How We Create Community Engagement

  • Southeast Plawkers

    Roanoke Plawkers is a social club that picks up trash in various neighborhoods while walking and talking together from the months of March - October.

    Roanoke Plawkers meetups occur weekly on Tuesdays in Southeast neighborhoods, and happen in other parts of Roanoke city, and in collaboration with community partners. 

  • Public Art Projects

    I Heart SE has successfully mobilized volunteer participation, collaborating with local artists and the Roanoke Arts Commission for several neighborhood mural projects.

    Guided by artists, volunteers help with mural painting. Completed mural projects are celebrated and shared with the greater public. These murals bring people together, create a sense of belonging and beautify the neighborhood.

  • Parades

    I Heart SE organizes parade participation in the Daisy Art Parade in April and the The City of Roanoke Christmas Parade in December. All are welcome to join in and walk with us!

    Daisy Art Parade is  “an intentional community building strategy led by artist organizer Brian Counihan”, that features giant handmade puppets, costumes, instruments and more to celebrate UNESCO World Art Day.

    The City of Roanoke Christmas Parade is part of the annual Dickens of a Christmas celebration in downtown Roanoke.

  • Trunk or Treat

    I Heart SE organizes a popular annual Halloween Trunk or Treat Party that attracts over 500 children and their families. Southeast households, churches, businesses and nonprofits participate as trunk hosts that bring candy, activities and decorations

  • National Night Out

    Southside National Night Out (NNO) is an annual event encouraging community partnerships between first responders, police and neighborhoods. NNO events occur throughout Roanoke. Southside NNO unifies Southeast, Southwest and South Roanoke neighborhoods with first responders. 

  • Community Events

    I Heart SE organizes and promotes a variety of community events in Southeast Roanoke. We partner with nonprofits, local businesses and government agencies to bring neighbors together and enjoy all that Southeast has to offer! Make sure to follow up on social media and subscribe to our newsletter to be informed of local community events!