A Big Party for a Little Neighbourhood

With its longest stretch backing onto the Stanley Park Conservation Area, the Stanley Park Triangle is a quiet neighbourhood bordered by River Rd and Ottawa St. When residents, Darlene and Jay, think about their neighbourhood it has everything they want, access to transit, shopping and nature.  

Darlene set herself a goal of helping neighbours feel as connected to each other as they are to their location.   

When she heard about the LoveMyHood program, Darlene connected with her neighbour Amanda. The two of them talked to friends, and found there was enthusiasm to have a block party for neighbours. 

Together Darlene and Amanda, applied for funding and support from Love My Hood program. A few months later, they made their neighborhood come alive with the sound of laughter, music, and games! The Stanley Park Triangle's first-ever block party was a resounding success, bringing together residents from all walks of life. 

What started as a simple idea to connect with those around the neighbourhood blossomed into a vibrant celebration of community.  People from Halliwell Drive to Hickson, from Crosby the Craig Drive introduced themselves, shared stories and made memories that will last a lifetime. 

Kids played tag, rode bikes, and made new friends. Neighbors became acquaintances, and acquaintances became friends. 

The Kitchener Fire Department stopped by with a ladder truck, there were food trucks, live musicians, and face painters! 

If you're thinking of hosting a block party, take the leap! It's a simple yet powerful way to build connections and strengthen your community. Let's keep throwing big parties for small neighbourhoods, one block party at a time! 

Thanks to the work of neighbours like Darlene and Amanda, our neighbourhoods are growing closer and more connected.

If you saw a Block Party pop up in your neighbourhood, would you be most excited about the music, food or games?