(BPT) - H&R Block and Nextdoor, like-minded companies with deep commitments to neighborhood connections, have once again teamed up to bring much-needed improvement projects to communities across the country. Individuals are encouraged to submit project ideas that build connections between neighbors while also uplifting small businesses. Project nominations are being accepted through March 31. Nextdoor and H&R Block will select and bring to life select submissions in 2021.
H&R Block believes in the importance of thriving local communities, as it creates more connected neighborhoods and supports small business through its community impact platform Make Every Block Better. To date, the company has provided funding to startups, built homes, made home repairs in underserved neighborhoods, launched a new program to help Black small business owners access capital, and more. Details about its work can be found at makeeveryblockbetter.com.
According to a 2020 global study conducted by Nextdoor, performing small acts of kindness for neighbors reduces the likelihood of feeling lonely and increases neighborhood unity.
2020 projects built neighborhood connections
Last year, local communities nominated projects to restore sports courts at a historic community center, to build gardens to strengthen engagement between neighbors, or clean up alleyways by replacing weeds and garbage with a wildflower alley. In a downtown Cincinnati neighborhood, local businesses and neighbors came together to paint street murals to literally connect a local elementary school to the community garden across the street.
“H&R Block has the unique ability to help our neighbors since our associates live and work in these communities across the country. Right now is a critical time to help since so many people are feeling isolated,” said Jeff Jones, president and CEO of H&R Block. “I’m incredibly proud that our first year of this effort helped more than 3.4 million people and 50 small businesses in 10 cities, and look forward to another successful year.”
Involving small businesses helps the fabric of communities
Small business owners are an integral part of any community, and this year nominators are asked to include in their submission the small businesses they’d like to invite to help with the project. The effort is aligned with H&R Block’s goal to positively impact both 500 communities and 500,000 small businesses by 2025.
Nominate a community improvement project
Do you have an idea for a project that would connect and uplift your neighborhood?
You can find a simple nomination form online, which includes idea-starters like:
- What type of project are you considering? Options include neighborhood beautification, neighborhood cleanups, park renewals and community gardens
- What are some small businesses you’d like to invite to be part of the project?
- Why would this project be meaningful to your neighborhood? Include any pictures or other documents to support your nomination
Visit hrbnextdoor.com to learn more about the 2020 projects and to nominate a new project in your neighborhood.
