Block Connector program
Block Connector Program
Strong Neighbourhoods
When neighbours organize, collaborate, and support one another, the entire community benefits.
Become a Block Connector
Block Connectors are everyday residents who get to know their nearest 10 to 20 neighbours, whether down the street or down the hall, to inspire connection and help bring the neighbourhood to life. You don’t need special skills — just a willingness to reach out.
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Make your neighbourhood better
Block Connectors create safer, more resilient, and more connected communities. The program is a simple, grassroots way to help neighbours get to know one another, with a dedicated person on each block who helps spark and maintain those everyday connections that build a sense of belonging.
Block Connectors help create neighbourhoods where people feel known, supported, and safe. They:
- Spark introductions
Block Connectors connect face-to-face with their 10–20 closest neighbours and discover their hobbies, skills, and talents to share. - Bring people together
Block Connectors plan one or more connection-building events or projects each year with helpful resources and grants. - Share neighbourhood news
Block Connectors get out into the neighbourhood, share updates, and help keep people informed. They also stay in the know with the Strong Neighbourhoods newsletter. - Are the voice of the neighbourhood
Block Connectors ask neighbours for ideas to improve the neighbourhood and stay connected with their neighbourhood association. - Champion community safety
In partnership with Community Safety, Block Connectors receive crime‑prevention training on topics like bike theft, frauds and scams, property protection, and basic property assessments.
Block Connectors have access to Community of Practice sessions that offer expert insights, workshops, tools, and practical ideas for building stronger connections. These sessions also create space for Connectors to share experiences and learn from one another.
Past topics have included:
- Building FireSmart communities
- Organizing block parties
- Neighbourhood‑level emergency preparedness
- Crime prevention through environmental design
- Strong Neighbourhoods grant program
- Social development
- Asset‑based community development
Together, these resources help residents strengthen their blocks, support one another, and contribute to a more connected Kelowna.
The Block Connector program is a grassroots initiative with a simple but powerful purpose: helping neighbours get to know one another. When someone on the block takes the lead in building and maintaining connections, people are more likely to feel welcomed, included, and rooted in a sense of belonging.
Everyday neighbour‑to‑neighbour interactions matter. Borrowing a ladder, getting help with a garden project, or finding someone to house‑sit are small moments that build trust and create cost‑effective, community‑driven support networks.
These relationships also strengthen safety, well‑being, and community identity. When neighbours understand each other’s skills, passions, and talents, they feel more confident reaching out directly for help, collaboration, or support. Over time, these simple connections reduce isolation and help shape resilient, connected neighbourhoods.
Be the point person
Meet your closest neighbours and share simple updates about neighbourhood life
Be the party person
Plan one or more initiatives each year that help neighbours connect and participate
Be the listener
Gather ideas from neighbours and share what would improve the neighbourhood
