Coming Home Magazine

ASK A COMMUNITY MANAGER How Can You Be a Good Neighbor During Hard Times? Expert advice about caring for others in your community. Living in a managed community has many perks, but the inherent sense of togetherness and belonging may be the most valued. To cultivate and preserve this unique benefit, it's important to recognize when someone might need assistance or a word of encouragement. Instead of rushing to conclusions, it's best to keep an open mind—and an open heart—to help each other get through hard times. We asked Haley Murphy, CMCA®, AMS®, to share her expert advice about how to be a good neighbor during joyful seasons and challenging ones. The past year brought unimaginable stress and chaos to our lives. Getting through difficult times isn't an 'every person for themselves' situation; it requires a 'we're all in this together' mentality. The following are some creative ways you can connect and support your neighbors amid heightened circumstances: " " Haley Murphy, CMCA®, AMS®, has been working in the association management industry since 2012, overseeing 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's currently a general manager at Rolling Hills Ranch, a large-scale 1,687 single-family home development that consists of five swim clubs, nine tot-lots, and 4,000 trees on 75 acres of land located in Chula Vista, California. Haley enjoys spending time with her two daughters and two dogs, and loves hiking and being outdoors. Q A 28 • CHECK¢IN: Feelings of isolation or stress can take a significant emotional toll. Let your neighbors know you're there by sending a quick message or leaving notes on their doors. Routinely checking-in to catch up is an easy way to brighten someone's day. • SHOW SUPPORT: Lending a helping hand goes a long way and doesn't need to take a lot of effort. Offering to pick up milk, sharing your favorite binge-worthy show, sending a new recipe, or even loaning a fun board game are all small acts that can make a big difference. • BE UNDERSTANDING: It can be frustrating when your neighbor's grass grows a little too tall, or their trash cans are left outside for an extra day, but you shouldn't assume they're doing this on purpose. Give some grace and have patience—you never know what someone is going through. • REMAIN CONSIDERATE: It's vital to think about how your actions can impact your neighbor's daily lives. Be mindful of things like your dog's barking and general noise levels, and consider how they're affecting others.

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