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Try this simple tool this summer to build bridges of friendship with your neighbors! The logistics are below, but don't forget to cover this event in prayer, asking God to use the time as an opening to deepen relationships and eventually share your faith.
A Week Before the BBQ
- Talk enthusiastically to a few key neighbors and enlist their support.
- Take a flyer to each person on your block (example below). Be sure to spend time greeting the neighbor; introduce yourself if he or she does not know you.
- Ask several neighbors close to you if they can provide BBQ's for this event. If you do not have a table to put food on, ask a neighbor if they have one you can use. Card tables work!
Anytime before the BBQ
- Buy sodas for more people than you think will come. Buy drinks you will use if there are leftovers.
- Buy paper goods (plates, cups, napkins).
- Buy mayonnaise, mustard, catsup, and relish.
- Buy nametags (very important)!
The day of the BBQ
- Set up the BBQ's and light them in time to be ready by your start time.
- Set up food tables, a jar to collect $1 from each person, name tags with a pen, condiments, and paper goods.
- Buy ice and put all drinks in a bucket with ice and water.
Suggestions during the BBQ
- Give everyone a nametag; encourage them to include their address under their name.
- Have everyone introduce him or herself during dessert.
- Ask them to respond to a simple, non-threatening question that each person can answer, such as:
- How long have you lived here and what attracted you to this neighborhood?
- What do you appreciate about living in this country? (If it is July 4th)
- What is the most unusual (or fun or hard, etc) job you've ever had? (If it is Labor Day)
- Be sure to let anyone "pass" if they are uncomfortable responding.
- Set out a ping-pong table, bocce ball, or other games for kids.
Enjoy the time!
Sample Flyer:
YOU are invited to a...
Labor Day, Sept. 4th (Monday Eve)
NEIGHBORHOOD B-B-Q
WHERE:
Bill & Fran and Keith & Barbara's front lawns: 1234, 1236 Main Drive
WHEN: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 4th
WHAT TO BRING:
- Meat for yourselves to B-B-Q
- Buns for hamburgers (if you want)
- Salad or dessert or whatever else you want to share with 4-5 other people
- $l per person for soda, paper goods, and condiments
- Knives, forks, spoons for you and your family
- Blankets to sit on - or a table and chairs
PROVIDED:
- Cold Soda
- Paper goods (plates, cups, napkins)
- A hot B-B-Q
- Condiments (mayonnaise, mustard, catsup, relish)
RSVP by Sept. 2 (Saturday)
123-4567 - Bill & Fran
Come and enjoy your neighbors!
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