For newcomers and longtime residents alike, establishing a connection with those in your community can create feelings of belonging and pride in where you live.

However, amid busy schedules and other relationships, it can be easy to let getting to know your neighbors fall to the wayside—and difficult to know how to do so once you’re settled in. Here are some simple ways to break down barriers and build bridges to foster new connections right in your own backyard.

Connect online

A key part of connecting with your neighbors is simply making contact, which can be tricky depending on the size of your neighborhood and the habits of its residents. The internet is a perfect solution for this. Search online for local forums or social media groups on sites like Facebook and Nextdoor—and if there aren’t any, make some! These spaces are a great place for neighbors to share community updates and recommendations, engage in discussions, and forge initial connections. You could even use them as a launchpad for in-person gatherings.

Break the ice

Consider hosting a small, casual get-together, such as a potluck dinner or a coffee meetup on your porch or driveway, to give your neighbors a chance to introduce themselves and begin learning more about each other. Once you get the ball rolling, others may likely follow, creating a rotation of regular gatherings at different homes.

Organize a block party

Reach out to your neighbors to organize this classic neighborhood event. Encourage everyone to prepare their favorite dishes or desserts, and plan activities and games suitable for all age groups, such as a scavenger hunt, cornhole, or even a dance contest. It’s a perfect way to mingle without the pressure of conversation, and nothing bonds people like a competition or collaborative activity.

Start a book or game club

If you enjoy immersing yourself in literature or engaging in games like poker, bunco, or canasta, you probably aren’t the only one in your neighborhood who does. These interests provide a fantastic reason to reach out and invite others to a book club or game night, where you can partake in both meaningful and casual conversations and get to know each other in a relaxed and enjoyable environment.

Form an exercise group

For something a little more active, consider seeking out a walking partner or forming an exercise group. Working out with others can enhance the enjoyment of the activity and bring about a sense of accountability for everyone involved. This shared commitment to reaching a fitness goal can generate feelings of mutual support and connection, creating lasting bonds that may grow beyond the group sessions alone.

Initiate volunteer efforts

To form connections and give back all at once, seek out like-minded individuals who are willing to volunteer their time to collaborate on projects that address shared community needs. Whether organizing a cleanup day, participating in beautification efforts, or implementing a neighborhood watch program, these collective actions can build trust and offer long-term benefits for the community as a whole.

Start a community garden

Community gardens can be a conduit for bringing people together by providing a shared space to enjoy nature while also promoting a healthier lifestyle and cleaner environment. Enlist neighbors and nearby friends and family to help you start one in your area, and seek feedback on what produce your community might appreciate the most.

Offer a helping hand

Reach out to those who may benefit from extra care and assistance, such as elderly neighbors, to see if you could help with everyday tasks, including taking the trash to the curb or shopping for groceries. These small acts of kindness can go a long way toward making these individuals feel appreciated and well cared for.

Welcome new families

Finally, whenever newcomers arrive, be sure to extend a warm welcome. Gestures like offering a friendly hello and a smile, delivering a batch of freshly baked cookies to their doorstep, or collaborating with other neighbors to organize a larger event can all make their transition smoother and showcase the supportive spirit of your neighborhood.

Building local connections takes time and effort, but the rewards can be immense. By fostering shared interests and creating a sense of camaraderie, you can transform your neighborhood from a mere collection of homes into a vibrant community where everyone feels valued, connected, and supported.