Bloomington's newest initiative is rolling out the welcome mat for folks putting down roots in the neighborhood. "Welcome to Bloomington," a program launched this January, is the city’s latest effort to make newcomers feel at home in their new digs, whether they've signed a lease or a mortgage. The initiative is a collaborative brainchild—conceived by local residents, community partners, and city staff alike—and aims to effectively plug new residents into the tapestry of Bloomington life.
This program is set to integrally acquaint new residents with must-dos around town. A curated "bucket list" of local events and destinations, neighborhood soirees, and specially tailored gatherings including a resource and cultural fair are on the docket. The plunge into local culture took off with the inaugural meeting, which took place on January 20 at the sprawling Mall of America, as stated in a news release by the city of Bloomington.
"We are focused on engaging new residents in City and community resources while connecting current and new residents," explained Faith Jackson, Bloomington’s Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer, adhering to the project's communal spirit. The program's success hinges on fostering a robust sense of belonging and encouraging new Bloomingtonians to weave into the fabric of the city, thus strengthening community bonds.
Missed the first meeting? Fear not. Mark your calendar for two more upcoming sessions designed to warmly usher in the city's newcomers. On Thursday, February 15, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., head to Dar Al Farooq at 8201 Park Ave. S. Or, if a weekend date suits you better, drop by the Nine Mile Brewery at 9555 James Ave. S., Suite 290, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 2.
For those eager to get a jumpstart on their new Bloomington life, or for any further inquiries regarding the program, the city encourages reaching out via email to [email protected]. More details can also be found by visiting the Welcome to Bloomington program page.
