Road to 1,000
1,000 Neighborhood Gatherings
Mental health is ALL of us. That’s why the City of Colorado Springs, in partnership with several community partners, is challenging residents to host 1,000 neighborhood gatherings this summer to encourage neighbors to connect with one another to address social isolation and loneliness. We can all play a part to make a positive impact on mental health – right where you live, on your own block, in your own neighborhood. Colorado Springs is on a mission to address this crisis head on, as we strive to be a city of good neighbors.
Why Host A Neighborhood Gathering?
By hosting a neighborhood gathering, you are stepping up and taking action to address mental health in Colorado Springs. Studies show people who know six or more of their neighbors have decreased levels of social isolation and loneliness compared to people who don’t. By stepping out of your home and connecting with neighbors through a neighborhood gathering, you are helping to build a social support system in your neighborhood.
How to Host a Neighborhood Gathering
Easy as 1,2,3
1 - Pick the Date
- The 1,000 Neighborhood Gatherings initiative officially launches May 18-19 during Mental Health Awareness Month and will run through Sept. 28 (National Good Neighbor Day). Your gathering will count toward the 1,000 gatherings goal as long as you register it.
- Choose a date and time for your event! Weekends are great for bigger gatherings, while weekdays and weekends lunch or dinner work well for smaller get-togethers. Keep it simple and pick what best suits your plans.
2 - Choose and Plan a Gathering
Whether it’s snacks on your porch or shutting down the block for a party, there are a variety of ways to host a gathering. You can download helpful toolkits that include tips and ideas for how to host a great gathering by visiting CONO’s website. This includes ideas such as:
- Block Party
- Park Event
- Porch Lunch
- Clean Up
- Beautification Project
- Movie or Game Night
3 - Invite Your Neighbors!
- Invite your neighbors by knocking on their door or mentioning it the next time you see them
- Post on neighborhood social media sites like Nextdoor, your neighborhood Facebook Group, or ZonZon
Permits, Rentals, and Event Planning Support
Permits
- Will you have amplified noise at your event? Fill out the noise hardship permit.
- Are you planning a street closure for a block party? Fill out the block party permit.
- Renting a City park? Reserve a pavilion.
- Serving alcohol in a public space or right of way? Fill out the Liquor Permit. You do not need to fill this out if you are serving alcohol on private property
Rentals
- CONO can provide event supplies for your gathering on a first-come, first-serve basis by filling out the event supplies rental application and a $25 rental fee. Rentals include:
- Barricades to shut down your street so you and your neighbors feel safe and comfortable during your party.
- Fencing for events with alcohol.
- Yard signs to advertise your event.
- Tables
- Security for larger events.
Supporting Planning
- CONO can also provide event planning support at every step of the way! CONO wants your neighborhood to thrive and your gathering is a great first step! Email events@cscono.org for more information.
Register Your Gathering
By registering your gathering, you are helping Colorado Springs meet the goal of 1,000 neighborhood gatherings and making a difference in our community. You will also receive a free “Host Welcome Package” as part of the initiative, which will include free swag, additional resources on hosting, and more!