For many people, being an active member of their neighborhood isn’t just about attending local schools, shopping in area supermarkets, and dining in nearby restaurants. It’s about attending events where they can meet up with their fellow neighbors and perhaps even assist neighbors through volunteering or other activities.

Depending on the area and your interests, finding the right venue for community participation may require some research since most neighborhoods offer a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, in addition to opportunities for community service. The following are just a few of the many options for getting involved in some Miami neighborhoods.

Wynwood

Wynwood Walls 

Miami Rescue Mission is a Wynwood-based organization dedicated to serving the homeless. The organization has many opportunities for volunteers, who are a vital part of the group’s ability to provide services. In addition to serving meals, you can also assist with youth programs, chapel/spiritual groups, or work at the thrift store. The group also accepts donations of clothing, furniture, and household items.

You can literally walk the streets of Wynwood (and view art and meet neighbors along the way) during the neighborhood’s popular art walks held every second Saturday of the month. You’re sure to meet the many local artists and business owners who set up booths for the event. In October, you can attend HalloWYN, Wynwood’s official Halloween block party. This free event, held Oct. 31, features food vendors, music and entertainment, live art, and costume contests.

Coconut Grove

Coconut Grove Farmers Market

In Coconut Grove, one of the biggest block parties of the year is the Coconut Grove Arts Festival, which is held by the nonprofit Coconut Grove Arts and Historical Association. It features more than 360 artists, food vendors, and live music along its waterfront location. Proceeds benefit the nonprofit organization.

If you’re looking for a more intimate (and free) way to meet neighbors, then you might try Movies in the Park held every fourth Friday during summer months at the Barnacle Historic State Park. Coconut Grove is also home to Shake a Leg Miami, a nonprofit organization that provides opportunities for children and adults with or without physical or mental challenges to experience Biscayne Bay. You can volunteer with the group or become a member, which helps support the group financially. You can even donate a boat.

Doral

Doral neighborhood of Miami photo courtesy of Madison L. Pereira

Residents who want to get outdoors and enjoy meeting up with neighbors have a few options in Doral. Lunch on the Lawn events are held on select Fridays throughout the year in Downtown Doral Park. Food and beverage are available to purchase.

Locals can also take part in Movies at the Park, a free event held on select Fridays at the park. Those seeking more altruistic opportunities to make an impact may choose to get involved with Neighbors for Neighbors, a nonprofit organization formed in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew in 1992. The group provides a wide range of services, such as disaster relief or giving school supplies to children in need. You can donate to the organization or serve as a volunteer.

Aventura

Aventura neighborhood of Miami photo courtesy of Mohmed Althani

In Aventura, residents can get involved with Lauren’s Kids, which educates adults and children about sexual abuse prevention through in-school curricula, awareness campaigns, and speaking engagements. The group has opportunities to donate or volunteer. If supporting the arts is more to your liking, you can support the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center by volunteering as an usher, although you must be a full-time South Florida resident and commit to a regular weekly shift or night of the week.

Kendall

Farmers market / Shutterstock

In Kendall, the Kendall Village Farmers Market isn’t just an opportunity to buy fresh vegetables and fruit, it’s a chance to mingle with residents in a block party setting on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kendall is also home to the WOW Center Miami, whose mission is to “provide quality programs and support to individuals with developmental disabilities for them to lead meaningful and productive lives.” Some of the programs offered include arts and ceramics, music therapy, life and work skills, and sports and health. You can volunteer with the organization, create awareness by being an ambassador through social media and email, or donate.

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