Maybe you’re one of the lucky ones that once the neighbors saw the moving truck, they were at your doorstep—casserole dish in hand. More than likely, this wasn’t the case and you’ll have to reach out to your neighbors to settle in your new neighborhood.

1. FIND OPPORTUNITIES

Create opportunities for conversation and be the first to say hi. Whether you linger by the mailbox, play ball with the kids in the yard or walk the dog, it’s likely someone else will be out and about. Say “hi” and explain that you’re new to the neighborhood. You’ll be surprised at the doors this will open.

HOUSEWARMING PARTY

Invite your neighbors for a “sip and see” party at your house. Serve punch and cookies or cocktails and appetizers, invite the neighbors and see how friendships will build. If you have kids invite all the neighborhood kids over for a play date. Then, your kids can also get to know their neighbors and make friends.

3. JOIN A GROUP

Join a local organization. It doesn’t matter if it’s a church or your favorite nonprofit group. This makes it easier to find people who care about the same things you do. Just remember not to compare the new with the old, especially out loud.

4. EXPLORE THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Plan to do something new in your community each week. A few ideas are to try a restaurant, go to a school sporting event or sign up for a class at the community center. Mixing in with what everyone around you is doing is a great way to get involved with a new neighborhood.

Moving to a new neighborhood is rarely easy, but being pro-active can make all the difference.