Strengthening Community, One Block Party at a Time

Steve Spreitzer of the Interfaith Leadership Council presented to our club in the spring. I signed up for their program, Bridging to Belonging, and completed the eight‑week program this summer. One of our outcomes is to help create a stronger sense of community in our neighborhoods throughout Livonia. One tried‑and‑true method of strengthening neighborhoods is hosting events like a block party.

Energized by the possibility of being the first of several neighborhood events, our SMB Estates board created a block party committee, went before council to obtain the necessary permit, and began planning. The result was a fabulous event, including a bike parade. I couldn’t believe how many families and children came out to visit one another and enjoy our yard games and live music.

A highlight for me was that Peter Dale, dressed as a Quaker, led our parade on Saturday. It is a coincidence that I met Peter a few short weeks prior to him joining Rotary. Peter also completed the Livonia Bridging to Belonging pod this summer.

Erin H. Dobbins

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