Importance of Neighboring

By increasing civic participation in and with under-resourced communities—and by encouraging organizations to dedicate financial and human resources to support local volunteer and organizing efforts—the Neighboring initiative works to help improve conditions in these communities. Neighboring is critical in vulnerable communities because it builds self-esteem and stronger ties among community members, empowers them, and encourages them to take ownership for creating safe and supportive neighborhoods. Communities become more connected, safer, more inclusive places to live as resident volunteers lead local change efforts and participate in securing additional resources.

Neighboring is not a program, policy, or service; it is a grounding philosophy. Because it grows out of individual communities, it can be applied to any program or project.

Neighboring will occur whether or not it is supported; it is the proverbial casserole that appears on the doorstep of an ill neighbor. Imagine, however, the potential when organizations and associations change mindsets and systems to allow Neighboring to become part of the everyday course of action. 

HandsOn Corps VISTA