On a smoky late-summer weekend, while Penticton buzzed with the Dragonboat Festival, Farmers’ Market, and other events, about 40 neighbours still found their way to neighbours Karen and Francie’s block party. They lingered for hours – sharing food, chalking a scooter track, enjoying face and arm painting, and simply connecting with each other.

Karen reflected, “That was the goal – people stayed and connected. Good memories were made.”

The event also featured a FireSmart presentation from Molly, sparking important conversations about how neighbours can protect their homes together. For Karen, it led to a realization that her own xeriscaped front yard – with bark mulch- wasn’t fire-smart. That awareness, combined with a neighbour’s suggestion, opened up an exciting new idea: transforming her yard into a community garden hub, complete with garden boxes, compost, a bench, and even a themed little library.

“I’d love to have people popping in and out and feeling welcome here,” Karen shared. She’s already thinking about how FireSmart grants might support irrigation and other needs to make the idea real.

While turnout was smaller than last year, new helpers joined the BBQ, clean-up, and face painting – evidence that capacity is growing. Leftover food went to Penticton Vineyard’s community sharing table, ensuring nothing went to waste.

Neighbourhood Small Grants plant seeds for more than just single events. In Karen’s case, this year’s block party is already sprouting fresh ideas for a greener, safer, more welcoming neighbourhood.