Pictured Above: West of Washington Connectors in Holland, MI
A few months back, Makya and Robin (Neighborhood Connectors in South Holland) were going door-to-door to get to know their neighbors. One of the doors they knocked on was Rolunda’s. Rolunda has always been a natural connector, and after only a few minutes, they invited her to get more involved. Rolunda soon joined them for “Coffee in Common” event and quickly became a Neighborhood Connector herself.
Rolunda has lived in South Holland for 14 years and has always made it her mission to get to know her neighbors. As a mom, knowing her neighbors helps her feel secure for her children to go outside, play, and meet others.
Rolunda recently helped coordinate the first ever South Holland Octoberfest celebration. The Neighborhood Connectors in South Holland brought together neighbors, businesses, and a local church. They hosted a trunk or treat, hotdogs, giveaways, face painting and a costume contest! (The winners of which were a family dressed as characters from The Nightmare Before Christmas). At first, neighbors seemed to be coming out just for the candy. But soon Rolunda noticed neighbors were staying and hanging out with each other. They stayed for the event and she noticed several neighbors exchanging phone numbers to stay in touch with one another.
For Rolunda, she is excited to see South Holland be more a part of the community with the rest of Holland. But, what excites her most, and her biggest motivation are her kids – Ishmael, Trinity, and Wynter. She wants her kids to be proud of where they are, enjoy it, and feel safe. She believes when people get to know their neighbors their families and their community will prosper.