Everyone wants to feel that they belong. That they are part of a supportive community where they are seen, heard, and recognized.
That’s why one of the most important jobs of a Connector is, unsurprisingly, to connect.
Communities where people feel connected to one other are more resilient, happier, and less prone towards prejudice and intolerance.
But for many of us – especially those living in Western communities – that sense of community can be hard to come by. With our lives often dictated by the demands of work and other pressures, it can be hard to find time to really connect and recognize those around us.
Which is why Colette Descent, Connectors Coordinator for Canada, has been spearheading an effort to reinvigorate community in her home town of Clarington.
For Colette it all started with hot chocolate.
Back in September 2023 she organized a Hot Chocolate Social, inviting her neighbors to grab some hot chocolate from outside her house and stop for a chat.
People, it transpired, were keen on finding more opportunities for connection and so Colette started planning her next event.
In doing so she came across World Neighbor’s Day – an international day to recognize the importance of our neighbors. She requested that her Mayor declare their support for the day and give her permission to organize local events to support it.
Fast forward several months and we arrive at June 1st, the first ever Neighbors Day in Clarington, Ontario, Canada.
The result? A wonderful outpouring of community. There was a pizza party, a potluck dinner, a water slide, and a collection for the local food bank. Regional Councillor Granville Anderson and Ward Councillor Lloyd Rang dropped by and socialized, pledging to get the Municipality fully engaged in promoting WND every year going forward.
And Colette is committed to delivering on that pledge.