It was two years ago that Galloway Village Neighborhood Association (GVNA) was officially formed. We had only met six months earlier as a group of individuals who found a common interest – our neighborhood. Since that time, we have benefitted from the various programs offered to Springfield neighborhood associations, including our first neighborhood cleanup in September. What we did not expect is probably the biggest benefit of all. We now have neighbors who know each other, and in turn, care about each other.
In January, a fire took the home of one of our neighbors, along with all of their possessions. Our neighborhood took immediate action. Two neighbors began fundraising, utilizing social media to get out the word. Another neighbor offered her place of business as the drop-off spot for monetary and material donations. Neighbors came together to make the site of the fire safe, including clearing and hauling away debris. Businesses stepped in to donate gift cards to restaurants and provide temporary housing. This is only a brief description of many ways our neighbors came together to help one of our own.
During the initial stage of social distancing, GVNA joined with many other neighborhood associations in placing bears in our windows to give children (and many adults) a much needed reason to smile. Some even shared spare bears so other neighbors could participate. Routes were posted on Facebook, along with reactions to the fun.
The time leading up to the election was stressful in many ways. That did not deter us from caring for each other. When a neighbor saw another neighbor struggling to maintain his place in line, he immediately escorted him to the front of the line. As they approached the entrance to Sequiota Elementary School, others in line began to applaud and cheer our neighbor to the “finish line.” This gesture of kindness caught the attention of local media.
Did becoming a neighborhood association make those who live within the boundaries of GVNA kinder people? No, there was already kindness here. The difference is that we know each other now. We see each other in a different light – and for that we are thankful.