“But do you feel safe?”
I regularly get asked this question or some version of it.
And the answer is yes – I do feel safe in South Atlanta.
Because of my neighbors.
In FCS’ theory of change, neighbors are the critical factor in all aspects of a thriving neighborhood, including safety.
That’s one of the reasons why relationships with neighbors and intentional neighborhood engagement are the “secret sauce” of everything we do, including our housing work.
For example: when we renovate homes on a block, especially one that has had vacant houses
▶️We welcome several new neighbors onto the block at a time so that no one person has to move into a street alone. Being the only person on a street full of vacant homes is not enjoyable.
▶️ As part of the process of moving into an FCS home, whether a renter or a homeowner, we talk about what it means to be a good neighbor through actions like:
Getting to know the people living on your block
Being seen outside and seeing what’s happening
Caring about the people on your block and doing small acts of neighborly kindness.
Keeping an eye on your neighbors’ properties.
Encouraging families to connect with the local civic association, neighborhood events like Treat Street, and get engaged in the local school.
Because through this process, a block fills up with families, seniors, singles, and people who are getting to know each other, participating in community events together, paying attention to each other and to the block itself.
This connection and reweaving of fabric is what makes a neighborhood safe – not an increased police presence or a neighborhood watch.
Neighbors are the people who make neighborhoods flourish.
Pamela Stringfield leads our neighborhood engagement team and is one of the most talented connectors I know.
If you want to learn more about how she does it or about FCS’ approach to neighborhood engagement, feel free to send me a message.
You can do it, too.
#CommunityHope #SystemicChange #BuildingTheFuture #CommunityDevelopment #PlaceMaking #PublicSafety
What a wonderful initiative! It's heartwarming to see these efforts making such a positive impact.!