From June 15-22, Cochrane is celebrating Great Neighbour Week by encouraging residents to show their community spirit and take action to foster community connections.
To kick off the week, on Saturday, June 15, from 1- 4 p.m., Cochrane Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) is hosting a free community block party event. Located at Historic Cochrane Ranche Park, residents and families can enjoy hotdogs, glitter tattoos, music, lawn games, connecting with community partners, food trucks, entertainment and more.
“Great Neighbour Week is about promoting a sense of community. When neighbours know each other, they are more likely to look out for one another, share resources and collaborate on local initiatives,” said Kim Krawec, Manager of FCSS, Town of Cochrane. “The block party kick-off event is a wonderful opportunity to get out, meet new people and connect with our community.”
A sampling of some of the other events: Movers and Grovers Pancake Breakfast June 19, 10:30 to noon, Beaupre Community Hall; Community Spaghetti Dinner June 17, 5 to 7 pm, St. Andrews United Church; Community Gardens presentation June 19, 6:45 to 7:45 pm, Cochrane Public Library, and, Photo Walk June 22, 7 to 11 pm, Cochrane Public Library.
Leading up to Great Neighbour Week, Cochranites were encouraged to nominate a special community member who has helped make their neighbourhood a better place to live. Candidates include those who have lent a helping hand, made a positive impact, inspired others, volunteered or supported those in their community. A total of 28 community members were nominated and will be showcased throughout Great Neighbour Week.
Block parties bring neighbourhoods together and help build community bonds. Those interested in hosting a block party can find a list of Town resources to help plan and prepare. A Block Party Guide outlines step-by-step how to host one and provides planning templates.
To host a block party, applicants must obtain the right permits and permissions and complete a block party online application on the Town website.
For more information on hosting a party in a public park, go to the Town's website and view Community Event Planning.
To close a public road, a Street Use Permit application must be filled out under Street Use and Temporary Road Closure Permits.
Event goers are also invited to explore the block party trailer in time for the party season. The seasonal program provides block party hosts with additional resources, tools and equipment needed to host a successful event. Once the block party is approved and the trailer is booked, the Town will reach out to arrange a pickup time. The trailer is returned to the Protective Services Centre parking lot (20 Grande Blvd.). The trailer must be returned by no later than 10 a.m. the day following your block party. The keys will need to be returned using the front door drop box at FCSS (1, 209 – 2nd Ave. W.) after dropping off.
For more information on Great Neighbours Week and other events, visit cochrane.ca/neighbours and cochrane.ca/blockparty.
