March is a unique time for Alaskans — a renewed energy as the sun returns, a rediscovery of items lost under the snow, an eagerness for summer preparations, and reconnecting with those you may not have seen in a while.
Beyond the natural and new transitions that March brings, this month is also Mr. Rogers’ Birthday. The late Mr. Rogers helped generations of people to understand that the best way to navigate change is to do it alongside others — our neighbors. In appreciation of Mr. Rogers’ values, the Southern Kenai Peninsula Resilience Coalition (SKPRC) has organized our 3rd Annual Meet Your Neighbor Month to encourage individuals, businesses and organizations to connect with their neighbors in a meaningful way.
Research shows us that healthy relationships have the power to shape our brains and can act as a buffer against tough times for both children and adults. This is why everyday connections are so important.
As a community, we all play a part in connections and positive relationships that can help our community thrive. Whether you carry a tow strap in your truck, housesit while a friend is away, or simply check in on the folks next door, that is what being a neighbor is all about — showing up for your community.
We invite you to be a part of this effort, both at home and at work, because we believe that a connected community is a resilient community. So, won’t you be my neighbor?
Community events
March 21: HIV Awareness Movie Screening — “Rent” at 6 p.m. at Homer Theatre
March 23: Recovery Speaker Series at 5:30 p.m. at Kachemak Bay Campus
March 27: Crafternoon for kids and teens at 4:45 p.m. at Homer Public Library; Wellness Wednesday — Wellness & Community at 5 p.m. at Kachemak Bay Campus
March 28: 2024 DeStig Cinema Series by South Peninsula Behavioral Health — “Flight” at 6 p.m. at Homer Theatre; Comprehensive Plan Rewrite — Community Open House at 6 p.m. at Islands and Ocean Visitor Center; Know Your Land — Drip Irrigation at 6 p.m. at Kachemak Bay Campus
March 30: Bishop’s Beach Bonfire — Normalizing Sobriety at 6:30 p.m. at Bishop’s Beach
Recurring Events
For parents, children and teens:
Sprout Toddler Playgroup, Tuesdays at 11 a.m. at Sprout Family Services
Sprout Baby Playgroup, Thursday at 11 a.m. at Sprout Family Services
Homer Library Story Time, Wednesday and Friday at 10:30 a.m. at Homer Public Library
Teen Night, Fridays at 9 p.m. at SPARC
Chess Club, Wednesdays at 3:30 p.m. at Homer Public Library
For all community members:
Community Jam Sessions, Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. at Homer Council on the Arts
Guided Snowshoeing, Wednesday and Saturday at 11 a.m. at Inspiration Ridge Preserve
Guided Snowshoeing, Friday and Saturday at 12 p.m. at Wynn Nature Center
The SKP Resilience Coalition is made up of organizations, community groups and individuals focused on cultivating healthy relationships and resilient families, free from violence and substance abuse.
