Strong neighbourhoods are the foundation of vibrant, connected communities. The League of YQL Neighbourhoods (YQLN) recognizes the importance of fostering these connections, which is why we launched the Neighbourhood Engagement Initiative. This initiative combined insights from a community-wide survey and a community discussion to better understand how residents interact, engage, and collaborate within their neighbourhoods.
The findings, now compiled in our newly released report, Cultivating Neighbourhood Connections: Insights from the Lethbridge Neighbourhood Engagement Initiative, highlight the state of neighbourhood engagement in Lethbridge and provide clear recommendations for strengthening community ties. Read on for a brief overview of the key insights, and be sure to check out the full report here.
The Power of Social Connection
While our findings do not establish a direct correlation with existing research on the benefits of strong neighbourhoods, they do highlight key areas in Lethbridge where a strong foundation exists for building and strengthening social connections. The survey revealed that 64.38% of respondents know at least six of their neighbours, and 51.88% expressed a desire to expand these connections. Casual interactions, shared spaces, and acts of kindness were identified as key drivers of community belonging.
Despite this, barriers remain—39.62% of respondents reported obstacles to participation, including time constraints, lack of awareness, and privacy concerns. Creating inclusive, accessible events and communication channels is essential to bridging this gap.
What’s Happening in Lethbridge Neighbourhoods?
- Neighbourhood Groups: While 41.25% of respondents reported the presence of active online groups (mostly on Facebook), only 17.5% noted formal neighbourhood associations, and 23.75% were unaware of any groups at all. This signals a need for greater visibility and support for grassroots community efforts.
- Participation Trends: While 60.38% of respondents engage in neighbourhood activities, there is significant room for growth. Events like block parties, festivals, and community projects were among the most desired activities for strengthening neighbourhood bonds.
- Neighbourhood Associations (NAs): Recognized as valuable organizers for events, safety initiatives, and advocacy, NAs need flexible support to remain inclusive and community-driven rather than overly structured.
Moving Forward: Recommendations for Strengthening Community Engagement
To enhance neighbourhood connections, YQLN has identified key strategies:
- Increase the Accessibility of Community Events – Expand informal gatherings like block parties, BBQs, and neighbourhood festivals, ensuring events are inclusive and family-friendly.
- Improve Communication Channels – Establish a centralized online hub for neighbourhood news, event updates, and community resources.
- Empower Neighbourhood Associations – Provide mentorship, toolkits, and leadership development to support grassroots initiatives.
- Engage Underrepresented Areas – Focus outreach efforts on neighbourhoods with lower participation rates, creating targeted programs to address specific engagement barriers.
- Simplify Community Support – Reduce bureaucratic hurdles for residents organizing events, and introduce micro-grants for local initiatives.
Be Part of the Change
The findings from this report are just the beginning. Strengthening neighbourhood connections requires ongoing collaboration between residents, neighbourhood associations, and community partners. Whether through organizing an event, joining a local group, or simply reaching out to a neighbour, every small action contributes to a more connected Lethbridge.
We invite you to explore the full report and see how you can play a role in cultivating stronger neighbourhood connections: Read the full report here.
Together, we can build a city where every voice is valued, and every neighbourhood thrives.