We created a gathering of South Van neighbours to generate excitement about the upcoming 2026 Centennial of our park by hosting a fall 2025 “Cake in the Park” to share stories and enlist volunteers. Simply through email, posters and social media (SVNH), Next Door, Facebook and The Revue, about 75 people attended in the pouring rain for coffee and cake. We had a lovely time. People shared their stories of local history and times shared in the park. We had folks line up according to the decade they or their families had moved to the area. They introduced themselves and shared stories about what our park has meant to their families. Others shared local history stories. For example, in WW1, South Van had the highest number of enlistments across Metro Van. It was due to the love and respect of the local heroes who died in WW1 that the park was dedicated – and remains the site of one of the largest Remembrance Day services in the city – soon to be for 100 years!
There were no challenges except the weather. We now know we can activate a diverse, compassionate, and fun event with simply the promise of “CAKE” :). Our team of engaged neighbours, along with SVNH, will also be instrumental in planning some special Centennial events – now in progress. Thanks to the grant for bringing us together for a low-budget, low-effort but very effective and rewarding way for our neighbours to connect. I recommend others use this model for community engagement and connection.
