A Sense of Community, or Lack there of

Today was the Community Meeting at the Rykert Community House, unit #29. I had one person show up. I want to thank the wonderful lady who took the time to share her story and her experience living in Rykert. It was a pleasure to share the afternoon with you and discuss the Rykert community. Being a "lifer" the one participant has seen the community change over the past thirty years. Raising her children in the community she never felt unsafe or as though she was in danger. Talking about the present day, she says,"as soon as I get close to my neighbourhood all the burdens of life are lifted and I feel safe." This woman loves the Rykert community and is committed to healthy sense of community. She is puzzled why there is so little participation from the community in events and social gatherings. Being a part of the original Tenants Association back in the late 70's early 80's she remembers when the community was a vibrant place with community BBQ's, multi-family garage sales, and community dances on the basket-ball court. The community was active and there was a unique sense of community. Now, there is nothing. The Tenants Association fizzled out over seven years ago. There is the odd community event, but in general there is little to no sense of community. What killed the sense of community in Rykert? This one tenant doesn't have an answer. Sure there has been an increase in drugs and gangs, but what community hasn't been a victim of that? "Back in the old days" there were activities that would naturally draw people together; women would do laundry together, do canning or go to the park with the kids. Men would fix their cars in the park lot and socialize together. Today, there are few things that bring adults together into a common space. How do you bring the adult community together? Why do you bring them together? What motivates people to be involved? Share your story and give your thoughts about what contributes to a sense of community and why Rykert is lacking this sense. Give your feed back.