Cultivating Connection and Belonging Across Larimer County

Happy National Good Neighbor Day from Larimer County’s Office of Housing Stability!

Housing stability is built on more than just solid foundations and affordable spaces—it is rooted in the strength of our communities. When we feel connected to the people living next door, our neighborhoods become safer, more resilient, and welcoming places for everyone to call home.

The Roots of Good Neighbor Day

National Good Neighbor Day was created in the early 1970s by Becky Mattson of Lakeside, Montana, who recognized that strong communities begin with simple, intentional acts of kindness. In 1978, President Jimmy Carter issued a national proclamation highlighting the holiday's vital message: the greatest resource a community has is its people.

Through the years, the champions of this movement have changed and grown, but the core message remains the same. Neighboring isn't just a tradition—it’s an ongoing commitment to one another.

Building Community in Larimer County

In Larimer County, our values drive us to foster belonging, equity, and mutual support across all of our vibrant urban and rural communities. We invite you to help make this holiday more than a day on the calendar!

When we take time to know our neighbors, we create networks of care that keep families stable, supported, and grounded.

Simple Ways to Get Involved Today:

• Say Hello: Take a moment to introduce yourself to someone on your block or in your building you haven't met yet.
• Lend a Hand: Offer to assist a neighbor with yard work, carry groceries, or share extra produce from your garden.
• Organize a Gathering: Host a small front-porch coffee chat, a sidewalk chalk session for kids, or a neighborhood block party.
• Exchange Contacts: Share phone numbers or emergency contacts with nearby neighbors so you can look out for one another.

Good neighboring can start with one small act of kindness, and on this National Good Neighbor Day, we encourage you to let it serve as a catalyst for staying connected, supportive, and engaged throughout the year.