do a summer BBQ every Friday night and invite others to contribute
- Create a block/ street email and phone contact list for safety
- Host a sports game watching party
- Host a coffee and dessert night
- Organize and host a ladies artistic creation night
- Organize a tasting tour on your street (everyone sets up food and table on front porch)\
- Host a movie night and discussion afterwards
- Start a walking/running group in the neighborhood
- Start hosting a play date weekly for other stay at home parents
- Organize a carpool for your neighborhood to help save gas
- Volunteer to coach a local little league sports team
- Have a front yard ice cream party in the summer