Snug Harbor Civic League’s Recent Events: A Community in Transition

The Snug Harbor Civic League has always been a pillar of our local community, bringing neighbors together through well-planned events like Breakfast with Santa and the BYOB Social. Over the years, the Civic League has worked tirelessly to organize fun, family-friendly gatherings that help foster a sense of community. Unfortunately, this year’s events saw a disappointing turnout, with only about 13 people attending each.

While it’s clear that the Civic League continues to put in an incredible amount of effort into planning and executing these events, it’s also evident that something is not quite connecting with the broader community. It’s a hard pill to swallow for those who have poured time, energy, and enthusiasm into the League’s activities—but it’s important to recognize that there are underlying reasons for the dip in participation, and addressing them may be key to reviving community interest.

The Role of Social Media in Community Outreach

One significant factor is how the Civic League promotes its events. Currently, the Civic League mainly relies on Facebook as the primary method of advertising. While Facebook is certainly popular with many people, it doesn’t capture the entire community. There are countless property owners in Snug Harbor who do not use Facebook or do not check it regularly. This leaves out a large portion of the population that might have otherwise been interested in participating but simply didn’t know about the events.

Expanding the reach beyond Facebook could go a long way in making these events more inclusive. A newsletter, flyers, or even a community website could help ensure that everyone—whether they are on social media or not—gets the chance to know about and attend upcoming activities. Diversifying promotional efforts is a crucial step in making sure the Civic League’s events are accessible to all residents.

Friction with the SHPOA Board

Another issue impacting the Civic League’s events is the relationship between the Civic League and the Snug Harbor Property Owners Association (SHPOA) Board of Governors. Many board members are also on the Civic League board, and over time, trust and faith in the SHPOA board have diminished for some. This has undoubtedly created tension that, while subtle, can impact the effectiveness of any community-driven initiative.

When board members or leaders within the community lose faith in one another, it’s harder to create the kind of united front needed to engage and inspire others. It’s important to acknowledge these challenges and have open, honest conversations about rebuilding trust, not just among board members, but with the broader community as well. It’s possible that the lack of engagement with the Civic League’s events is a reflection of this divide—residents may feel disconnected or unsure of how the Civic League and SHPOA boards are working together to serve the interests of the community.

A Shift in Community Priorities?

While the Civic League is certainly deserving of thanks for its hard work and dedication, it’s important to face the reality that there may be a shift in what the community wants and needs. The days when gatherings like Breakfast with Santa and the BYOB Social were a big draw may be over—at least in their current format. Communities evolve, and so do the interests of their residents. It may be time for the Civic League to rethink its events, adapting them to reflect the current desires and preferences of the Snug Harbor population.

Perhaps the focus should shift toward activities that encourage community members to collaborate or address the pressing concerns of the neighborhood. Events that feel more relevant or that invite active participation may help bring people back to the table.

The Importance of Community Engagement

Regardless of the turnout, the Civic League’s efforts are not in vain. Their commitment to creating a space for neighbors to come together should be acknowledged and appreciated. Even with small attendance, the fact that they continue to plan and execute these events shows a dedication to community spirit that is commendable.

However, it’s crucial for the Civic League to listen to the feedback (or lack thereof) and adjust accordingly. It might be time to try new methods of outreach, reimagine the types of events that are offered, and foster better communication and trust within the broader community. In the end, it’s not just about numbers—it’s about connection.

The Snug Harbor community deserves an environment where everyone feels included, heard, and valued. And while these events may not have attracted the crowds the Civic League had hoped for, it’s an opportunity to pivot and find new ways to engage the community, ensuring that Snug Harbor remains a place where neighbors come together, no matter how they connect.

Let’s continue to support the Civic League in their efforts and encourage open dialogue about what the community really needs. Together, we can find new ways to make Snug Harbor a vibrant and welcoming place for all.