The Dunsmuir Neighbourhood did it again! Between light rain and sunbursts, close
to 150 residents spent time chatting, playing board games, lawn games and painting rocks at
their third block party. Live music and storytelling set the ambiance as MP Brad Vis and City
Councillors dropped by to say hello during the Saturday afternoon event, strolling by the
Windebank Students Market and a few vendor’s booths. There was something for everyone!
The association organized the event to offer a gathering space to residents, known in sociology
as a “Third Place.” A place where people spend time between home (‘first’ place) and work
(‘second’ place). They are sites where ideas are exchanged, people have a good time, and
relationships are built. Third Places can be recurring activities, monthly meetings, etc.
This year’s goal was to offer free attendance raffle, activities and a free community lunch, partly
sponsored by generous donations from Mission City Pizza, the Junction’s Tim Hortons and
Save-On-Foods. This Responsive Neighbourhood Small Grant project was funded by the
Vancouver Foundation and administered by The Association of Neighbourhood Houses BC.
The Dunsmuir Neighbourhood Association classifies as a grassroots movement where “ordinary
citizens” are the central body of the organization’s membership. They believe that impacting
change within the local community as a collective action is more potent than individual action.
“Participation comes in all shapes and forms. We hold every bit of action toward neighbourhood
engagement in high regard.” -Pascale-Sara Frenette, President
The Dunsmuir Neighbourhood Association has many projects, including leasing a green space from the city, holding a booth during MissionFest and hosting a
fourth block party in October! You can learn more about them via their website.
https://dunsmuirneighbour.wixsite.com/my-site-3
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