The Neighbourhood Associations of Medicine Hat and Area aims to facilitate the creation of hyper-local affiliates. Courtesy/Boylan Imaging via Facebook

By Eli J. Ridder

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A Medicine Hat organization has renewed its effort to spur the creation of hyper-local neighbourhood groups that aim to create a stronger, more connected community.

The Neighbourhood Associations of Medicine Hat and Area kicked off last year to support residents who want to start a group where they live in the city and are now trying to grow their number.

The organization’s chair Shantel Ottenbreit said the associations create a sense of belonging, pride and connection for both long-time and new residents.

“We know that when people feel connected into their neighbourhood, they’re more likely to stay, Ottenbreit told CHAT News at a public information session Tuesday.

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“We also know that newcomers really have a desire to get to know the people that live in their neighbourhood, and to be able to contribute to their neighbourhoods.”

The neighbourhood associations group is independent of the City of Medicine, however, Ottenbreit said it works in tandem with the municipality’s goals.

“Our council actually made it a priority that they wanted to see neighbourhood associations in our community, Ottenbreit said.

Neighbourhood Associations of Medicine Hat and Area chair Shantel Ottenbreit held an information session on Tuesday. Eli J. Ridder/CHAT News

“Also, it’s an important way to be able to have a communication mechanism back to residents.”

Neighbourhood associations are also eligible for micro-grants from the city for block parties and other group activities.

The umbrella Neighbourhood Associations of Medicine Hat and Area acts as a support and backbone for the smaller groups, said Ottenbreit.

For example, the larger organization can work closely with the city’s parks and recreation department to hold an association event in a park.

Residents who are interested in taking a first step towards creating an association in their neighbourhood are asked to visit the organization’s social media or its page on Shape Your City.