Some people might argue the fact that a condo complex is holding a block party isn’t news. And, normally, we’d agree.
But context, as they say, is everything.
That’s why we decided to share the story of Paddington Station owners who decided the best way to take control of their little corner of Langley City was by getting to know one another better and, in doing so, help create a sense of community.
The complex, which houses 220 units in a mix of condominium and townhouse-style buildings, has had its share of issues with property crime and mail theft since it was built just a few years ago.
In addition, loitering and its attendant unpleasantness (think about the messes you’d least like to clean out of a stairwell) has taken some of the shine off living at the complex for many of its residents.
But Donna Francis is hoping to restore at least some of that good feeling by hosting a party.
It’s a simple gesture, to be sure, but one that could potentially do a lot of good. There will be food and live music and professionals will be on hand to offer advice about crime prevention.
That’s all terrific, but the real genius of Francis’ plan is that by spending a few hours together in a social setting, neighbours will get to know one another a little better, develop relationships and maybe begin to keep a closer eye on each other and on their collective property.
When you have a better sense of who actually belongs in and around a residence, it becomes a bit clearer when something or someone is out of place.
Granted, a block party isn’t going to solve all the area’s social ills, but as the saying goes, it is better to light a candle than curse the darkness.
Congratulations to Donna Francis for striking the match.