Get Greening with a Block Association

Brooklyn Botanic Garden requires entrants to the Greenest Block in Brooklyn contest to register as a group, such as a block association, HOA, or civic organization. If one doesn’t exist for your block, why not start one? Even informal, ad-hoc groups are welcome in the contest.

Greenest Block in Brooklyn judges will look for group participation in greening and gardening efforts—such as street tree maintenance, signage, or shared gardening areas—as well as engagement by multiple buildings and residents of all ages. Gardening together is a wonderful way to meet neighbors and build community!

What Is a Block Association?

A block association is people coming together where they live to make their neighborhood great. In New York City, there’s no formal process to create one—all you need is a name, a purpose, and a plan to get neighbors involved.

Your block may already have an association. Many associations register with their Community Board to request permits, such as for street closures for block parties. Ask neighbors or call your local Community Board office. If you start a new group, share information with your Community Board so others can find you.

How to Get Started

Gather your neighbors

Invite neighbors to meet up and share ideas—and serve refreshments if you can! Aim to keep the meeting under 90 minutes, and leave time to identify next steps and volunteers. While gardening may be your focus, stay open to other interests and community needs.

Set an agenda and share notes

Choose a facilitator to keep the discussion focused and ensure everyone has a chance to speak. A facilitator is a good listener and does not dominate the conversation. Ask for a volunteer note-taker to write down key decisions and follow-up tasks, and share notes afterward.

Collect contact information

At every meeting, gather names, emails, phone numbers, and addresses. Make note of special skills or interests in gardening, working with youth, or helping elders. Create an email list or Google group to stay connected.

Make Greening a Group Activity

Enter your block in the contest and spread the word

Register your block for the Greenest Block in Brooklyn contest by June 1. Display your “We’ve Entered!” signs, and share upcoming meeting and activity dates.

Form a gardening committee

Even two dedicated neighbors can lead greening efforts—coordinating activities like container plantings or submitting a tree service request to the Parks Department.

Plan a clean-and-green day

Organize a block-wide event to encourage neighbors to sweep, clean, and share plants. NYC’s Department of Sanitation (DSNY) can supply tools and trash bags—see its Volunteer Clean-up Program tip sheet for more information.

Make learning a part of your mission

Neighbors make the best teachers! Hold a window-box planting demonstration. Share sustainable-gardening tip sheets provided by BBG. Invite your neighbors to a Greenest Block in Brooklyn workshop at BBG or request a walk-and-talk visit on your block with BBG staff.

Keep the Momentum

Don’t go it alone

Feeling overwhelmed? Tell an interested neighbor that you’d really appreciate some support. You’ll never know who might pitch in—or lead—unless you ask.

Knock on doors

Take a neighbor with you to visit folks face to face. Invite participation, ask for suggestions, and listen to their ideas.

Have fun!

Urban gardening can be challenging—start with manageable projects like composting, tree beds, murals, signage, or youth activities. Celebrate your achievements together, no matter how small.