Nobody can escape the fact that all kinds of nonprofits, civic institutions and businesses these days are abuzz with how to take advantage of social media. The mania has reached such epic proportions that specialized marketing consultants have come out of the woodwork to meet the demand.
Of course the mystique about things like Facebook is all very baffling to those of us who grew up with the internet. But no matter, the years will pass, the people will get on board, and before you know it we will truly wake up to a whole new world.
One entity that has remained surprisingly silent regarding all the Facebook fuss is our neighborhoods. Given the purpose of neighborhood groups to “meet and announce,” it comes as a bit of a surprise that they have often developed their own websites and “dedicated networks” (i.e. Wetpaint and ning sites) before creating a Facebook presence.
Part of this must surely be that most people participating in neighborhood politics and social life tend to be of a generation that is still largely skeptical of internet interactions. Plus people probably ask themselves “If we are all within a few blocks, isn’t it shameful to be communicating online?” The answer is no. Especially if such online interactions help overcome the awkwardness of face-to-face encounters and give people the gumption to get off their duffs and mingle in person.
Some neighborhoods have caught on to the potential of using Facebook to deter crime and fill vacant homes. But in a relatively diverse area like Browne’s Addition, we believe there are some excellent opportunities to use Facebook as a tool to build community.
That said, if you appreciate what Browne’s Addition represents in Spokane, consider becoming a fan of the new neighborhood Facebook page here.
The American Planning Association probably said it best when they recognized Browne’s Addition as one of 10 outstanding neighborhoods in the country for 2009:
The most culturally diverse neighborhood in Spokane, Browne’s Addition is a mosaic of past and present. Stately mansions are juxtaposed with low-rise apartment buildings and condominiums. Residents — some here by choice, others by necessity — appreciate the neighborhood’s proximity to downtown and its recreational opportunities and physical beauty. The grocery store is an easy walk from residences as is the coffee shop, restaurants and pizza parlor. An increasingly vibrant pedestrian realm has created a strong sense of community and provides opportunities for neighbors to mix and mingle.
If you actually live in the neighborhood and would like to learn more about the people living around you, become a member of the neighbors Facebook group here.
If you’re indifferent to joining Facebook but are curious to learn what comes of this little social experiment, subscribe to the comments feed and we’ll keep you posted.
Tags: Breaking Boundaries · Community · Experimentation · Non-Profits · Social Observations · Spokane Pride · Young PeopleNo Comments
0 responses so far ↓
There are no comments yet...Kick things off by filling out the form below.