About Block Party
Meet the Founder
Founder – Hang Chau
I had never experienced a block party before I organized one in 2000 and only recently did I host my neighborhood block’s first block party, but I remember what it was like to keep my front door open or to go over to my neighbor’s house to play on the giant trampoline. The trend, however, changed within my generation’s lifetime. For many, knowing our neighbors became an exception rather than the rule and with increased crime, fewer people were leaving the door open for relationships with their neighbors.
So when I was given a grant opportunity and asked what I could do to improve my community, I knew I wanted to create an environment where people could say hi to each other. That was when I recalled a conversation with my high school leadership teacher. With fond memories and a candid smile, he talked about joy of being a community where everyone knew your name. He talked about neighborhood block parties.
Shortly after hosting my first block party in an apartment complex, I moved to Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love. There, I was given another opportunity to develop this “block party” idea. Every summer, Philadelphia is teeming with children playing on their own street and neighbors sharing stories, music, and BBQ. There are over 6000 block parties a year in Philadelphia!
I was inspired, to say the least. I decided to learn more about block parties and their impact on the community. I surveyed residents and analyzed maps of the city’s annual block parties. The qualitative data provided a clear picture. As you walk down the streets of West Philadelphia, it was safe to assume that the well-kept neighborhood blocks had organized or continue to organize an annual block party.
Through Block Party San Diego, I hope to inspire and support neighbors in getting to know each other. Our vision is for a healthier, more civically active, and friendlier San Diego where neighbors can engage in open discussions and work together for the greater good. This project is about loving your neighbors as yourself. I hope you will join me in creating a city of neighbors!
