Sandra Gammage is preparing for a busy month of June.
As a lead for operations, engagement and volunteer management for three neighbourhood associations in Cambridge and with Neighbourhood Day fast approaching, she’s putting the final touches on several community events.
“In June every year, many of the neighbourhood associations hold events to commemorate Neighbourhood or Neighbours Day,” Gammage said.
“These events are important for the neighbourhoods as they promote better community connection and cohesion, allow community members to gather together in a safe, social, fun environment and generally offer a great opportunity to bring neighbours together.”
Preston Heights Community Group is hosting a movie night on June 9 at 350 Linden Dr. Food trucks and games will kick off the evening at 7 p.m. with the movie beginning at dusk.
The next day on June 10 at 116 Rouse Ave, Greenway-Chaplin Community Centre will put on their annual street party from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Interactive inflatables, a performance by Erick Traplin, food and games are just a few of the offerings residents can get out and enjoy.
That same day, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Silverheights Neighbourhood Association is hosting a similar party with games, vendors, crafts and live music at 15 Baldwin Dr.
Alison Neighbourhood Community Centre and the Hespeler Village Neighbourhood Association will be welcoming the community to its events on June 3 at Soper Park from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Hespeler Arena from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., while Fiddlesticks Community Centre's celebration will be June 10 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 71 Cowan Blvd.
Gammage is encouraging people take the time to come out and see the work that’s being done to build stronger communities within the city.
“We hope the community has a chance to come together and enjoy a few hours with neighbours, meet some new faces and connect with and learn about offerings provided by their local neighbourhood association,” she said.
“We’re most looking forward to connecting with our neighbours, meeting new faces and reconnecting with old ones.”
Another goal of the day is educating people about the role of neighbourhood associations, something Gammage feels isn’t fully understood.
“The neighbourhood associations play a bigger role in community connection than many people realize,” she said.
“If there aren’t enough opportunities to get to know your neighbours, or if you’re not quite sure what’s happening in your community or how to get involved, that’s where the neighbourhood associations come in. Through free and affordable programming, services, events and support, the neighbourhood organizations make it easier for people to come together and connect.”
For more information on Cambridge’s neighbourhood associations visit cambridge.ca.
