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Use ideas such as the one below to forge lasting relationships with those neighbors next door, across the street, and down the block. Show Jesus’ love to your neighbors by the things you say and do.

Enlist your neighbors in the search for the best of everything- or at least the most important things. 

1. Make a categorized list of helpful, as well as fun, things you and your neighbors would enjoy. Include things such as parks, restaurants, doctors, dentists, home-repair technicians, dry cleaners, hairdressers, auto repair places, coffee houses, daycare centers, churches, etc. Make the list into a table so your neighbors can fill in each place’s address, website, and phone number. 

2. Distribute the list, along with an explanatory note, to all of your neighbors. In your note, introduce yourself; explain your motivation; tell them to share favorites by writing in the name, address, etc. of a business in each category. Explain when you’ll need their lists and when they’ll get the finalized directory. 

3. Send a reminder several days before your deadline, or host a simple coffee-and-dessert event where people can drop off their lists. 

4. Contact the owners of your best-of businesses – they’ll appreciate the recognition, and perhaps would even include a coupon or flyer in your directory!

5. Compile the neighbors’ lists into one master list, and make copies for everyone. Don’t worry about being fancy. A staple in the corner and a bold title is good enough – though you could make a creative booklet if you’re so inclined. Just be sure to deliver it when you promised! 

6. Distribute each list/booklet personally, and thank each neighbor for participating. Keep several copies to hand out to new neighbors as a welcome-to-the-neighborhood gift.

- From the book, Field Guide to Neighborhood Outreach by Group Publishing, 2007.