Courtenay residents will be invited to celebrate kindness, connection and the love people have for their neighbourhoods next weekend.
The City of Courtenay proclaimed July 18 as Hello Neighbour Day after Mayor Bob Wells announced the initiative on July 8.
Wells said Hello Neighbour Day is about celebrating the small, everyday actions that help people feel connected and welcome in their neighbourhoods.
“Whether it’s saying hello, checking in on someone, sharing a story or spending time with neighbours, these moments help build a stronger and more caring community.”
The citywide celebration is part of the city’s neighbourhood network strategy, which supports social connection, community well-being, belonging and neighbourhood resilience.
Residents are encouraged to take part in ways that feel simple and meaningful, including saying hello to a neighbour with a postcard, sharing a story or photo about a favourite neighbourhood place and taking part in an act of kindness.
The initiative is designed to be accessible and welcoming to residents of all ages, backgrounds and neighbourhoods.
Leading up to the day, residents can participate online by:
- completing a short survey about what makes a good neighbour;
- downloading a Hello Neighbour postcard;
- sharing stories, photos or videos; and
- pinning stories or photos on an interactive neighbourhood map.
Online entries will be included in a random draw, with prizes available for participants and their neighbourhoods.
Input gathered through the initiative will help inform and strengthen future neighbourhood-building efforts in Courtenay.
