The dawn of a new year offers a perfect opportunity to reflect on our aspirations and consider ways to enrich our lives. One often overlooked yet profoundly rewarding resolution is to build community ties within our neighborhoods. Building a strong sense of connection among neighbors not only enhances the quality of life but also contributes to a safer, more vibrant community. Whether you live in an apartment complex in the city or a home in the suburbs, these six practical tips can provide you with a renewed sense of purpose in the coming year and help you foster greater feelings of belonging no matter where you live.

1. Host a neighborhood meet-and-greet.

Kick off the year with a friendly get-together to welcome new neighbors and reconnect with familiar faces. The idea is to encourage mingling, so consider a potluck or casual event that allows everyone to socialize and make new friends. Meeting at a local park or even transforming a section of your street into a makeshift block party adds a relaxed, outdoor charm for everyone to enjoy. You can also organize a “neighborhood wish list” where everyone can contribute ideas for future events or initiatives.

2. Create a neighborhood communication platform.

You may want to take the initiative to establish a digital platform, such as a community group on social media or a neighborhood email list, to facilitate communication. This is where you and others in the neighborhood can share important updates and local news and foster discussions about community events. Creating an online hub not only ensures that everyone stays in the loop but also enhances the safety of the community and provides a convenient space for neighbors to connect about any questions or concerns.

3. Organize regular community events.

Plan events throughout the year, such as block parties, yard sales, weekly food truck nights or outdoor movie nights. This is where the fun begins—these types of events provide a laid-back atmosphere for everyone to get to know each other. Keep in mind that when it comes to community-building, a little planning goes a long way. Even a low-key event will still allow people to unwind and socialize without any elaborate planning.

4. Support local businesses.

Supporting local businesses is one of the best ways to strengthen the community and foster a sense of community pride. Encourage neighbors to shop locally, and consider organizing outings to nearby establishments. Whether it’s a neighborhood coffee shop, boutique, or farmers’ market, these outings not only contribute to the local economy but also create opportunities for residents to connect outside the traditional neighborhood setting.

You might even want to collaborate with local businesses for community events or sponsorships to help further support local entrepreneurs and help them build relationships with residents.

5. Create shared spaces.

Establishing communal spaces within the neighborhood, such as a community garden or a shared playground, can provide spaces that help people feel like they have places to visit for social interaction and shared activities. These communal spaces play a practical role in bringing people together, enhancing the social landscape of the neighborhood and allowing people to connect in a way that doesn’t feel forced or stuffy.

6. Welcome your new neighbors and maintain relationships with current ones.

One of the easiest ways to feel like you belong in a community is to personally reach out to your neighbors in a one-on-one setting. Small gestures, such as bringing treats to your neighbors or lending a helping hand, go a long way in creating a sense of belonging and feeling like you can rely on the people in your area. The more you invest in building connections and actively getting to know others, the more you’ll find yourself an integral part of the community fabric.