Are You a Neighborhoodist?

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* The slide is from Carol Naughton from Purpose Built Communities.

I watched a speech in 2025 where Carol Naughton, director of Purpose Built Communities in Atlanta, Georgia, used the term "neighborhoodist." It was the first time I had heard the term used, but the more I thought about it, the more I liked it!

I want to be a neighborhoodist! But the question is how?

Being a neighborhoodist means believing that real change starts right where you live. It’s the idea that strong neighborhoods are the key to solving many of our biggest problems. As our world grows more connected digitally, we must not forget the value of real, face-to-face relationships with the people next door.

Neighborhoodists believe that strong communities, built on trust and care, can support people better than distant institutions ever could.

Social problems like poverty, crime, poor education, and loneliness are often addressed with big, one-size-fits-all programs. But these programs don’t always work because they don’t focus on place. 

A neighborhoodist sees that change must be rooted in neighborhoods—because every community is unique. The people who live there know their own needs best. 

When neighbors come together to support each other, they create lasting change that reflects their values, history, and dreams.

Neighborhoodists also find joy in their daily lives by being present where they live. Walking down the street and greeting neighbors isn’t just a nice thing to do—it builds bonds and creates a safety net. These relationships help people feel less alone and more cared for. They also inspire pride in the place we call home.

Technology is important, but it should support our local relationships, not replace them. Social media can distract us from the people right in front of us.

Neighborhoodists help their kids grow up knowing their neighbors and being part of their community. That connection is powerful. It teaches responsibility, empathy, and teamwork.

Some people think services like schools, health care, or job programs can succeed on their own. But neighborhoodists know that without a place-based approach, these services can fall short. 

When people don’t feel connected to where they live, they struggle more. That’s why neighborhoodists choose to invest their energy into local schools, parks, churches, and groups that bring people together.

Instead of getting caught up in the noise of national politics, neighborhoodists focus on what they can do locally. That might mean organizing a block party, helping a neighbor in need, or volunteering at the community center. 

These small acts matter more than we realize.

So, are you a neighborhoodist? If you believe that strong, caring communities can build a better world—starting right on your street—you just might be.

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 email at dburton541@yahoo.com or visit his website at http://engagedneighbor.com.