Experienced community managers know the drill. A vocal unit owner — sometimes a well-meaning new resident, other times a seasoned grumbler — marches into the office and says, “There are 250 units in this building, but only the same 10 people ever show up at board meetings!”


Ironically, that complaint usually signals that things are going well. A stable condominium association with strong leadership does not tend to draw a big crowd — until there’s a controversial issue or a proposed special assessment. Then, you suddenly need a new stadium.


Still, participation matters. As community leaders, we want residents to be informed, involved, and engaged, and not just when they are upset. So how do we inspire that kind of ongoing connection, i.e., love of the home team? In any common-interest community, residents tend to fall into a few familiar roles, broken down football-style:


• Players – The Board


• Head Coach – The Community Manager • Cheerleaders or Mascot – Committee Members


• Fans – Owners who attend meetings or read communications


• Casual Spectators – Everyone else


(Yes, there may also be the occasional loudmouth or streaker who interferes with the game —but for this analogy, we will pretend security handled them quickly.)


Here’s the game plan to encourage more spectators to become fans or cheerleaders:


Communicate Like a Pro Coach Fans don’t show up without knowing the season schedule. Similarly, residents cannot stay informed without consistent, accessible communication.


• Keep it regular: A weekly or monthly e-newsletter with updates, reminders, and fun facts helps owners feel connected.


• Make it readable: Avoid jargon. Use bold headers and bullet points to keep it skimmable.


• Be targeted: Don’t e-blast everyone with messages that only apply to one tier or floor. When you tailor communication, people are more likely to read it.


Yet, even the best communication plan can be ignored. Every community manager has a story like this: An owner — dripping wet and mid-shampoo — storms into the office, outraged that the hot water was turned off. Despite three emails, elevator notices, and a paper flyer slid under their door, they claim they had no idea. In this case, that’s a Penalty Flag on the owner. The Coach did their job…but it is a reminder that people need both information and motivation.


Tailgating (a.k.a. Hosting Community Events)


Fans who strongly identify with their team are more likely to experience positive emotions about it, including pride and a sense of belonging. Hosting quarterly mixers or open houses helps newer residents meet the team. After all, it is more fun to cheer alongside neighbors once you know them, even a little. Food, drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere can work wonders for engagement. Even a casual morning “Coffee Kickoff” in the lobby or a “Halftime Huddle” happy hour in the lounge can help build stronger ties. These informal gatherings open the door to conversations about the building or community, fostering both connection and awareness.


Encourage (and Welcome) Fan Feedback


Not everyone likes football, and that’s okay, but even casual spectators might tune in for the Super Bowl commercials, and every resident will have a concern eventually. For those who aren’t the “mixer” type, make it easy for them to ask questions or share feedback in low-pressure ways:


• Use anonymous feedback forms or QR codes posted in common areas.


• Offer short surveys in newsletters or via email.


• Acknowledge every comment or question promptly. Even a brief response like, “We’re looking into it and will get back to you,” lets people know that their voice matters.


The more people feel heard, the more likely they are to stay tuned in.


Empower the Cheerleaders Every great team has a dynamic mascot, a catchy chant, or a squad of skilled dancers with a routine to keep the crowd energized. In your community, those are the committee members — residents who want to contribute but are not looking to be on the board. Empower these owners by forming focused, practical committees. A few ideas:


• Green Thumb Committee – For communities with landscaping needs or a potential vegetable garden or green roof space.


• Traffic Tackle Team – Perfect if your building is near a busy venue and regularly deals with blocked driveways or garage entrances.


• Party Room Playmakers – Planning a renovation? In addition to a Decorating Committee, survey residents about how they really use the space. Do they want a kids’ corner? A streaming TV zone? Charging stations with areas to work on a laptop?


• Just Do It Committee – Do you have a resident who’s a personal trainer or fitness buff? Recruit them to help design an upgrade plan for outdated gym equipment.


18 | COMMON INTEREST® • Fall 2025 • A Publication of CAI-Illinois Chapter


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