National Good Neighbor Day
National Good Neighbor Day: September 28th
National Good Neighbor Day is celebrated each year on September 28th as a heartfelt reminder of how important it is to foster kindness and connection within our communities. In an age where we often only know our neighbors in passing, this day is an opportunity to reach out, lend a hand, and build stronger, friendlier streets.
Originally created in the 1970s by Becky Mattson of Lakeside, Montana, the day gained national recognition when President Jimmy Carter signed Proclamation 4601 in 1978. In 2004, the date was officially set to September 28th, and ever since, it’s been a chance to celebrate the people who make our lives a little brighter — our neighbors.
Key Facts About National Good Neighbor Day
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | 28 September (annually) |
| First Established | 1970s by Becky Mattson (Montana) |
| National Recognition | 1978 (Proclamation 4601 by President Jimmy Carter) |
| Purpose | To promote kindness and strengthen communities |
| Ways to Celebrate | Host events, share appreciation, offer help |
Why Being a Good Neighbor Matters
Good neighbors help create safe, inclusive, and thriving communities. Whether it’s helping carry groceries, mowing a shared lawn, or simply offering a warm “hello,” small acts of kindness help build trust and belonging. As President Carter noted, “Understanding, love, and respect are the foundation of cohesive communities.”
Ways to Celebrate National Good Neighbor Day
- Offer a kind gesture – Bake cookies, write a thank-you note, or offer to help with gardening or errands
- Host a street party or coffee morning – Bring your community together with food, music, and laughter
- Plan a shared activity – Watch a movie, walk your dogs together, or start a book club
- Support elderly or isolated neighbours – Check in on them and offer a helping hand
- Celebrate your neighbour publicly – Share a shoutout online or leave a surprise thank-you gift
Heartwarming Neighbor Story: Angie & Danielle
One of the most inspiring stories of neighbourly love comes from Hudson, Florida. Angie Tyma had lived in her home for 35 years, but after the person responsible for her mortgage failed to make payments, foreclosure became inevitable. On her 89th birthday, her neighbor Danielle Calder bought the house for $167,000 — just to rent it back to Angie so she could stay in the home she loved. This act of generosity reminded the entire neighborhood that community is about more than proximity — it’s about family.
Fun Movie Idea: Watch “The ‘Burbs”
Celebrate the day with a neighborly movie night! We recommend The ’Burbs, a quirky comedy starring Tom Hanks as Ray Peterson — a man suspicious of his eccentric new neighbors, the Klopeks. It’s a funny and fitting watch that reminds us how interesting neighbor dynamics can be!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is National Good Neighbor Day?
It’s an annual observance held on September 28th that encourages people to strengthen relationships with those who live nearby through kindness, support, and connection.
How can I be a good neighbor?
- Offer to help with errands or outdoor work
- Greet and check in regularly
- Respect boundaries and property
- Include neighbors in events or celebrations
Why was this day created?
To promote goodwill, harmony, and stronger community ties. Becky Mattson founded it to encourage appreciation of good neighbors and was later supported nationally by President Carter.
Future Dates for National Good Neighbor Day
| Year | Date | Day of the Week |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 28 September 2024 | Saturday |
| 2025 | 28 September 2025 | Sunday |
| 2026 | 28 September 2026 | Monday |
| 2027 | 28 September 2027 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | 28 September 2028 | Thursday |
Hashtags for National Good Neighbor Day
- #GoodNeighborDay
- #BeAGoodNeighbor
- #CommunityMatters
- #KindnessStartsNextDoor
- #NeighboursUnite
- Hashtags #GoodNeighborDay #BeAGoodNeighbor #CommunityMatters #KindnessStartsNextDoor #NeighboursUnite
