Part one of a big email because it's a big week!

Dear Friends,

So many of us have enjoyed and been inspired by the camaraderie and oneness we are feeling thanks to the World Cup. A friend said it felt like “global neighborliness.” That good feeling is hard to quantify or measure, but it is what is meaningful and memorable in life. The fabulous news is that this feeling of hope and joy doesn’t need to be limited to a one-off special event, but can easily be experienced right where you live, as a more permanent state of being and living.

Of course, the way we achieve this is through knowing our neighbors, and micro-local neighborhood gatherings are the place to start! Block Party USA’s American Summer initiative, in honor of America’s 250th, gives you the perfect opportunity and “permission” to do what you’ve wanted to do and reach out to your neighbors. Plus, we’ve got the tools to make it easy!

When I host my office hours, time and time again, people leave feeling “confident, clearer, and don’t feel like I’m floundering,” as one recent participant said.

They are free, and I’ve got one happening today at 3pm ET (click here to join), or save the date for my next Office Hours on Tuesday, July 14th at 12 EDT and Thursday, July 30th at 3pm EDT.

I organized my own neighborhood Block Party a couple of weeks ago, and of course I used the invite template from our toolkit! I’m sharing a copy of it below as folks have found my sample helpful. You can see how I outline what’s provided, what they should bring, and one key part: the WHO.

The block party is for all ages – everyone in the household: singles, parents, retirees – and teens, young adults, and husbands don’t get to opt out. I’m quite familiar with the family's reluctance to participate! AND every single time my husband has a great time, and my teens stay as long as they’re able. Got reluctant teens or young adults? Give them a job like carrying the cooler and use the “just come for the first hour" trick, and you just might be surprised that they stay the whole time. 

ICYMI

I had a blast sharing about “How to Throw a Block Party” with the US Chamber of Connection’s Welcome Committee members!

I shared my story and the mission behind Block Party USA, the 🇱🇷 American Summer 250th celebration initiative, as well as practical, actionable steps for planning and organizing a block party.

It was a real treat to be in the company of a special group of “ordinary people” responding to the deep desire for real connection and making the intentional choice to create opportunity for connection in their neighborhoods.

The U.S. Chamber of Connection’s Welcome Committee supports everyday people in becoming Neighborhood Leaders. There is a free info session on July 15th, and you can join the next three-month cohort if you apply by July 17th. 

PS: Don't forget to make your block party count! Register it here!

PSS: Part two of the email is coming tomorrow!