How to Engage Your Community as an HOA

12/10/2024 (Permalink)

HOA Board Having a Meeting

How to Engage Your Community as an HOA

Are you wondering how to engage your community as an HOA? One of the benefits of living in a neighborhood or community with a homeowners association (HOA) is that residents have opportunities to be connected and engaged. HOAs work best when you foster a sense of community.

However, many people who live in HOAs live as though they are on their own little "islands" instead of seeing their properties as part of a bigger picture. This frustrates HOA board members and those tasked with managing and overseeing HOAs. When HOA residents are engaged, this leads to increased volunteerism, safety, and quality of life! Everyone is happier when there's a stronger sense of community. That's why SERVPRO® works so hard to help local HOAs build a strong sense of pride for residents. We want to share seven proven tips for boosting resident engagement in your HOA.

1. Get on Social Media for Regular Communication

Helping residents connect online can help them connect in real life! It's up to you to decide whether to make your social media presence public or private. If you choose public, this could look like a Facebook or Instagram page. If you prefer a more guarded online presence, consider creating a private Facebook group for community members only. A private page offers a place where moderators can make announcements and share important community information. Additionally, residents can share photos and talk about the community. If you don't want to be dependent on social media to get residents connected, consider having a professional website that features a member portal. Residents can use login information to access postings and chat features.

2. Host Family Movie Nights

If your HOA has a clubhouse or outdoor common areas with lots of space, this creates the perfect opportunity to host family movie nights once a month. Invite residents to bring lawn chairs and snacks for a night of old-fashioned fun. The key here is to choose films of all ages that everyone can enjoy. If your community has a large shared outdoor space, consider moving the movie outdoors for the summer. Put a film projector in the budget for next quarter to start enjoying "films and fireflies" on gorgeous summer nights. If movie night succeeds, use the momentum to form a social committee to plan card nights, game nights, formal dances, and more.

3. Create a Community Volunteer Program

Consider creating a volunteer squad to help with everything from setting up HOA events to lending helping hands to neighbors during struggles. The truth is that people feel more invested in their community when they know they are needed. A volunteer squad allows residents to use their time and talents to improve their community. In addition, residents will see that they are part of a strong, vibrant community when they see volunteers working hard for the betterment of everyone.

4. Form a Book Club

Consider creating an official book club for your HOA to increase community engagement. The group can meet at a community space within the HOA or allow different members to host at their homes. A book club allows members to bond over a shared experience. It is both a social and intellectual pursuit.

5. Form Sports Leagues or Clubs

Wondering how to engage your community as an HOA in a fun, healthy way? If your HOA has a pool or pickleball/tennis court, consider introducing the idea of tournaments or competitions. Members can even form fun leagues. This is a great way to help members strengthen bonds while enjoying the health benefits of training for some friendly competition. Even HOA members who don't participate can still enjoy the fun of watching from the sidelines. If your HOA doesn't have amenities that support this type of thing, consider introducing a walking club that gives residents opportunities to stay active in a group atmosphere.

6. Create a Welcome Committee

Does your HOA have a welcome committee? If not, you're missing an opportunity to build a strong community by helping residents feel engaged right from the start! Welcome each new resident with a basket of muffins, some wine, or other goodies. It's also very important that the welcome letter accompanying the basket lists upcoming events happening in the community that everyone is encouraged to attend! Don't forget also to include an invitation to the next board meeting.

7. Make Your Homeowners Association HOA a Place People Can Be Proud to Live

Attempts to encourage active participation among community members won't go far if homeowners don't feel good about where they live. That's why keeping an HOA properly managed is the best way to increase community engagement. That means using long-term planning to create financial stability for the association. It also means providing clean, safe, and well-maintained spaces. Nothing hurts a sense of community like buildings that are falling apart. If residents have complained about the state of things, make sure you're doing an architectural review to ensure that everything is sound.

The foundation for engaging your community as an HOA is simply creating a place where people can feel safe and take pride in their homes. That's why any structures damaged by weather or age should be taken care of by a company offering commercial building restoration services. Don't let problems linger. Call for restoration today!

Hurricane Helene Donation Drive

10/9/2024 (Permalink)

Hurricane Helene Donation Drive

Hurricane Helene Donation Drive

SERVPRO of Arcadia, Pasadena North, and Alhambra are joining forces with Baldwin Movers in a community-wide effort to support the victims of Hurricane Helene. This devastating storm has left many families in urgent need of essential supplies. We are reaching out to our community, inviting you to contribute and positively impact those affected by the disaster.

The donation drive runs through October 31, 2024, and all donations will be shipped to local organizations in the affected areas. Your contributions will bring relief and hope to individuals and families facing tremendous challenges.

We are accepting donations at several convenient locations. Please see the list of most needed items below and find a drop-off location near you. Every donation can make a big difference in helping those in need recover and rebuild.

Most Needed Items:

• Clothing (all sizes)
• Blankets
• Toys and stuffed animals
• Hygiene products (new)
• Shelf-stable foods and canned goods
• PPE and contractor trash bags

Drop-Off Locations:

SERVPRO of Arcadia, Pasadena North, and Alhambra
1848 Evergreen St, Duarte, CA 91010
Office: 626-447-4111
Hours: 8 AM – 4 PM

Baldwin Movers
13326 Elliot Ave, Chino, CA 91710
Office: 888-974-0002
Hours: 9 AM – 3 PM

Arcadia Chamber of Commerce
388 W Huntington Dr, Arcadia, CA 91007
Office: 626-447-2159
Tues, Wed, Thurs: 9 AM – 5 PM

We invite you to join us in making a difference in the lives of those affected by Hurricane Helene. With the power of community, we can bring comfort and aid to those in need.

Celebrating 18 Years of Excellence: Offering Free Estimates All June!

5/30/2024 (Permalink)

Helping restore the community with free estimates all month long!

We are thrilled to announce that SERVPRO of Arcadia is celebrating a significant milestone this year—18 years of ownership since June 1, 2006. Over the years, we've been dedicated to providing top-notch restoration services to our community, and this anniversary marks a moment of pride and gratitude for us.

To show our appreciation for the unwavering support we've received, we are excited to offer FREE estimates to everyone throughout the entire month of June! Whether you need restoration for water damage, fire damage, or any other property concern, our experienced team is here to help.

This special offer is our way of saying thank you to the residents and businesses of our community who have trusted us with their restoration needs over the years. We look forward to continuing to serve you with the same dedication and excellence that has defined SERVPRO of Arcadia since 2006.

Contact us today to schedule your free inspection and join us in celebrating 18 years of exceptional service!

We Stand with Lahaina: A Community’s Generosity Crosses the Pacific

10/31/2023 (Permalink)

This is a photo collage on top of the flyer that sparked a wave of donations to flow into our warehouse, which were then packed and shipped to Maui.

In the wake of natural disasters, the resilience of the human spirit often shines the brightest. The devastating wildfires that tore through Lahaina, Maui, in August 2023 were a heartbreaking reminder of nature’s unpredictable wrath. But as Lahaina faced the aftermath, over 2,400 miles away in Los Angeles, a beacon of hope was being kindled.

Community Comes Together

For many, watching the news coverage of the Lahaina wildfires evoked a profound sense of sorrow and helplessness. However, our team here at SERVPRO of Arcadia, Alhambra, and Pasadena North, it ignited a fervent determination to lend a helping hand. Recognizing the urgent need for support, the team mobilized the community in Los Angeles with a clarion call to action: a donation drive throughout September.

From LA to Lahaina: Shipping Love and Support

The response was overwhelming. Families, businesses, and individuals from all walks of life stepped up, donating essential items ranging from non-perishable food, clothing, and medical supplies to toys, books, and household goods. Every item, a symbol of a community's unyielding support for another in their time of need.

What made this drive especially heartwarming was the shared understanding that it wasn’t just about sending items; it was about sending love, solidarity, and a promise that Lahaina was not alone in their recovery journey.

Gratitude from the Islands

The donated goods, carefully packed and labeled with love, were shipped off to the families in Lahaina. The reception on the island was deeply touching, with many residents expressing their heartfelt gratitude. For some families, these packages represented a fresh start, a glimmer of hope amid the ashes and rubble.

For Lahaina, a town renowned for its close-knit community and Aloha spirit, the shipments from Los Angeles reinforced the belief that the spirit of 'ohana (family) extends beyond island borders. It’s a testament to the global community that comes together, time and time again, in the face of adversity.

A Lasting Impact

While the donation drive was centered around a month-long effort, its impact will be felt for years to come. As Lahaina begins the long process of rebuilding, they do so knowing they have friends thousands of miles away, ready to support, uplift, and assist in any way possible.

From SERVPRO of Arcadia, Alhambra, and Pasadena North, a huge mahalo (thank you) to those all those who made this happen, bridging the distance and reminding us all about the power of community, kindness, and shared humanity.

In times of disaster, it’s often said that every bit helps. But sometimes, it's more than just "a bit" – it's a whole community's love and care being shipped across the vast Pacific. And that makes all the difference.

Let's conserve our water!

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

California is currently suffering one of the worst droughts and in order to conserve the water we have we must do our part. Our conservation efforts can make a huge impact on the quality of our environment. We may feel like we are such a small piece of a larger pie, but if each one of us contributed to making changes it would help “minimize water waste, rebuild our underground aquifers, prepare for the uncertainties of climate change, and minimize the harmful effects of drought” (water.ca.gov).

According to the California Department of Water Resources, here are a few ways we can contribute to water conservation:

Indoor Conservation Tips

• Fix leaks, including leaky toilets
• Install high-efficiency toilets, aerators on bathroom faucets, and water-efficient shower heads
• Take shorter (5 minute) showers
• Track your water bill and meter to curtail water use
• Turn off water when brushing teeth or shaving
• Use dishwashers and washing machines with full loads only

Outdoor Conservation Tips

• Plant drought-tolerant/resistant plants and trees
• Recycle indoor water to use on plants
• Refrain from watering your home landscape when it rains
• Replace your grass/turf with water-wise plants
• Use a broom to clean driveways, patios, and sidewalks instead of water from a hose
• Water your outdoor landscape earlier in the day when temperatures are cooler

Information provided by: https://water.ca.gov/water-basics/conservation-tips

Bolton & Company Corn Hole Toss

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

Corn Hole toss at the Rose Bowl.

This was our first year attending Bolton and Company’s fundraiser at the Rose Bowl and what an experience that was. We participated in their annual corn hole toss tournament. Although we didn’t win, we had a great time and met a lot of genuine people because of it. The purpose of the fundraiser was to raise money for charity and organizations that help those in need. We a grateful to have such a caring business in the city of Arcadia. SERVPRO of Arcadia wants to thank everyone at Bolton and Company that made this event possible and a memorable experience for us. We’re looking forward to next years event!!!

Pasadena Ronald McDonald House

12/21/2017 (Permalink)

Pasadena Ronald McDonald House

The season of giving is upon us and this year we were able to spread some Holiday cheer, to the children at the Pasadena Ronald McDonald House. The House does so much for these children and their families while they receive treatment in the surrounding hospitals. Being able to donate our time with children was a reward in itself. Despite their condition they had positive attitudes and personalities that were larger than life.

We spent the afternoon decorating Christmas stockings. The children were very creative and seeing them smile and forget about their condition for those few hours, was definitely priceless. One of the children we met was Jesus, he had such a charismatic personality and he had a ball decorating several different stockings.

Thank you Pasadena Ronald McDonald House for everything you do, we appreciate the opportunity of being able to give back!

Memorial Day 2017

5/24/2017 (Permalink)

Arcadia County Park

This year, Memorial Day is on Monday May 29, 2017. It is recognized as an observed federal holiday and a day when we take the time to remember and thank the men and women who died serving our country. 

SERVPRO of Arcadia is proud to be a part of a community who pays tribute to the men and women of our Armed Forces. The City of Arcadia proudly recognizes Our Fallen Heroes by displaying American flags alongside the Arcadia County Park located at 405 S. Santa Anita, Ca 91006.

We would like to take the time to honor the men and women of our Armed Forces. We thank you for your service and for protecting our great country!

"Gone but never forgotten"

2017 Arcadia Firefighters Association Pancake Breakfast

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

2017 Arcadia Firefighters Association Pancake Breakfast

The 20th Annual Arcadia Firefighters Association Pancake Breakfast fell on a cold and rainy Spring morning. However, that did not stop the event from being a true success. The day was filled with delicious food, emergency preparedness education and fun activities for the children. SERVPRO of Arcadia understands the importance of fire safety that is why, we gave away free Fire Safety coloring books to the children. Because educating our children about the potential danger of fire starts at an early age.

The Firefighters of the City of Arcadia work very diligently to promote fire safety and keep the community safe from fires and other hazards. They're the epitome of true heroes and are selfless when it comes to serving their community. 

It was an honor to be a part of this event and we can not wait to do it again next year!

Safety @ Lake

2/7/2017 (Permalink)

On January 31st, 2018 SERVPRO of Arcadia was featured as an Emergency Response vendor at Lake Ave Church's Emergency Preparedness Fair, "Safety @ Lake". This is our 4th year participating in this fun and informative event. Treasure, Marian and Levi make this event possible by bringing together local businesses that serve the great city of Pasadena. It was a day filled with workshops for adults as well as children, teaching the importance of being prepared for an emergency. Although there is no telling when or a disaster may strike, at least you know you can count on SERVPRO of Arcadia heroes to have your back. With over 1,600 locations nationwide your SERVPRO heroes are only a phone call away. We will help leave it, "Like it never even happened."

Taste Of Arcadia & Business Showcase !

9/16/2016 (Permalink)

Taste of Arcadia

Taste of Arcadia is around the corner!

When?

Monday, September 26th

5:30pm- 9pm

Location

The Los Angeles County Arboretum (301 N. Baldwin Ave, Arcadia Ca). 

The Taste of Arcadia & Business Showcase is held by The Arcadia Chamber of Commerce.  This year's Taste of Arcadia and Business showcase will have an additional 40-plus business exhibitors and one will be SERVPRO's booth. This is SERVPRO of Arcadia's second year with a business showcase booth at the taste. Last year was an amazing turnout. We met a lot of people from our Arcadia community and passed out helpful information about SERVPRO. This year we expect to draw 1,800 attendees to enjoy the many different foods from 45 of Arcadia's local restaurants, caterers, and wine and beer vendors. This is the Arcadia Chambers biggest event! Don't miss out on the amazing food & entertainment. 

Visit our booth!

To get your tickets at:

 arcadiacachamber.org