When moving into a new community, it can be helpful for residents to get to know their neighbours to form a sense of belonging. One way of doing this is by joining a community association.
What a community association is:
Also known as a residents’ association, community associations are formed when groups of neighbours come together to share their ideas and work cooperatively to make their neighbourhood a better place to live.
The benefits of a community association:
Community associations have the potential to give residents the opportunity to speak with a unified voice and become an advocate in their area. They can foster support systems and strengthen connections by engaging people in the area through social events and working towards common goals.
This includes organizing community clean-ups, increasing safety initiatives, monitoring development proposals, as well as, working to protect natural/heritage areas, and raising funds to improve parks, amenities, infrastructure and more.
Community associations have the capability of enriching the quality of life in a neighbourhood and can provide a shared sense of community kinship for its residents.
RidgeWood West Residents’ Association:
The RidgeWood West Residents’ Association (RWWRA) has become a key element in the development of RidgeWood West. Formed in the summer of 2017, this association helps to unify those who are living in the area.
Jamie Neville, Rachelle Isaak and Robin Crosby are the founding members of the RidgeWood West Residents’ Association. Currently, the association is working towards building a play structure in the community.
“We have the funds in place for the build,” explains Robin Crosby. “However, we’re in the process of designing the drawings and are hoping to start digging by this fall.”
Once the playground is complete, The RidgeWood West Residents’ Association is looking to organize events throughout the year.
“We want to bring families together who may not otherwise get to meet their neigbhours,” says Crosby. “We’re also aiming to get kids outside to establish friendships that they wouldn’t have made by just playing in their own backyards.”
The RidgeWood West Residents’ Association can be found online as a Facebook group where members can share their thoughts and ideas with other local residents.
Becoming a part of a community association or organization is a great way to give back to your neighbourhood and connect with other residents. It can enhance family supports such as connecting with babysitters and other professionals during social events. This connection also helps strengthen the safety of a community because people who know each other are often more willing to look out for one another. Not to mention, having a community association gives residents the opportunity to help shape their neighbourhood into one that they can cherish for years to come.