CAI-NJ April 2019

Build Community Through INCREASED RESIDENT ENGAGEMENT By Robert Francis, Planned Companies

© iStockphoto.com

“C ommunities who play together, stay together.” Engaging your residents promotes more socializa- tion, which in turn promotes a healthier lifestyle. Establishing positive experiences for residents is one of the most important goals that community associations should strive for. These experiences can take form in a variety of ways including, fun and engaging social events, special speakers, or something active that all residents can participate in. When looking to develop these sorts of events it’s cru- cial to coordinate activities that get people laughing and working together to enhancing their overall well-being and quality of life. In fact, associations should consider creating situations that enable residents to come out of their shell. This will ultimately help generate excitement and buzz that will further increase camaraderie. For instance, associations may consider hosting a “Meet and Greet” for new residents to make them feel welcome. With the growing importance of practicing healthy habits and living an active lifestyle. An association could bring in a guest speaker who can discuss happiness, meditation,

nutrition and more. Additional potential events could include anything from a wine and cheese party, to perhaps something on the healthier side, like a wholesome commu- nity potluck dinner. In fact, we see the rise of many communities “activating” their amenity spaces and encouraging community sign-ups for a variety of activities. Here are some examples of how to utilize the amenity space. Fitness Space: Everything from to yoga to Pilates to cycling and more – all of which provide an opportunity to bring health and wellness to the forefront of a commu- nity while creating bonds and new friendships. Media Rooms: Many residential properties host movie screenings and viewing parties of sporting and entertainment events such as, the Super Bowl, the Grammys, the Academy Awards, and more. Dog Walk Trails and Parks: Pet Friendly Buildings can encourage not only the people, but their pets, to get together through organized dog walking days and other pet events in the dog designated areas. CONT I NU E S ON PAGE 34

32

A P R I L , 2 0 1 9