7 minute read
Community
Where Neighbors Come Together
It’s easier than ever today to drive straight into your garage, close the door, and head inside without a wave or a word to the people you live next to. But have we lost something in our hyper-individualized, ever more virtual and private lives? Do we know our neighbors?
Sure, neighborhoods look different today than they did decades ago, and technology has changed how we go about our daily lives. But humans have been communal all throughout history for a reason: We help each other out. We keep an eye out for each other; we problem-solve together; we enjoy a spirit of community and camaraderie. And that starts with connection to those nearest us — on our street, in our building, or around the corner.
Explore how some local neighborhoods are cultivating a sense of community today, from gathering spaces to events, favorite locales, social media pages, and even apps.
The neighborhood app
The most popular app neighborhoods use to connect is Nextdoor. This app is available in more than 260,000 neighborhoods in the U.S., and its use continues to increase. Most people use Nextdoor to connect about life in their neighborhood, but it can also be used to talk about shared interests. Each of the communities we examine here are active on Nextdoor, and they also have vibrant out-of-doors social life where people come together to share in activities that excite and inspire.
Small-town character by the bridge
Sitting next to the Ohio River, Jeffersonville, Indiana, is rich in good ol’ small-town feels. Holiday markets, public park activities, and festivals by the Big Four Bridge are only a handful of the fun events you’ll find. For those who enjoy a competitive sport (while seated), there’s weekly bingo, Bunco, and euchre at the Ken Ellis Center. Or if you need to get in your steps, you can make new friends or meet old ones in historic downtown Jeffersonville at the weekend farmers market or events like the Christmas Cookie Stroll through shops and restaurants.
Don’t forget the NoCo Arts and Cultural District, named for its location north of Court Avenue. NoCo and the NoCo Arts Center support an artistic culture with community-centric programming to inspire and support — bringing the artist and art lover together in spaces that celebrate creativity.
Green spaces and upscale resources
Public parks, green spaces, and community events abound in Oldham County. With eight popular hiking and family parks like Creasy Mahan National Reserve and Yew Dell Botanical Gardens, Oldham County has space to connect with nature. “We have many beautiful parks in Oldham County where events are held throughout the year,” says Helen McKinney, Oldham County resident and author with Oldham County Tourism. Farmers markets in Springs Park in La Grange and Pewee Valley, art shows in Crestwood, and the Oldham Gardens and Hermitage Farm in Goshen with their holiday teas and whiskey tastings bring people together here.
Spending time at organized events and in public spaces allows you the opportunity to meet new people and celebrate together. “Our Oldham County community really comes together to support many causes,” Helen says. For example, the Humane Society of Oldham County holds annual events at The Maples Park, and the Oldham County History Center hosts events such as public archaeology digs and Underground Railroad tours. Check out the Tour Oldham County Facebook page for more information, because as Helen says, “There’s something for all ages.”
A historic revival
Smoketown was named for the smoke-producing kilns of the brick-making industry in the 1800s. Southeast of downtown Louisville, this up-and-coming area is home to great restaurants, Idlewild Butterfly Farm and Insectarium, and Logan Street Market. With more than 25 locally owned restaurants and shops, Logan Street has food, handmade crafts, events, and tons of space to connect with locals. Yoga classes and weekly brunches are a few of the activities you can check out here.
Designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Shelby Park has it going on if you need some time in the great outdoors. Bring a picnic to one of many summer concerts, or a stein for fresh beer and food trucks during their October festival. Shelby Park also has a community garden where pros and newbies alike can grow fresh produce that anyone can harvest. Gardens such as these join people in a common interest and can boost public health.
Bustling shops and big celebrations
The history of the Crescent Hill neighborhood dates back to the pioneer road of the 1780s — today’s Frankfort Avenue. In 1849, Crescent Hill became established due to Louisvillians choosing the area for their “summer residences.” According to the Crescent Hill Community Council, residents have always been dedicated to their community.
“Crescent Hill is very family-oriented,” says resident Gretchen Leachman, a mother of two. For example, the Crescent Hill Library offers storytimes and homework help for kids. But the library has something for all ages with game nights and books groups for adults.
And if good shopping and good restaurants don’t bring a community together, then what will? “The shops on Frankfort are always bustling,” Gretchen says. “The Easter Parade is always big, and the 4th of July celebration at Peterson Dumesnil House is huge.” For the last 29 years, the 4th of July Festival has been a big draw for Crescent Hill residents. Bringing the best fireworks, food, music, and art together in one place, festivalgoers can gather with new friends and old as the community continues its tradition of bringing people together.
A perfectly planned community
The front porches are immediately noticeable as you drive or walk down the streets of the Norton Commons neighborhood in Prospect, Kentucky. Built to encourage conversation and connection, these front porches, with their inviting swings and solid front stoops, provide an idyllic spot to chat with neighbors or passersby. In truth, Norton Commons was made for this.
The intention behind the development of Norton Commons and similar New Urbanism communities is to invite an old-neighborhood charm into the modern world. Connecting sidewalks and walkways make conversing with folks that much easier. Residents Mike and Roxanne Falk say they love the convenience and walkability of the neighborhood — and working in a smaller yard also has benefits. Neighbors look out for one another on Nextdoor, and you can find up-to-date Facebook and Instagram pages with the latest activities.
And let’s not forget all the shops, restaurants, playgrounds, and public spaces that are a short walk from your front porch. Norton Commons supports closeness in the community not only through the proximity of its houses but also with its event calendar. From weekend farmers markets to block parties, to sold-out summer concerts by the lake and trivia nights, there’s never a shortage of things to do in this growing neighborhood.
You don’t have to organize a block party to be more connected to your neighbors (though that’s not a bad idea!). Here are some ideas to get out and get to know your fellow residents.
Deliver holiday cookies, cards, or valentines to neighbors
Park outside your garage when it’s nice out
Take a regular morning or evening walk around the neighborhood
Join your neighborhood social media pages
Invite a couple of neighbors to a dinner party or to play cards
Start a group text with a few neighbors to ask for recommendations or borrowing needs
By Tonilyn Hornung
Today's Transitions | Winter 2024-2025
