Hococo - home of community communication
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It is a wonderful way for property managers to interact with residents by planning and hosting fun events. Apart from brightening up the atmosphere of resident life, these events are also a great way for the property to show its appreciation to its residents. However, as event planners and property managers know as well, it's not always easy to get residents to attend events. If you're looking for ways to engage your residents and improve the culture of the community, you'll need resident event ideas that will get people excited about getting involved.
Creating a sense of community where you live offers numerous benefits that enhance the overall well-being and quality of life for residents. Here are some compelling reasons why fostering a sense of community is important:
Social Support and Belonging: A sense of community provides residents with a support system and a feeling of belonging. It alleviates feelings of isolation and loneliness, promoting mental and emotional well-being.
Enhanced Safety and Security: Close-knit communities tend to look out for one another, fostering a safer environment. Neighbours who know each other are more likely to report suspicious activities and work together to enhance security.
Longevity and Happiness: Studies suggest that individuals in close-knit communities tend to live longer and report higher levels of life satisfaction and happiness. The sense of connection and purpose positively impacts overall well-being.
Environmental Responsibility: Communities that collaborate often develop a shared sense of responsibility towards the environment. Initiatives like recycling programs or neighbourhood clean-ups are more likely to be successful in a tightly-knit community.
Fostering a sense of community brings about numerous advantages that range from improved mental and physical health to enhanced safety, economic growth, and a greater sense of belonging. It ultimately contributes to a fulfilling and enriched life for all residents involved.
Here are some event ideas that every community can do, big or small.
Many people find it easier to work out at home than at the gym because of their busy schedules. Consider holding fitness classes on the lawn under the trees or in open areas of the building to make it convenient for residents. Organise yoga classes, aerobics, full-body cardio classes, or other fitness courses that residents would enjoy. An on-site gym opens up a world of possibilities.
Announce a contest in which residents compete to see who has the most well-decorated front door. Run the contest during Halloween, Christmas, or other holidays, when residents are inspired. Or, choose a unique theme for the contest. Offer an enticing prize, such as a gift certificate or tickets to a local event, to incentivize participation.
Pro tip: In addition to being fun for residents, front door contests can help improve the exterior of a property.
By discussing the themes, symbols, and characters of their favourite books, residents will discover common interests and get to know one another. Residents can read the same book or come with their favourite book and discuss.
Pro tip: Choose a new theme each month, explore genres, and embolden residents to recommend their favourite works.
If residents are experiencing technical difficulties, hire a tech expert or the resident techie to assist them. Residents can learn how to use new technology, install software, adjust application settings, and fix basic connection problems with the help of the tech expert. Technology tutorial events like these are great for busy families, older residents, and technology beginners.
In addition to building relationships with residents, introductory events can increase lease renewals and encourage resident referrals. Invite residents to a fun, exciting, and casual after-hours event to meet their neighbours. Provide incentives to attend, such as food, drinks, and entertainment.
Garden days are a great opportunity to prepare, plant, and grow a community garden for residents. You can attract birds, butterflies, and bees by planting beautiful pollinators. Moreover, you can grow fresh herbs, vegetables, and fruits for the benefit of the residents.
Make it easy for residents to unwind, chill, and grill together in a casual, laid-back atmosphere. Protect residents from the elements as they enjoy grill favourites with picnic tables, umbrellas, or a reception tent.
You can invite all residents to a potluck in honour of Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, etc. Property management can provide the main dishes, cocktails, and setting for the event as the host. Invite residents to bring a side dish, appetiser, or dessert. It is possible for residents to leave in between events if they wish, while those without plans for the holidays will have a community to celebrate with.
Some mornings are better without breakfast dishes. Invite residents to join you for pancakes, eggs, and other breakfast favourites in their pyjamas. Even the biggest B-person can be cheered up with fresh fruit and hot coffee.
In this resident event idea, residents gather to decorate walkways and sidewalks with chalk, and the most creative, or on-theme design wins an exciting prize. Announce the winner live on your resident app or in person with residents. In addition to 1st place, surprise guests with unannounced art awards, such as Best in Show, Most Creative, Class Clown, or Most Unique.
Offer CPR classes on the property or at a nearby venue. Hire an instructor, and work to build a safer on-site resident community while empowering residents with lifesaving skills.
With a projector, screen, and snacks, event planners can host fun movie nights for residents, even on a tight budget. Screen family-friendly or themed movies indoors in community areas or on the lawn when the weather is nice. Invite guests to pack a picnic, and make themselves comfortable.
Pro tip: Sell popcorn, candy, and other classic concessions to raise money for future resident events.
Gather residents to participate in a paint day. Provide canvas, paint and maybe some snacks. You can either choose a theme, an object or just let your resident’s imagination run free! By the end, your residents will have interacted with each other and can bring home a unique art piece with fond memories.
Pro tip: Reach out to local hardware stores, art supply stores, and studios for supply donations.
There are many more ideas and events to be held, and it is only the imagination which sets the limit. It doesn’t have to be big and fancy, just a time to focus on your shared community and create memories.
