The new year will be upon us and people make all types of resolution. Here are some resolutions I’d like to suggest we all consider for our neighborhood. Some of these ideas for comes from the Better Block project and from writer Sarah Goodyear.
Plant something…or plant more
Green, living things can radically change people’s moods and health. A tree or a flower brings great happiness, and it can connect you to the people in your neighborhood.
Pick up litter
This one is easy. Sadly, no matter where you live, there’s likely to be litter. Maybe it’s blowing around on the sidewalk. Maybe it’s dumped by the side of a street. If the debris not too horribly disgusting — some newspaper, a chips bag, a plastic bag, an empty bottle — just pick it up and dispose of it properly. This is probably the single easiest good deed to perform in any place in the world.
Get to know your neighbors
Really, even the irritating ones. Say hello and get a conversation started.
Find out who your government representatives are.
All of them. State, federal, county and city. Then, when you have a problem, you know who to go to to get it fixed.
If you see something, say something.
Something doesn’t look right? Properties in disrepair? Trash not being picked up? The city of Peoria has a service and app called Peoria Cares. Download it or call 309.494.CARE. Call the Peoria Police Department non-emergency number, 309.673.4521 or call 9-1-1 in emergency situation. Not sure who to connect with? Visit the Heart of Illinois 2-1-1 website at 211hoi.org.
Shop locally
The vitality of neighborhoods exist in a number of amenities including neighborhood business. We have a variety of local business along Main St. and in West Peoria that add to the vitality of our community and the wealth of our city.
Go for a walk
We have a great neighborhood with runners and bikers and dog walkers. Get out and enjoy what we have!
Build a Little Free Library
Build a Little Free Library next to the sidewalk that runs alongside your house to the park. Little Free Libraries are free book exchanges that promote literacy and a sense of community.
Visit a Senior or Shut-In
According to the 2010 U.S. Census, 11 million people over the age of 65 live alone. While living alone doesn’t necessary mean that someone is socially isolated, far too many older adults are. Isolation can affect physical and mental health, make seniors more vulnerable to elder abuse, and make them more vulnerable during natural disasters, dangerous weather, and other crises too.