Unlike National Pretzel Day, National Miniature Golf Day, or even April Fools Day, National Good Neighbor Day is an actual holiday.
It was created in the early 1970s by Becky Mattson of Lakeside, Montana. In 1978, United States President Jimmy Carter issued Proclamation 4601:
“As our Nation struggles to build friendship among the peoples of this world, we are mindful that the noblest human concern is concern for others. Understanding, love and respect build cohesive families and communities. The same bonds cement our Nation and the nations of the world. For most of us, this sense of community is nurtured and expressed in our neighborhoods where we give each other an opportunity to share and feel part of a larger family…I call upon the people of the United States and interested groups and organizations to observe such day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.”
In 2003, National Good Neighbor Day was changed from the fourth Sunday in September to September 28.
Through the years, the champions of the holiday have changed and grown.
We’re inviting you to become a part of making this holiday not just a day, but a national movement.
So, let’s go out and celebrate neighboring on National Good Neighbor Day and let it be a catalyst for being engaged neighbors throughout the year.
Meeting the people who live closest to you doesn’t have to be uncomfortable.
We’re here to help make it as simple as possible.
1. Get Your Good Neighbor Guide
The kit is filled with simple, practical things you can do to celebrate National Good Neighbor Day.
2. Make Your Plan
We’ll help you make a plan so you know exactly what you’re going to do on September 28.
3. Meet Your Neighbors
With your plan in place, you can confidently make the first step in creating connections and building belonging.
Let’s reverse the epidemic of loneliness in our country.
It starts with a simple act of neighboring on September 28.