Neighboring in Harmony Creek

 


I've written the following story about a fictional town to showcase the findings and recommendations of the State of Neighboring studies done in 2022 and 2024. An official research document will be out in 2024 with recommendations for action.
Neighboring in Harmon Creek
In the small (fictional) town of Harmony Creek, nestled in the rolling hills of Missouri, a quiet transformation was underway. Known for its picturesque streets and charming homes, the town's heart had always been its sense of community. But over the years, things had changed.
Neighbors like Susan Thompson, a retired teacher, fondly remembered the potlucks and block parties of the 1980s when porches were lively gathering spots, and everyone knew each other by name. Today, Susan mostly waved to her neighbors from her garden, exchanging polite but surface-level greetings. “People value their privacy more now,” she observed, echoing the findings of a recent state survey.
The survey revealed that most Missourians viewed a "good neighbor" as someone who respected boundaries and stayed quiet. In Harmony Creek, this cultural shift had become evident. Newer residents like Mark and Angela Carter appreciated their quiet evenings but lamented the lack of deeper connections. “We want to get to know people, but everyone seems so busy,” Angela said.
Despite the trend toward isolation, there were glimmers of hope. A local initiative, "Neighborly Nudge," sought to rekindle the town’s sense of togetherness. Spearheaded by the energetic librarian, Jenna Patel, the program organized simple activities like a tool-sharing library, neighborhood safety check-ins, and a revived annual block party.
Jenna found inspiration in the survey's insights, particularly the growing interest in practical acts of care, such as helping with minor needs or checking in on elderly neighbors. “We don’t need to throw extravagant events,” she said. “Sometimes, it’s as simple as lending a lawnmower or baking cookies for a new family.”
The results were transformative. At the block party, Susan Thompson taught kids how to play her favorite card games. Mark and Angela finally met the Johnsons next door and discovered a shared love for hiking. These small interactions built trust, creating ripples of goodwill that lasted long after the festivities ended.
By fostering small but meaningful acts of kindness, Harmony Creek began to rebuild its community spirit. It wasn’t a return to the bustling neighborhoods of decades past, but it was a step forward—a reminder that being a good neighbor wasn’t just about keeping to yourself. It was about being there when it mattered most.

Written by David L. Burton

MORE INFORMATION

Take the Engaged Neighbor pledge and become part of a movement! The pledge outlines five categories and 20 principles to guide you toward becoming an engaged neighbor. Sign the pledge at https://nomoregoodneighbors.com. Individuals who take the pledge do get special invitations to future events online and in person. Contact the blog author, David L. Burton via emal at dburton541@yahoo.com.

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