Proclamation
Honoring
National Good Neighbor Day
WHEREAS, strong neighborhoods are the foundation of safe, healthy, welcoming, and inclusive communities, where people can feel connected, supported, and a true sense of belonging; and WHEREAS, in an increasingly disconnected world, many Americans do not know the names of their neighbors, and too often the idea of a “good neighbor” is simply someone who keeps to themselves . Communities across our nation are experiencing rising levels of isolation and loneliness, challenges that can affect physical and mental health, life expectancy, well-being, social connection, and the strength of our communities; and WHEREAS, research shows that meaningful relationships among neighbors can strengthen individual well -being, contributing to better mental and physical health and longer, healthier lives; and WHEREAS, when neighbors know, trust, and care for one another, communities are better equipped to respond to disasters, prevent crime, participate in civic life, support one another in times of need, and build economic resilience . Something as simple as learning a neighbor’s name, sharing a conversation, lending a helping hand, or welcoming someone new can become the first step toward building trust and creating a stronger community; and WHEREAS, National Good Neighbor Day was first proclaimed in 1978 by President Jimmy Carter as an opportunity to strengthen communities and encourage friendship and goodwill among neighbors; and WHEREAS, this day reminds us that building community does not always begin with grand gestures —it begins at our front doors, across our fences, on our sidewalks, and with the simple invitation to know our neighbors; and WHEREAS, by choosing connection over isolation and kindness over indifference, each of us can help create neighborhoods where people look out for one another, celebrate one another, and ensure that no neighbor feels alone; and
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Dan Slater, Mayor of the City of Orange , and the entire City Council, do proclaim September 28, 2026 as National Good Neighbor Day in the City of Orange. I call upon the residents of Orange to join me in observing this day by introducing yourself to, getting to know, and celebrating your neighbors.
DATED this 22nd day of September 2026.
Daniel R. Slater, Mayor
Arianna Barrios, Councilmember
Kathy Tavoularis, Councilmember
Ana Gutierrez, Councilmember
Jon Dumitru, Councilmember
Denis Bilodeau, Mayor pro tem
John Gyllenhammer, Councilmember