Welcome to the Neighborhood!

At CIL, we believe in being a good neighbor. And that whole “being a good neighbor” seems pretty easy, right? Sometimes, though, being the new people on the block means the cards end up stacked against you, and you find yourself in an uphill battle before you’ve even moved in. No one can feel this more than home and community-based service (HCBS) providers. In our line of work, we’ve seen it — community residences can sometimes come with a preconceived negative bias that they won’t be a good neighbor. At CIL, we believe everyone deserves community, regardless of their age, race, class, disability. Nonetheless, it is a struggle we face. To combat that negative bias, we find it is best to be proactive. Below, we’ve outlined ideas that we’ve seen HCBS providers employ to build goodwill and positive relationships in the communities where they support individuals.

At CIL, we provide more than just houses—we help build communities. Our mission is to support providers in creating environments where care and compassion thrive. By partnering with CIL, you can focus on what matters most: serving those in need.

More On Community Residences

start with communication

When a new home opens, taking the first step to introduce yourself can set the tone for good neighborly relationships. Instead of waiting for residents to stop by, consider flipping the script and reaching out. Visiting your neighbors to share a warm greeting and a little information about the new home can be a great start. You might mention how many residents will live there, typical activity levels, or how often staff changes occur. Offering a contact number for questions or concerns can also help build trust. If in-person introductions aren’t feasible, dusting off your penmanship and writing a thoughtful letter is another idea — an opportunity to share information and express your commitment to being a positive addition to the neighborhood. Delivering baked goods or small tokens can break the ice. This gesture not only opens dialogue but also demonstrates goodwill and hospitality.

We’ve even seen providers involve the neighborhood in groundbreaking ceremonies for new construction homes (nothing is cuter than seeing the neighborhood kiddos with hard hats and shovels – trust us)!

host community events

Hosting events is an excellent way to develop understanding and, the cornerstone of any community, connection. Open houses can invite neighbors to tour the home, meet staff, and learn about its purpose. This transparency can dispel misconceptions and create opportunities for meaningful dialogue. Organizing casual events such as block parties or gatherings allows neighbors to meet residents and staff in a relaxed, friendly setting. Educational workshops can be another valuable approach, offering the chance to share knowledge about the home’s mission, such as accessible design, independent living, or other relevant topics. These sessions can raise awareness and encourage inclusivity.

share your story

Storytelling is a powerful way to build connections and create a sense of shared purpose. Sharing stories about the individuals and how the home contributes positively to their lives and the community can create a level of understanding that wouldn’t have been there otherwise. Newsletters, social media, or local publications can be effective platforms for this. Celebrating successes through testimonials or “day in the life” snapshots humanizes your work and helps build connections. Sending holiday cards or New Year’s wishes to neighbors, featuring uplifting stories or milestones, is another way to maintain a connection with your neighbors. You might even find yourself with a new group of volunteers and donors for your organization!

listen and learn

To truly integrate into a community, it’s important to understand its needs and address concerns. Being willing to listen to concerns and address possible issues quickly fosters trust and open communication. Simple fixes, such as pointing floodlights away from neighbor windows for late-night shift changes, can make a huge difference in neighborly relationships. 

build relationships through everyday actions

Sometimes, the simplest actions can have the most significant impact. Being a consistent, approachable presence in the neighborhood helps establish trust over time and reinforces a commitment to being a positive part of the community.

By embracing these strategies, HCBS providers can create a welcoming and inclusive community living experience for the individuals they support. 

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