Sunday 27 March is Neighbour Day, a national campaign fostered by Relationships Australia over the last 20 years. Neighbour Day celebrates existing relationships and encourages new connections to lessen the impact that social isolation has on the health and wellbeing of Australians.
Willoughby City Council is encouraging locals to reach out to their neighbours and those within the Willoughby neighbourhood to build greater social connections, cohesion and community resilience.
Mayor of Willoughby, Cr Tanya Taylor said “Socially-connected communities are more resilient and better prepared to withstand shocks and stresses.
“I am encouraged by the community spirit alive in Willoughby. Recent extreme weather events and the COVID-19 pandemic have seen Willoughby residents stepping up and assisting each other in times of need.
“In many cases, people have found ways to support each other, such as creating online chat groups or offering small neighbourly acts to those in need.
“Yet more can still be done to ensure no one is isolated in our community. I urge everyone to make a special effort to reach out to people at risk of isolation and loneliness. A small act of kindness from a neighbour can mean the world of difference and build a lasting relationship.”
“Willoughby Residents can get involved in Neighbour Day by hosting an event, becoming a community volunteer or performing a small act of kindness to someone in need. It all contributes to building respectful relationships, sustainable connections and fostering a strong, resilient community,” Mayor Taylor said.
Willoughby City Council supports the community to foster sustainable, social connections through its many community programs and events.
The Dougherty Community Centre and Willoughby Park Centre provide regular lifestyle, spiritual, cultural, creative arts, hobby classes and activities which provide great opportunities for people to connect with their local community. Across many weekends in Summer, the community gathered at Warners Park to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere with drinks and entertainment.
In Chatswood, the MOSAIC Multicultural Centre is a great connecting point for local residents. MOSAIC runs a range of activities, classes and programs for Willoughby residents.
Through Willoughby Council’s Volunteer Program, volunteers have the opportunity to support others through valuable work in our libraries, bushcare programs, multicultural programs and galleries.
To get involved in the campaign visit Neighbourday.org. To find out about Willoughby City Council supported events visit Willoughby.nsw.gov.au/events and sign up to the weekly What’s On email newsletter.
