(With Our Neighbors)

See Greenbelt WON Flyer.

Civic engagement has changed dramatically over the past twenty years, leaving many communities feeling less connected and more polarized. Yet researchers and community organizers increasingly point to a simple, joyful antidote: bringing neighbors back together. Sometimes, the most powerful solution really is a block party.

With Neighbors launched just one year ago as a national call to action rooted in that belief. The idea is refreshingly straightforward — support neighbors in hosting gatherings that spark connection, belonging, and fun. More than 20 cities and towns have already embraced the model, investing in celebrations that strengthen community from the ground up.

And soon, Greenbelt will join them.

Mister Rogers used to ask, “Won’t you be my neighbor?” To him, a good neighbor was someone who takes care of the people around them. Mister Rogers spent decades teaching that a neighborhood is something we build together, through the choices we make and the support we give, again and again.

Organized by RUAK (Random Unselfish Acts of Kindness), the Greenbelt W.O.N. (WITH OUR NEIGHBORS) project seeks to give out up to 40 micro grants to help neighbors to gather this Fall.

All Greenbelt residents, regardless of age, can apply to receive a $50-$75 Greenbelt WON micro grant to gather their neighbors between October and November 2026. The application is designed to be easy, simple and low-lift for anyone wishing to host a gathering of any kind. Dance party at a local park? Moon bounce in your backyard? Pizza party at the playground? Donuts at the Dog Park? Group camp out at Greenbelt Park? You get the idea.

Hosts can submit their ideas for gathering at bit.ly/GreenbeltWON through a super simple application form until September 30, 2026. Hosts selected for the program will be quickly notified and receive a cash gift card to use for gathering expenses. Gatherings will need to be held in the months of October and November. Hosts will also be asked to share a report of how their funds were used and photos before the end of the year.

Dozens of gatherings in a month. Hundreds of neighbors coming together for fun and connection. So many ideas for new ways to come together! 

This program is funded by neighbors through the Greenbelt Supermarket Co-op Round-Up Program. Don’t forget to check out the application at bit.ly/GreenbeltWON and share with your neighbors. Make a plan to party this Fall with Greenbelt WON.