Every month we like to gather at a neighbor's house for a potluck meal. It's a great way to meet new friends and learn about the neighborhood.

A proven success, historic Old Southwest has held a monthly social gathering of neighbors called Food with Friends. Hosted with a different theme and household; neighbors look forward to this event. It began in April of 2006 by two residents with the intention of bringing the whole neighborhood together as a way to get to know one another, establish lasting friendships, as well as a perfect opportunity to network. The Food with Friends event was created to incorporate the whole community, like many people had growing up. The premise is very simple, a resident offers to open up their home and provides the paper products needed such as plates, napkins, cups and cutlery. In addition, a theme is chosen for the event. Everyone else that attends brings either an appetizer, entrée, side-dish OR dessert and their favorite beverage. The food is shared among all of those that attend. The themes have varied everything from Italian and American to Comfort foods and Tapas. The Food with Friends event garnered 2nd place in the nation for Best Neighborhood of the Year in 2008 at NUSA (Neighborhoods USA) www.nusa.org.