Know Thy Neighbor: Just like it used to be

This article from guest writer, Gunn senior Divya Saini.

The world is flat and is getting flatter by the day. Distances are becoming shorter and the internet is bringing us closer. Often times we socialize virtually more than we do in-person. There are some people, however, that we should know on a more personal level. No one can take the place of these people: your neighbors.

Neighbors are our first responders when we need help. Their physical proximity to us qualifies them for a unique and indispensable quality of being right there when we need their help. Our ability to count on our neighbors in times of need can additionally be the beginnings of a burgeoning companionship and life-long friendship.

In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, however, it is not uncommon for people not to know their neighbors. Okay, how about you? Do you know who your neighbors are? Do you know them well enough to reach out in case you need help? And despite any inconvenience that it might cause you, are you willing to provide assistance to your neighbors in their times of need? If you answered “No” to any of these questions, don’t be too hard on yourself, because you are not the only ones.

The Bay Area is a sort of cultural “melting pot”, as we consist of a diverse mix of people from all over the world. Sometimes it can be difficult and out of the way to find a culturally appropriate, engaging way to reach out to your neighbors. Yet, most people would agree that getting to know your neighbors has its major benefits from civil, social, and practical viewpoints. 

Practical Benefits:

There is great peace of mind when you are out of town and know that your neighbor is keeping an eye on your house. A few years ago, our neighbors were on their trip to England when their lawn water pipe burst. Thanks to the fact that we were on speaking terms, we knew that they were out of town for a week, and found a way to contact them and get their water supply shut off. By Murphy’s Law, we know that the time a pipe will burst or the time a spider will trigger you home alarm system will be when you lock your house to get away for a few days.

If you have told your neighbor to keep an eye on your home, however, you can get away with a higher sense of security.  The hugely successful Neighborhood Watch Program in many cities has proven to reduce crime rate predominantly on the basis of active neighborhood collaboration.

If you have children in your family, knowing your neighbors will make both carpools, babysitting, and chores easier as you exchange favors that benefit both families. Your child could have a biking partner to get to school. You can exchange notes about different summer camps, teachers at school, tutors, information about the college application process, or even good restaurants. This is much like getting the advantage of an extended family in which the kids are of all different types and ages. If you are a working professional, you might see this concept captured in the phrase “Your network is your net worth”. Here is a networking opportunity that is at your door steps; make use of it!

Social Benefits:

Living in a racially diverse community can be taken as a strong positive. It can provide a very easy and inexpensive way to learn about new cultures. There are opportunities to participate in various cultural celebrations from Hanukah, to Diwali, to Chinese New Year and Cinco de Mayo, among numerous other festivals and traditions that are being celebrated within doors down from your own. As a bonus, your friendly neighbor may be all too happy to share some authentic dishes from their cultures. I know my mom's Chai Tea is rated 5-stars because of the fresh spices she grinds into it. How is that as an incentive to get to know your neighbor?

Civic Benefits:

The citizens of Palo Alto want to make an effort to strengthen neighborhood collaboration.  A group of citizens have helped form a very important neighborhood initiative called the “Block Preparedness Coordinator Program(BPC)”. The program relies predominantly on the concept of neighbors helping neighbors in the event of a natural disaster, such as a major earthquake. Find more information at: http://www.paneighborhoods.org/ep

In summary, the first step to building a strong, resilient community is to know thy neighbor. The Palo Alto Developmental Assets Initiative (a Project Safety Net team) is throwing a Caring Neighborhoods Challenge (www.devassetspaloalto,org)  for 2013. Between now and September, get involved in fostering stronger neighborhood ties and get to know your neighbor. You can do so in many ways, such as hosting a block party or hosting a cookies & conversation event... basically anything that will give the neighborhood a reason to get together. On our block, thanks to our enthusiastic and inspirational neighbor, Tina, we have had an annual block party for as long as I can remember.  It is simple to get a city permit to close down your street for the day, bring out your patio chairs, and catch up with your neighbors. Planning, funding and prizes are available through this program. For details contact DevAssetsPaloAlto@gmail.com

We live in a fast-paced world, but there is no good reason to let go of the age-old best practices of maintaining strong neighborhood ties. So, take the courage and the initiative to reach out to your neighbors.  It builds mountains of good for all of us.