Title
To recognize September 28th, 2026 as Good Neighbor Day in the City of Columbus
Body
WHEREAS, in the early 1970s Becky Mattson developed the concept for Good Neighbor Day as a means of encouraging people to value and connect with their neighbors; and
WHEREAS, in 1978 United States President Jimmy Carter declared, by proclamation, the establishment of Good Neighbor Day, now observed on the 28th day of September every year, a day where the importance of neighborhoods, neighbors, and community are emphasized; and
WHEREAS, recurrent interactions with neighbors have been associated with improved health outcomes and enhanced subjective well-being; and
WHEREAS, community-level engagement reduces isolation, and social connection is associated with a sense of purpose, community resilience, and longer, healthier lives; and
WHEREAS, about 50% of U.S. adults experience loneliness, a significant increase post-COVID 19; and
WHEREAS, feelings of connectedness between people who live near each other lead to stronger economies, healthier cities, decreased sense of loneliness and more manageable social issues; and
WHEREAS, the City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods works to bond neighbors and support neighborhood pride, encouraging and fostering connection throughout the city; and
WHEREAS, the City of Columbus benefits from numerous block parties, community service events, and local community events hosted by their neighbors on their blocks, in their apartments, and within their neighborhoods; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: that this Council hereby recognizes September 28th, 2026 as Good Neighbor Day in Columbus, and encourages all residents to continue fostering meaningful relationships with their neighbors.