Connecting with Neighbors in Wichita, Kansas and Beyond with the Neighboring Movement
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The Zoom call opened with a warm flurry of introductions that immediately highlighted the diverse reach of the gathering. Participants logged in from across the United States—and even internationally. Evelyn Blakley greeted the group from Spartanburg, South Carolina, while Janice introduced herself from Brussels, Belgium, where she had just recently relocated. Others chimed in from Issaquah, Washington; Alexandria, Virginia; Marshfield and Ava, Missouri; Columbus, Ohio; Orlando, Florida; New Haven, Missouri; Excelsior Springs; and St. Louis. Abby Harris Holmes joined with a team of five from the Center for HumanKindness in Columbus, Ohio, underscoring the collaborative spirit that was already evident in the chat.
The early minutes were filled with friendly exchanges and affirmations. Participants waved to one another, celebrated colleagues, and offered encouragement. Chet Ridenour called out the collaborative spirit of Kristopher Swanson and his team, while others cheered on Ian Campbell, who had moved from Texas for his role. The group’s sense of connection was evident not just in introductions but in the small moments of support—emoji reactions, quick affirmations, and personal greetings that carried the feeling of a neighborhood gathering into the virtual space.
As the conversation shifted into content, participants raised thoughtful questions about the challenges and practices of neighboring. Several asked about overcoming community apathy and building trust, while others pressed into practical concerns like funding, newsletters, and whether gatherings worked best in homes or neutral spaces. Funding was of particular interest, with participants eager to know how to make the case for neighboring to donors and whether businesses played a role in sustaining the work. Questions about land use and abandoned properties emerged too, with curiosity around land banks and redevelopment strategies.
Stories began to surface, bringing the theory of neighboring into vivid life. Mary-Elizabeth Harmon shared a moving account of how a simple waving ritual between her mother and a neighbor ultimately saved a life. When her mother noticed her neighbor’s absence and used a key entrusted to her, she discovered the woman trapped and injured—likely preventing a tragedy. The chat quickly filled with gratitude and recognition of how small, consistent acts of connection can hold extraordinary power.
The conversation continued with resource sharing. Ian Campbell posted links to documents, podcasts, and examples of international neighboring movements in Syria and India, while David Burton added recommended reading such as The Connected Community and The Art of Neighboring. Others shared programs, including a solidarity economy cohort for clergy and faith leaders. The atmosphere was one of generosity—participants not only asked questions but also contributed knowledge, resources, and encouragement.
As the meeting drew to a close, gratitude echoed through the chat. “Wonderful information,” one participant remarked, while others offered heartfelt thanks. What began as a grid of faces and names across geographies ended as a community—linked not just by Zoom but by shared stories, practical wisdom, and a vision of what it means to be good neighbors in every corner of the world.
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 burtond@missouri.edu. You can also visit his website at https://engagedneighbor.com.
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