Celebrate Good Neighbor Day with CAI

Celebrate Good Neighbor Day with CAI. Carly Reid, CAI’s director of program logistics and exhibitor relations, shares her experience moving into a new neighborhood and the power of community spirit.

When I first saw the small piece of paper taped to the outside of my back gate, my initial reaction was, “Oh, geez.” I had just moved into the community and was worried I already ran afoul of my neighbors. Cringing, I slowly peeled off the piece of paper and peaked through the fingers covering my eyes. To my surprise, it wasn’t a nasty gram. Rather, it was an invitation to the neighborhood Memorial Day BBQ. I let out a big sigh.

So, I went to said neighborhood event. And guess what? It was great! I met people from all walks of life—from the 7th grader who showed me her super talented anime drawings to a 98-year-old woman who is one of the original owners of the community dating back to 1968. She was fun and had all the neighborhood tea. Among the burgers and watermelon, everyone was so welcoming and genuinely inquisitive about me. And I found myself at ease. I was going to like it here.

Before settling into this 500-unit townhome community, I lived in a 32-unit condominium. It was hip and near shops and restaurants; that was all great. But what it had in sophistication and cool-factor vibes, it lacked in friendliness and neighborliness. Rarely did anyone in my building make eye contact, let alone stop and say hello and, heaven forbid, invite you over for a glass of wine.

Instead, it was a-buzz with busy professionals and athletic types who were always on the go and not really interested in getting to know me or anyone else. In my four years there, I think I met a total of three neighbors. The lack of interaction was getting to me. I realized I wanted to be a part of something more—at least someplace where your neighbors acknowledged your presence.

So, I moved, and it was the best decision ever.

We’ve had a lot more BBQs and other events since Memorial Day. I’ve met a plethora of people who are super cool and interesting. People say hello and wave. There are so many dogs and cats, and parks, and running trails. It is pretty awesome, and I’m pretty darn happy in my new community.

So, what’s in an invite? Everything.

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