Bringing your Community Together Safely COVID-Safe Tips & Tactics for Hosting Events

We are not living in a post-COVID world just yet. Despite this, as we navigate an ever-evolving situation, it’s essential to find ways to keep up morale – especially within our communities. And while the technical aspects of property management are undoubtedly important, you have to recognize that at the end of the day, you’re in the business of people – serving them and assuring them a top-quality living experience. Accomplishing such a goal requires going a step beyond the administrative and delving deep into the personal. As a leader in the industry, we have the resources, information, and expertise to help guide board members of the communities we manage to achieve just that, creating a safe space for their residents to interact and connect. After all, the baseline purpose behind HOAs is to bring people together and create a sense of community.

Be Thoughtful.

Our people-first philosophy always drives our decisions, so when approaching events, that’s where we advise you to turn to – your people, first. Whether it’s your community Facebook page, an Instagram poll, e-blast, or however it is you communicate with your residents, get their input before you plan anything. With their insight, you can curate a gathering that truly speaks to the people you are doing it for. Include every kind of option: a cookout, a pool party, a potluck, a community-wide garage sale, food trucks, an outdoor movie night, an ice cream social, a wine tasting, a vendor fair – get creative with it.

Be Responsible.

Set yourself up for success and get insured for your event. Even if it seems like a harmless, risk-free situation, assumptions can catch you off guard. When you ensure your community is protected from any kind of liability, you and your board members can go into the event with peace of mind. Speak to an insurance professional about potentially acquiring special event liability insurance, which covers short-term private and public events against injuries your guests may experience and property damage claims. Coordinate accordingly and anticipate any possibilities.

Be Safe.

Your guests’ safety should always be the biggest priority. Whether you’re holding an event outdoors at a park, in a venue, your on-site recreation center, or any common space, verify it is up to code to accommodate your attendees. Keep in mind, each space has unique needs. Pool events, for example, require non-slip surfaces, whereas an outdoor evening event needs proper lighting and pathways for your guests to safely maneuver. Now due to COVID, health safety is just as important as the physical. Have masks readily available for those who opt to use them, sanitizing stations, and regular cleaning protocols.

Be Collaborative.

Include your vendors! It’s an opportunity for your residents to get acquainted with those who help contribute to their living experience. It also solidifies your relationship with said vendors, as they feel more integrated with your community beyond a client-consumer level. This face time with your residents gives them the chance to connect with the people they’re serving, gain publicity and potentially demo products they may find of interest to incorporate into the property.

Be Detailed.

While planning the main components of an event is key, there are other important details aside from time, place, food, drink, and theme. Ensuring quick and easy routes for emergency vehicles to enter, for example, is one of those very important factors to weigh in. As is planning for accessible food & beverage set up, cleaning supplies in case there is an accident, and making sure your special needs guests are accommodated for – something you should ask about when you send out your invitations. And if your event is outdoors, account for a rainy day with a backup date if weather conditions turn out unfavorable.

Be Proactive.

It takes one good event, one unforgettable experience to get your residents raving about your community to family, friends, and coworkers. Living accommodations aside, people want to make a home in a place that truly feels like home. The emotional aspect of purchasing a residence plays a larger role than people realize. An association with board members who aim to curate that kind of experience for their owners will attract even more owners through word of mouth.