SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Over 250 people from across the United States have taken the Engaged Neighbor Pledge during 2025 . Each one was invited to share what that commitment means in practical terms.  “Their reflections reveal a consistent set of themes, a hopeful vision for stronger neighborhoods, and the first steps many are ready to take,” said David Burton, a community development specialist with University of Missouri Extension and creator of the Engaged Neighbor Pledge (accessible at https://engagedneighbor.com). According to Burton, these voices—ranging from small towns to big cities—show us both the simplicity and the depth of what it means to be an engaged neighbor.  Here is a summary of what we can learn from this year’s pledge takers. 1. Start with Simple Acts of Connection Many pledged neighbors emphasized the power of small gestures. Comments included: “Saying hello to my neighbors more with the intention of being available to each other.” “I’m new to my neighbo...

  In the past, American cities were more than just places to live; they were communities where residents felt a deep sense of belonging. However, as cities became more focused on service delivery and measurable outcomes, the idea of civic membership declined. The City Membership Campaign aims to restore this sense of belonging by encouraging residents to engage with their neighborhoods, local organizations, and city governance.  This initiative (from Sam Pressler and Pete Davis) fosters a culture where people feel responsible for the well-being of their communities, leading to stronger connections, better local services, and increased civic participation. The Role of Neighborhoods Neighborhoods are at the heart of city membership efforts. Strong neighborhoods create strong cities, as they serve as the foundation for civic engagement and community building. The campaign envisions neighborhoods as hubs for local activities, mutual support, and communication between residents an...

  In "Love Your Enemies: How Decent People Can Save America from the Culture of Contempt," Arthur C. Brooks presents a timely and thought-provoking argument for overcoming the toxic polarization that has come to dominate American public life. As a social scientist and policy expert, Brooks brings a wealth of research and experience to the issue of political and social division, offering a deeply personal and moral appeal for civility, empathy, and the urgent need to find common ground. Brooks begins his book by laying out the problem of contempt, which he defines as the feeling that others are not just wrong, but beneath consideration, unworthy of respect. He argues that this contempt, largely fueled by ideological divisions, has become a pervasive force in American society, driving people to treat those with whom they disagree as enemies rather than fellow citizens. This contempt manifests not only in political discourse but also in personal relationships, social media inter...