National Good Neighbor Day
Being friendly and helpful to those who live nearby can create a supportive and caring community that benefits everyone involved.
Activate community-focused CSR campaigns and neighborhood-based retail promotions that emphasize local connection and goodwill.
- Share neighbor appreciation stories and highlight local heroes in your community
- Promote 'good neighbor' bundles or discounts for community members who shop together
- Host neighborhood events or block parties sponsored by local businesses
- Feature user-generated content of neighbors helping neighbors
National Good Neighbor Day has been celebrated since the early 1970s. This is when it was created by Becky Mattson of Montana’s Lakeside. She created the day because she wanted to connect with and recognize the importance of strong leaders. The President in 1978, Jimmy Carter, signed Proclamation, 4601, establishing this date as National Good Neighbor Day. The President stated that people should observe the day with appropriate activities and ceremonies, stating the following:
“As our Nation struggles to build friendship among the peoples of this world, we are mindful that the noblest human concern is concern for others. Understanding, love and respect build cohesive families and communities. The same bonds cement our Nation and the nations of the world. For most of us, this sense of community is nurtured and expressed in our neighborhoods where we give each other an opportunity to share and feel part of a larger family…I call upon the people of the United States and interested groups and organizations to observe such day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.”
The date was changed in 2004. But it is still all about raising public awareness that we can build thriving and strong communities by being good neighbors.