(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The City of Colorado Springs is setting on a mission this holiday season to address loneliness.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 66% of people experience loneliness during the holidays. To address it, the City is asking community members to join in this holiday season to bring people together with the 100 Holiday Gatherings campaign.

“The holidays are a great time to celebrate the season and to connect with neighbors,” said Joe Hollmann, marketing and engagement manager for the City. “For many, the holidays amplify loneliness, sadness, and stress, and we invite Colorado Springs residents to plan and register their holiday gathering so we can continue to build a movement of neighboring in Colorado Springs. By connecting with neighbors through a holiday gathering, you are building a social support system in your neighborhood. Whether it’s a cookie exchange in the kitchen or hot cocoa on the driveway, there are a variety of ways to host a gathering.” 

To host a gathering. the city recommends three steps:

Pick the date

Weekends are great for bigger gatherings, while weekdays and weekend lunches work well for small get-togethers.

Choose and plan a gathering

Events like hot cocoa gatherings, community caroling, winter clothing drives, and more can work and count as gatherings.

Invite your neighbors and register your gathering

Invite your neighbors by knocking on their door or posting your gathering on social media outlets like Nextdoor, Facebook, or ZonZon.

The 100 Holiday Gatherings initiative will run through the end of 2024. To register your event, click the link above.