Hello Neighbor: Connecting Alexandria Area Residents

By Jordyn Cantalope & Jess Ptacek, Hello Neighbor Committee

Hello Neighbor is an Alexandria area initiative dedicated to helping new and existing residents integrate into the community. Finding friends and making connections, especially when you’re starting a new job in an unfamiliar city, can feel daunting. But, through Hello Neighbor, the Alexandria Area Economic Development Commission and the Alexandria Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce have a simple goal: to help you make connections and “find your people”.

So why does Hello Neighbor matter?
Adapting to a new environment extends beyond merely unpacking boxes or settling into your new workspace. It’s about finding your place, making friends, and feeling at home. We understand that building those connections is essential for a fulfilling life here in the Alexandria Area.

What Hello Neighbor Offers:
Monthly Events: Mark your calendars for the second Tuesday of each month! These events are designed to bring people together. Whether you are a long-time resident or a recent arrival, these gatherings provide an opportunity to meet fellow community members working or supporting their partners in the Alexandria Area.

• Join us at 5:30 pm on Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at Copper Trail Brewing Company for Ink & Drink. Enjoy some delicious food and beverages and receive a complimentary 2-week temporary tattoo provided by a talented local tattoo artist from RM Tattoo & Body Piercing. It’s the perfect chance to “find your people.”

Community Connections: In June, our annual Community Connections event takes center stage. This event features live music, food trucks, yard games, axe throwing, face painting, and a variety of informational booths. These booths cover a wide range of extracurricular activities – things you’ve always wanted to explore but didn’t know how to get involved in.

Supporting Hello Neighbor:
Sponsorship Opportunities: Businesses can play a vital role in promoting community cohesion. Consider becoming a Great Neighbor with a $1000 sponsorship or a Good Neighbor with a $500 sponsorship. The benefits extend throughout the entire 2024 calendar year.

Employer Support: Employers are encouraged to stay connected with Hello Neighbor on Facebook, subscribe to text and/or email alerts, and share important information with their employees. By doing so, employers can retain and support their employees, helping them connect with and appreciate the area just as much as we do!

Partnership Opportunities: If you own a business and have creative ideas on how it could contribute to a Hello Neighbor monthly event, we invite you to get in touch with us at [email protected]. Share your thoughts and let us know how you’d like to support our initiative!

Individual Support: If you resonate with our vision, you too can play a vital role in the success of Hello Neighbor. Spread the word about our initiative to new neighbors, co-workers, or friends, and together, let’s keep forging meaningful connections!
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Visit HelloNeighborMN.org to learn more about this program! 

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