Block Parties

One of the most detrimental blows to our community has been the loss of strong neighborhoods over the past four decades. We moved from the front porch inside. If we go out at all its to the fenced in back deck. We seldom know our neighbors and we end to know even fewer of the children on our street.

To help rebuild this asset rich resource our coalition hosts block parties throughout our area. Some events are only in one neighborhood, others are city wide. Block parties are alcohol free, family friendly events that usually feature free food, games for kids, prizes and entertainment provided by young people (bands, soloists, dance teams, magicians, etc.). The purpose is to reintroduce folks to their neighbors and reintroduce all of the adults to the kids in their community. Block parties encourage multi-generational involvement in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

In a city wide block party event, Asset Builders (nominated by the community) are on hand with baseball type trading cards with their picture on them. Children and teens are offered prizes if they will go around and meet these asset builders and collect their Asset Builder cards. Cards can only be collected by having a conversation with an Asset Builder.

These events have been a lot of fun and have launched several new youth initiatives.

If you would like more information on hosting a block party, please contact John Shadowens at (618) 997-5336, ext. 6111 or Shelley Eilerts, ext. 6145 or (618) 922-6791.