You’ve just moved into your new house by Turnkey Homes. And while you are overjoyed by a new home, you’re probably just as excited about your new neighborhood. Beautiful houses and manicured lawns create great neighborhoods in Appleton, but the people living there make it a community. Good neighbors create a happy and safe community that helps make a house feel like home.

Whether it’s your first experience or you want to make a fresh start at being a good neighbor in a new community, here are some great ideas to help. A great first step is to celebrate National Good Neighbor Day!

Now celebrated annually on September 28, National Good Neighbor Day was created in the early 1970s by Becky Mattson of Lakeside, Montana. It became an official holiday in 1978 when President Jimmy Carter issued Proclamation 4601:

 “As our Nation struggles to build friendship among the peoples of this world, we are mindful that the noblest human concern is concern for others. Understanding, love, and respect build cohesive families and communities.

“The same bonds cement our Nation and the nations of the world. For most of us, this sense of community is nurtured and expressed in our neighborhoods where we give each other an opportunity to share and feel part of a larger family…I call upon the people of the United States and interested groups and organizations to observe such day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.”

Five pillars help build great neighborhoods in Appleton, and when you take these simple actions, the results come naturally.

1. Connection. Introduce yourself to others. Just start by saying “hello.” Breaking the ice with someone new can seem intimidating, but it is crucial to make everything else possible. When people are acknowledged, they feel valued, so even just waving as you drive by can begin building connections with those living nearby.

2. Invitation. Invite neighbors to join you for a meal, afternoon coffee, or something fun like game night or lighting up a backyard fire pit. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or an extended gathering, but everyone likes to receive invitations and be included.

3. Celebration. Recognize and cheer on the significant events in others’ lives, such as birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, etc. People love it when others remember important events in their life.

4. Awareness. Stay attentive to the safety and security of your neighbors and their homes by watching for unusual activity. Check on elderly residents who live alone and may need assistance.

5. Availability. When a neighbor needs help, be there for them. It may be lending a ladder or garden tool or helping them clean up after a big storm. Sometimes it’s as simple as picking up their garbage can that accidentally rolled into the street while they are at work. As you enjoy living in your new home, make it an even greater life by building relationships in your new community. Learn more about being a great neighbor at www.nationalgoodneighborday.com and read some great tips from HGTV at www.hgtv.com/design/design-blog/how-to/how-to-be-a-good-neighbor