• Arbor & Earth Day – Partner with any clubs that focus on gardening, recycling, etc., and celebrate. You can feature informational speakers, host nature walks, or even plant a tree in honor of the occasion.
Summer • Pool Party – Time to use those seasonal amenities. Host a pool party with a DJ and activities in the pool. Noodle races, limbo, hula hoops… the possibilities are endless.
• Fishing – Do you have a lake or ponds on your property? Think about offering fishing lessons to those interested. You can even host a fishing derby! Be sure to check your local municipality, county, and state regulations on this first.
THEME PARTIES
Think theme parties are just for kids? THINK AGAIN! Residents love and appreciate a well-done theme party. These parties are great for all ages. You can even incorporate costumes into your event which solves the answer to that age old question, “What do I wear?” Check out some unique ideas below:
• Cinco do Mayo – Serve tacos, margaritas and hire a mariachi band. Ole!
• Kentucky Derby – You’re off to the races with a best hat competition and mint juleps. Serve light sandwiches and have homeowners place bets on the horses, and you’re set for an unforgettable event.
• Decades – You have the freedom to really do it big with a decades party. Pick one decade (hello - flower child or 80s rocker!) or do a combination of “Dancing through the Decades” where attendees come dressed as whatever decade floats their boat. Pair this with a band performing hits from the time period and your residents will be rockin’ and boppin’ all night long.
TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL EVENT Spread the Word!
Now that you have a fabulous event planned it’s time to let everyone know about it. You’ll want to get the word out in multiple ways to ensure you’re reaching as many people as possible. Post flyers in your clubhouse, include mention in a weekly email and post on any social media your community may utilize.
Have your residents assist in being your cheerleaders and talking up the event with friends and neighbors.
Partner with Clubs
Don’t be afraid to ask for help and reach out to the clubs in your community to assist in planning events. These volunteers are ready and willing to help out and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience with them. Do you have a photo club? Work with them to be your event photographers. Do you have a music club? Coordinate with them to have them perform at an upcoming event.
Community Partners Work with local businesses, your community vendors, and other organizations to sponsor an event.
These partners can provide funds to offset costs and in return they receive recognition for sponsoring the event. If possible, allow community partners to set up a table during the event to promote their business. They will usually bring some exciting giveaways and/or hold raffles – and the residents love chatting with them.
As CAI celebrates 50 years of excellence, these ideas are simply a starting point. By embracing a few fun social events, you can bring residents together and create a sense of belonging and camaraderie. It’s in the shared moments that neighbors transform into true community. What idea will you champion to get the party started?
58 | COMMON INTEREST®
• Winter 2025 • A Publication of CAI-Illinois Chapter
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