Connected communities are safer communities; become a Block Connector

Public Service Announcement

As wildfires swept through parts of our city, the strength of our community and the connections between neighbours has been nothing short of heroic. 

People across the Okanagan have stepped up to help their neighbours safely evacuate, offer accommodation to others, make free meals, care for pets and animals, and much more. The compassion in our community is shining brightly, even as there is still much loss to be reckoned with and healing to be done. 

This is a time of renewed need to focus on connecting with our neighbours, supporting one another and even finding ways to celebrate with them. The City is looking for more Block Connectors to help strengthen these neighbourhood level activities.  

Block Connectors are residents committed to connecting face-to-face with the closest households on their block or apartment floor. This can mean doing things to animate your shared spaces, building connections with and among neighbours, hosting socials and helping neighbours to share their skills, passions and talents with one another. Residents interested in joining the Block Connector program can learn more by attending a free virtual information session the evening of Tuesday, Sept. 12.

Block Connectors have access to Community of Practice (CoP) sessions where all Block connectors meet regularly to share experiences, tools, and ideas in order to connect and build community on their block. Block Connectors also receive information and training on how to enhance safety in their neighbourhood from members of the City’s Community Safety team.

Additionally, there are Neighbourhood Grants and Youth Development and Engagement Grants available to help support residents with neighbourhood initiatives and connection projects. 

To learn more about the Block Connector program, the role of the Block Connector and grants available, visit kelowna.ca/neighbourhoods.