Sanford celebrates Neighboring Week at Salt Spring

Midland came together the last week of September to celebrate Neighboring Week. From an interactive Neighbor Chase to Floats with Goats, the community showed up in force to build a sense of belonging across Midland County. Even the gloomy weather couldn't dampen the spirits of Sanford's residents as they gathered to enjoy the company of neighbors and indulge in half-off ice cream.

Misty BarronSanford residents lined up to enjoy half-off cones at Salt Spring
Festivities at Salt Spring Ice Cream

“It’s good to see so many people out,” says Sanford Village President Dolores Porte. Some were worried the weather might keep residents from joining. However, the village showed its “Sanford Strong” spirit by lining the street to attend an ice cream social hosted by Salt Spring Ice Cream at 319 W. Saginaw Road.

Guests were invited to enjoy their ice cream cones on the outdoor patio, where local musicians entertained the crowd. In the back, a lively game of cornhole got underway, adding to the festive atmosphere. Meanwhile, lucky attendees walked away with door prizes, and kids expressed their creativity by drawing on the sidewalk with chalk supplied by the ice cream shop.

Red Oak participated in the year's festivities by offering a taco special on Wednesday and pasta on Tuesday night. Both nights also included complimentary non-alcoholic drinks for diners.Misty BarronRed Oak Lounge offered Neighboring Week specials. Melissa Ayotte, owner.

“We’re going to make it bigger next year,” says Porte. She has ideas for working with Cozy Cats Cafe and other local businesses to expand Neighboring Week and get others involved. This year, Porte got involved herself by donating $100 to the local mobile home park. In turn, the owner used it to make dinner for park residents. 

Sanford's ongoing spirit of giving

Paying it forward and giving back to the community isn’t something Sanford residents only celebrate once a year. The community has shown remarkable strength and resilience over the years. In May 2020, the area was devastated by catastrophic flooding caused by the failure of the Edenville and Sanford dams. Homes were destroyed, businesses were uprooted, and the town's landscape was dramatically altered. 

Volunteers, local groups, and nearby communities worked together to help and provide resources. They fixed buildings and strengthened the connections among residents, showing what it truly means to “love thy neighbor”.

About Midland County Neighboring Week

Midland County Neighboring Week, hosted annually by the Midland Area Cultural Awareness Coalition, is dedicated to fulfilling the vision of making Midland an inclusive and thriving community. The event brings together organizations, neighborhoods, and businesses for activities that foster connection, friendship, and community celebration.

Misty BarronSanford residents enjoy Neighboring Week celebrationsRooted in the principle of “loving thy neighbor,” the event began in 2011 with the goal of building community across religious lines. Since then, it has expanded into a broader celebration of neighborliness. Open to all, participation can range from attending events to organizing activities or simply practicing kindness in everyday life.

The week focuses on deliberate acts of generosity, reinforcing the idea that everyone in Midland deserves a sense of belonging. As it kicks off Global Diversity Month, Neighboring Week reflects Midland’s commitment to fostering a welcoming community, showcasing how engagement contributes to overall well-being and makes the county a special place to live.

The Cultural Awareness Coalition is committed to creating a community where everyone has the chance to thrive. Cultural awareness means being mindful and understanding the full way of life of different groups, including their beliefs, actions, expressions, systems, attitudes, and emotions.

With the support of the Midland Area Community Foundation, the coalition's efforts to open pathways to greater understanding and help create an inclusive environment in Midland County, where all individuals feel accepted, included, and a true sense of belonging.

If you are interested in participating in Neighboring Week next year, please contact (989) 839-9661 or email info@midlandfoundation.org. Midland County residents can apply online for grants up to $100.These will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to those who qualify, until all funds have been distributed.