Boyle McCauley News

Since 1979 • April-May 2024 • Circulation 5000

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Connecting Neighbours, Building Community

A few weeks ago, I attended the first Community Café and Board Games Night of the New Year at the Boyle Street Community League. It was a night filled with chatter and laughter, as we spent time with old friends, and were introduced to new neighbours. There was coffee and snacks to be had, and games such as Taboo and Munchkin were played together among newbies and veterans alike. As I looked at the group that had gathered, I couldn’t help but smile and think, “This is it. This is what community is all about.”

Knowing your neighbours makes your neighbourhood a better place. It makes you feel safer in your surroundings, whether you’re acquaintances or friends. It may mean that you can borrow a cup of sugar when baking, rather than having to run to the store. It can be a group of guys getting together to help re-roof someone’s home. You may discover a reliable neighbour who can pick up your mail, water your plants, or feed your cat if you’re gone on vacation. Or what if you find a group of people who have similar hobbies and you want to start a club? This is what the Abundant Community Initiative is all about: knowing your neighbours to make your neighbourhood a healthier, happier place.

As the Neighbourhood Connector for Boyle Street, my job is to help facilitate those connections. I get to meet people from our neighbourhood and act to connect people with similar hobbies, passions, and interests. There are lots of people in the neighbourhood who love their dogs. Maybe it’s time for a dog walking club or an afternoon of getting together and baking snacks for your four-legged friends. If you love food, maybe we can create connections for a group that enjoys dining out together and discovering the best the city has to offer.

On Wednesday, February 17 from 7-9 p.m., you’re invited to attend an Abundant Community Initiative Information session. Come out and share your ideas for getting to know your neighbours better and meet with like-minded individuals. Can’t make it? Then maybe join in with the BSCL’s Community Café Board Games Night on the first and third Monday of each month. Get involved! You’ll be amazed at the opportunities our neighbourhood holds.

_Maria Castle is the Neighbourhood Connector for the Abundant Community Initiative in Boyle Street. You can reach her at: boylestreettalk@gmail.com

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