Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1308487
ASK A CAM How Can Communities Come Together While Staying Apart? Expert advice for connecting from a distance. 2020 has been a year full of unprecedented challenges and unpredictable events. Times are tough, and connecting with your neighbors and promoting community engagement is more important than ever. To get expert advice on how communities can come together while staying apart, we asked Haley Murphy, CMCA®, AMS®, to share her insights on providing support in today's socially-distanced world. Like many communities, my association had to cancel some of our wonderful hosted events this year, even our summer garage sale. In this time of social distancing, it can be challenging to continue to build a sense of community; however, there are still ways to show support — even if you can't be face to face. As always, communication is vital. Board members should constantly keep residents in the loop and let them know about projects taking place and what's happening within the community. It's essential to take the time to educate members about the logistics of the association, make sure they understand the role of the board, and be transparent about the financial situation. Being open, honest, and accessible in a time of great uncertainty promotes trust and connection. During the holiday season, you can show residents you care about their safety and well-being by sharing information about special precautions they can take to protect their privacy and finances, as well as tips for putting up festive lights and decorations. And while the block party or annual cookie exchange may be on hold, it doesn't mean you can't celebrate in other ways. Boards can consider starting a 'Home of the Month' feature, hosting a virtual cooking class, or holding a contest for the best holiday décor. This year has been hard, and we may not know what'll happen next, but being there for your neighbors — in whatever way you can — makes all the di•erence. " " Haley Murphy has been working in the association management industry since 2012, managing a variety of portfolio properties, including condominiums, mixed-use, and master developments. Haley became a Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA®) in 2013 and earned her Association Management Specialist (AMS®) designation in 2016. She is currently a General Manager at Rolling Hills Ranch, a large- scale development that consists of five swim clubs, nine tot-lots, 75 acres of land, 4,000 trees, and 1,687 single-family homes in Chula Vista, CA. Haley enjoys spending time with her two daughters and two dogs and loves hiking and being outdoors. 11