If you're looking to become more connected to the Russian Hill community, Russian Hill Neighbors (RHN) is a great place to start, with family-friendly social and educational events throughout the year.
Founded in 1981, RHN is a volunteer-based neighborhood association that seeks to engage the community, establish relationships with both neighbors and merchants, and keep the neighborhood safe and clean.
But it's also about forging relationships, said Emily Harrold, president of RHN. When new residents move into the neighborhood, she explained, they often ask questions like, "Who lives here?" and "What is my community like?" The social component of RHN is as important as the volunteer opportunities.
Photo: Nathan Falstreau/Hoodline
There are a variety of ways to get involved with RHN, and its events and gatherings are open to both members and non-members, including newcomers to the area.
On the third Saturday of each month, RHN holds a Neighborhood Sweep, with cleanup materials provided by DPW. "It's a great way to have an immediate impact on the cleanliness of our streets," Harrold told us.
RHN also holds a monthly Cheers Social to "organize activities for neighbors to socialize, while enjoying a bar or restaurant in the area," Harrold said. The social committee is also planning wine tastings and dinners for neighbors later this year.
Photo: Nathan Falstreau/Hoodline
While Harrold told us she often hears stories of families moving out of San Francisco to more suburban terrains, she's also noticed more families with children living in the neighborhood of late. To make sure RHN meets their needs, she and the other members have helped create more family-centered events. Family Night happens one Friday a month at Helen Wills Park, with snacks and drinks provided, as well as bubbles and chalk for the kids.
RHN also offers an annual Kids Safety Street Fair. Last year, SFPD took part, and this year, kids will get to interact with and learn from members of the San Francisco Fire Department, including climbing aboard a fire truck.
The organization also hosts special forums for the community, if members express concern about a particular issue. A safety forum on May 16th will include SFPD Central Station's Capt. David Lazar and several other officers who patrol the Russian Hill beat, who'll answer questions about crime in the neighborhood. They'll also give tips on safety and how to prevent break-ins and theft.
If you're interested in becoming a member, an application is available on RHN's website. To learn more about RHN and meet your neighbors, consider attending the next Cheers Social, from 6-8pm May 23rd at Bar Nua (561 Columbus Ave.)
