Hi. Leanne here.

You know, neighbourhood houses are places in the community that try very hard to ensure that everyone feels welcome. Kindness is at the heart of what we do. And acceptance. We try to take people as they are and provide the opportunities to help everyone feel good about themselves … and connect with others. We focus on assisting people to find their tribe through their interests, and in doing so we also hope to build a stronger neighbourhood.

And what do we mean by a strong neighbourhood? A neighbourhood is a group of odd people (cos we’re all a bit odd right?) who rub along together not because they’re family or because they share the same background or the same goals … but just because they all live in the same general location. Neighbourhoods are strong when they recognise this interdependence and embrace and value both the connectedness and the diversity in their community.

In this context I thought I’d mention the Canadian TV series Schitts Creek, that won so many Emmy Awards this year and has become such a thing.

If you haven’t watched it already, I just thought I’d mention that

1. You really should!

2. You will come to love each character - even though you might think it’s all a bit cringy and hard to watch at first.

This show is made by Daniel Levy (who plays the son) and Eugene Levy who wrote wacky but ultimately endearing and very memorable movies such as ‘Best in Show’ (and plays the dad). Daniel’s sister plays Twyla, the cafe owner … so the cast is a family affair.

It runs for 6 seasons. And over this time the stories, characters and connections really unfold and develop. The storyline is quirky, modern, pointed, funny, kind, gentle and edgy … and I think pretty important viewing for those of us that hope that we are choosing acceptance and kindness in the 21st century.

I took ages to get into it. Then binge watched it. And now I can’t recommend it enough! And … the documentary at the end just caps it off.

You’ll find Schitts Creek on Netflix. I hope you enjoy it too!