Neighboring Class at Lake of the Ozarks


On Tuesday, June 25, the Camden County Council of University of Missouri (MU) Extension hosted a neighboring lunch and learn event at The Club at Porto Cima. The event featured David Burton, an author, neighboring expert, and MU Extension community development specialist. He led an interactive workshop, providing participants valuable insights into neighborly interactions and community engagement.

"The Engaged Neighbor program is for anyone wanting to improve their neighborhood or community, as well as their personal life and health," said Burton. "It's not just for new homeowners or people new to community life."

Burton shared practical strategies and tips for fostering a positive and supportive neighborhood environment during the presentation. Attendees also had the opportunity to create personal greeting cards to give to a neighbor they may not have spoken to before.

The event host, Laura Neely, emphasized the significance of becoming an engaged neighbor. "As a full-time resident in a second-home community, it can be difficult to know all of your neighbors. David has inspired me to take the first step in approaching my part-time neighbors the next time I see them," said Neely.

Burton stressed that being an active and engaged neighbor can help people, organizations, and communities to expand participation while respecting differences and embracing the diversity that makes communities vibrant. 

A 2020 study by NextDoor in conjunction with Brigham Young University revealed that knowing as few as six neighbors reduced the likelihood of feeling lonely. A recent study my MU Extension found that a majority of Missourians feel disconnected in their own community.

MU Extension offers Burton's Neighboring 101 program/network online to the public once per month. With a one-time registration, participants can access monthly Zoom classes that explore the science and art of neighboring. The classes include examples from across the nation and interviews with neighborhood award winners, practitioners, authors, and researchers.

Learn more and get registered by searching for Neighboring 101 at https://extension.missouri.edu.

The Engaged Neighbor program also includes other neighbor-focused events and activities like Show-Me Neighborhood Art Week, Missouri Good Neighbor Week, Neighbor Kindness Day and Neighborhood Labs.


 MORE INFORMATION

Does this article make you interested in taking the Engaged Neighbor pledge? Five categories and 20 principles to guide you toward becoming an engaged neighbor. Sign the pledge online at http://engagedneighbor.com.

Contact the blog author, David L. Burton at dburton541@yahoo.com.

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