Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How does a cafécito differ from a meeting of a neighborhood association or HOA?
A. Well, cafécitos are meant to be fun. Seriously. Neighborhood associations and home owners’ associations are organizations with obligations and agendas. They meet to do business, and discussions frequently center on problems. Cafécitos are essentially informal social events designed to let neighbors get to know each other. It’s not uncommon for a more organized group, such as a neighborhood watch, to grow out of an idea shared by several guests at a cafécito.
Q. When is the best time to schedule a cafécito?
A. A convenient time depends on your particular neighbors. If many families have young children, meetings after work can interfere with dinnertime, and that can be a challenge unless dinner will be served at the meeting. If the kids are older and into organized sports, weekend meetings might conflict with scheduled games or practice time. The best way to figure out what works is to ask – just check in with neighbors as you see them in their yards or driveways or the local hardware store.
Q. What if I can’t hold the cafécito at my house?
A. The important criteria for the place are comfort and convenience, at your house or someone else’s or in a public place. We all like to be welcomed into someone’s home, but if that’s not possible look for a space that is not too large for the group and offers reasonably comfortable seating. Be sure to find out if you’re allowed to serve food or play music or if there are electrical outlets for projectors or computers or other equipment you may want to use. If the site you choose is far from where some neighbors live, see if nearby public transportation runs as late as your meeting will last. Encourage car pooling.
Q. Is it OK to bring the kids to the cafécito?
A. Absolutely. Youth have a lot to contribute to a thriving neighborhood. But if you invite them, be sure they get a chance to participate. If some families have young children, see if you can find someone who would be willing to provide child care at the cafécito so those families can attend without distraction. A different person might assist at the next meeting. Don’t forget to show them a lot of appreciation.
Q. How can PRO help?
A. In addition to giving you money for your cafécito, we’ll attend if you invite us, and even help you facilitate if you like. We can show you an assortment of ice breakers and a few different ways to capture the main points of discussion. We would like to spend a few minutes telling your group about PRO. Of course we’ll be happy to be a resource for you without being present as well, with our printed Cafécito Guide, our Website, and conversations with you.
Q. What’s the next step after the cafécito?
A. Next steps are up to you and the group. Many groups decide to keep meeting on a regular basis. Groups who feel they are ready to jump right into a community-building project can apply to PRO Neighborhoods for a small grant (anything between $50 and $5,000). Some request professional assistance through a Planning & Design Service Award, which results in a concept plan, cost estimates, evidence of community engagement, and other elements to support proposals for major funding sources. Whatever your group decides to do, PRO Neighborhoods would like to help. Stay in touch about the ways we can be your partner. |
