Community Spirit Rising in Richland County
Richland County, once bursting with vibrant businesses and a bustling family atmosphere, has seen some changes over the years. Known widely as the International Corridor, Decker Boulevard once served as a lively hub, filled with popular eateries like Olive Garden, Red Lobster, and the beloved Rush’s, where you could grab a bite to eat or enjoy a night out with family. Sadly, many of these establishments have closed their doors, leaving behind a quieter, more isolated atmosphere.
As the community navigates a period of transition, residents have a palpable sense of disconnect. They are aware that things have changed, but the feeling is that their concerns have gone unheard. For many, including families in nearby neighborhoods like Arcadia Lakes and Forest Acres, the reasons for these feelings are all too clear: roads in need of repair, litter-strewn corners, and an unsettling rise in gunfire, making children feel unsafe walking home from school.
Bridging the Gap
Recognizing the need for change, a local nonprofit organization called Serve and Connect has taken on the ambitious task of building bridges between neighbors. Founded by Kassy Alia Ray in response to personal tragedy, this initiative strives to encourage conversations within the community and foster a more connected and secure environment.
It’s all about connection—neighbors supporting one another in addressing common concerns. In efforts like the Decker Collective, the aim is to bring residents of all backgrounds together to discuss issues that affect them and to work collectively towards solutions. It’s an important step not only for those who live just north of Decker Boulevard but also for the entire surrounding area since we are all connected in some way.
A Closer Look at Community Safety
As mayor of Arcadia Lakes, the commitment to improving community relations is profound. Despite the overall low crime rate in Arcadia Lakes—only a fraud case reported in the last year—the activities just across Decker Boulevard can impact life here. Residents hear gunfire in the distance, and while it may not originate from their neighborhoods, it’s carried on the winds of concern. And it’s important to remember: what impacts one side affects the other.
The need to address excessive vehicle noise, speeding, and an accumulation of trash stretches across community lines. It’s not just about safety; it’s about creating spaces where children can thrive in secure environments, where people can go for walks without fear of what they might encounter. In the end, if children across Decker Boulevard can’t find a safe place to play and learn, then neither can those who live nearby.
Simple Steps Towards Solutions
Change may seem daunting, yet the truth is it often begins with simple actions. Engaging in sports with local high schools, hosting community events to gather residents, and promoting art initiatives can usher in a fresh wave of enthusiasm in the area. Opportunities for conversations over a cup of coffee can lead to real change, breaking down the barriers that have kept neighbors apart.
The approach here is grassroots, focusing on hearing the voices of residents and working towards solutions tailored to their concerns. Collaboration between churches, the sheriff’s department, local law enforcement, and the school district illustrates just how interconnected the community spirit can be when everyone is on board.
Join the Movement
The Decker Collective represents a chance for all residents to come together to foster safety, friendliness, and well-being. Whether it’s to reduce crime, protect property values, or simply cultivate a sense of belonging, the work ahead can pave the way for a brighter community. More than just initiatives, it’s a movement—one where every voice counts, every concern matters, and together, the residents of Richland County can reclaim the vibrancy of their neighborhoods.
Unity is the call to action, so now is the time to rally together, turn those conversations into solutions, and create an inviting, thriving environment for all. In Richland County, the spirit of community is alive and waiting to grow.
