Want a Stronger Neighborhood? Read This.

Let me recommend a practical guidebook for anyone looking to create a more vibrant neighborhood or town. It’s called Building a Vibrant Community by Quint Studer, and it’s based on the real-life transformation of Pensacola, Florida. The book reads like a roadmap for renewal—packed with wisdom, missteps, and lessons learned.

Given how rare it is to find case studies of this depth and honesty, this should be required reading for anyone serious about revitalization—whether you're a mayor, a chamber director, or just the one neighbor in the cul-de-sac who refuses to give up on your town.

The book covers the messy, beautiful business of building momentum, handling different personalities, engaging youth, navigating setbacks, and empowering local entrepreneurs. It doesn’t sugarcoat the process—it shows how hard it can be to shift a community culture. But it also shows how deeply worth it that journey is.

Early on, Studer offers a definition that’s both visionary and practical: “Great communities make us feel grounded, protected, and empowered. They provide jobs and solid economic growth. They attract new talent and keep existing talent from leaving town. They do a great job of educating young people, they provide safe neighborhoods, and they nurture the health and well-being of all citizens. They provide a sense of belonging, connections, and support. And they’re just more fun to live in.”

That’s the goal. But how do we get there?

Studer makes it clear: Great communities don’t just happen. They’re built—strategically, intentionally, and locally. It’s not about waiting for the state to step in or a grant to fall from the sky. It’s about starting where you are, with the people you have, using what’s already in front of you.

Want to create energy? Celebrate small wins.
Want to grow leaders? Mentor young people.
Want to shift culture? Make values visible.
Want a better neighborhood? Knock on a door and listen.

No one person has the whole answer. But each of us has a piece of it. This book is a reminder that change doesn’t begin in a government office—it starts at the dinner table, in the town square, at the neighborhood potluck.

So if you're tired of just wishing your town would improve, grab this book. Then roll up your sleeves. Great communities are built by neighbors who believe they can 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 emal at dburton541@yahoo.com.