Get friendly with the 3rd edition of the Say Hi to a Stranger Weekend from August 21-23, 2015. Vancouver businesses, artists, and volunteer street teams will create socially interactive environments to encourage residents to say hello to one another and use the hashtag #sayhitoastranger on social media. This movement was borne out of the reputation of our city being a difficult place to make friends.
Participating businesses will provide free food, drinks, gifts, or other promotions to people who engage with street teams and receive a button, or who use the code phrase “say hi to a stranger” in person. This edition will introduce a new element of artists and street performers to the weekend. Confirmed Community Partners include Urban Digs Farm, 4 Angels Beauty Care, Home on the Range Organics, Magpie Vancouver, and Second Nature Home Boutique.
Frances Chen, Assistant Professor of Psychology at the University of British Columbia, says, “There’s so much that can be gained from striking up a conversation with a stranger – new connections and a deeper sense of belonging in our community, greater understanding of people from different backgrounds and walks of life, and even health benefits.” She continues: “The Say Hi to a Stranger campaign has the potential to inspire people to go beyond simply co-existing with other residents and instead build a sense of community with them.”
dates: Friday to Sunday, August 21, 22, 23, 2015
Visit www.sayhitoastranger.com for a schedule of street team locations and list of Community Partners.
Crowdfunding campaign link: www.dana.io/sayhitoastranger
Sponsoring business include Conscious Public Relations Inc., Daoutova Creative Group, and Storybubble Media.
