Board members should strive to instill a strong sense of community in HOA neighborhoods. Doing this will help make residents feel comfortable and satisfied. When residents feel like they belong in a harmonious community, they are more likely to recommend it to others and engage in HOA activities.
How to Promote a Sense of Community in HOAs
One of the perks of living in a homeowners association is that it feels more tight-knit. Sure, neighbors outside of HOAs can grow close, but nothing compares to consistent community activities and a strong sense of satisfaction.
When board members improve fellowship within an HOA, residents feel more encouraged to participate in events, activities, and leadership programs. This can also help enhance the association’s reputation, attracting more potential buyers in the process.
Here are the best ways to promote a sense of community in condo and HOA neighborhoods.
1. Set up a Welcoming Committee
To instill a sense of community, it is important to start from the very beginning. New homeowners should have a good first impression of the HOA. To accomplish this, the HOA board should establish a welcoming committee.
A welcoming committee can greet new residents and help them get settled in the new environment. This committee can also assemble a welcome packet, complete with all the essential documents and information they will need. The welcoming committee can even throw a “Meet the New Residents” mixer so that everyone can get to know each other.
2. Plan Social Events
Socialization is a prime aspect of building a sense of community in HOA neighborhoods. And what better way to take advantage of this than to plan social gatherings for residents?
The HOA board or social committee can come up with a calendar of events for the year. A good start is to focus on major holidays such as the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. Easter is also a great one for children.
Of course, an HOA community doesn’t need a reason to have a social event. Even outside of the holidays, an HOA can plan events such as picnics, outdoor movie nights, community fairs, and more. With amenities available, it is easy to organize these kinds of activities.
The HOA board should set aside funds for such events, but not all events require a big budget. Even with a modest budget, the HOA can still get a lot done.
3. Organize Clubs and Classes
Putting together clubs and classes is a great way to build a closer HOA community. Homeowners can form clubs that focus on their shared interests or skills. Examples of clubs include gardening clubs, walking clubs, book clubs, fishing clubs, and cooking clubs. Forming clubs allows residents to socialize regularly, even without a social event.
If possible, the HOA board can also organize classes. Partner with local businesses and experts to teach classes on any topic. Board members can even survey residents and ask them what types of classes they would be interested in.
4. Be Inclusive
When doing anything, board members must remember to be inclusive. It is important to make everyone feel equally welcome and valued, regardless of where they came from and what they like to do. Residents should not feel excluded; otherwise, this will alienate them and discourage them from participating in the future.
5. Seek Resident Feedback
To promote a stronger sense of community in HOAs, it is imperative to involve residents in everything. Of course, this doesn’t mean board members should obtain a homeowner vote for every single decision. It simply means asking for input and feedback on major projects and initiatives.
A good way to do this is to have an open forum during board meetings. This forum gives homeowners a chance to provide their two cents and raise issues they might have. In fact, in Illinois, this is even required. According to 765 ILCS 160/1-40, a portion of the meeting must be dedicated to member comments.
6. Utilize Effective Communication
A fundamental key to a stronger HOA community is effective communication. The HOA board should utilize various communication methods, including newsletters, websites, bulletins, and email. This will ensure that homeowners remain in the loop and receive important information.
Board members should practice regular and open communication. Even small things like updates on ongoing projects or tips for winterization can foster a sense of inclusion and fellowship. With so many communication channels available today, it is crucial to make use of them to remotely bring residents together.
7. Create Volunteer Opportunities
The HOA board should promote volunteer opportunities, both within the association and outside of it.
Homeowners can join committees and help plan events. Doing these things will help them feel included and valued. Moreover, they might feel more encouraged to join the HOA board in the future.
It is also important to give back to the community at large. The HOA board can partner with charitable organizations and have homeowners volunteer their time. The community newsletter can even publish information on how residents can make donations to these organizations.
8. Resolve Conflicts
Conflicts are a normal part of any homeowners association. With residents having differing opinions and backgrounds, disagreements are inevitable. To promote a sense of community in HOAs, board members must know how to resolve these conflicts.
Of course, not every conflict will require board intervention. More often than not, neighbor-to-neighbor disputes will resolve themselves. Board members should first gauge and investigate the conflict to determine whether they need to step in. If they do, it is essential to approach the situation with a level head, professionalism, and respect.
9. Be Transparent
Keeping things from residents is a surefire way to destroy trust. Homeowners want to know what’s going on in their community and where their fees are going. Board members should make a point to prioritize transparency by updating residents on financial matters, upcoming projects, and major decisions.
Start Here
Building a strong sense of community in HOA neighborhoods can come as a challenge to board members. Many don’t know where to begin. These strategies will not only help foster fellowship within the association but also improve the overall quality of life.
Hillcrest offers HOA management services to communities in Chicago. Call us today at 630-627-3303 or contact us online to request a proposal!
