Lynn Morris is joined by community development specialist David L. Burton to discuss the concept of being an “Engaged Neighbor.”
Key Discussion Points:
- The Shift in “Good” Neighboring: Burton notes that in the 1950s and 60s, being a “good neighbor” meant social connection and interaction 13:05 Opens in a new window . Today, research shows most people define a good neighbor as someone who is quiet and respects privacy—essentially leaving each other alone 13:52 Opens in a new window .
- Defining an “Engaged Neighbor”: The program encourages moving beyond mere privacy to active engagement, which starts with simple steps like learning your neighbors’ names 17:33 Opens in a new window .
- The Mission Field at Home: Burton highlights his upcoming book, Neighborhood Mission Trips for Everyday Christians, which posits that your neighborhood is a mission field that doesn’t require a passport or airline ticket 11:22 Opens in a new window .
- Missouri Good Neighbor Week: They discuss this statewide initiative, which takes place from September 28th to October 4th. In the previous year, over 42,000 acts of neighboring were reported across Missouri 46:31 Opens in a new window .
Resources Mentioned:
- Engaged Neighbor Website: You can find more information, sign up for the award-winning newsletter, or register for the “Neighboring 101” online class at engagedneighbor.com
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- University of Missouri Extension: David Burton works through the MU Extension, which offers various community development programs 08:15 Opens in a new window .
- National Good Neighbor Day: Celebrated on September 28th, this is a tool for those outside of Missouri to start their own local traditions 48:08 Opens in a new window .
The episode concludes with a reminder that kindness is a powerful “medicine” for the current epidemic of loneliness and division in the country
