In every condo community, there’s a familiar challenge: how do you get more people to care, show up, and get involved beyond just the same handful of board members? The key is shifting residents from passive spectators into active participants — whether that’s showing up at meetings, volunteering on committees, or simply tuning into what’s going on. Just like a football team thrives on fans, coaches, players, and cheerleaders, a healthy association relies on its entire roster. Consistent and accessible communication is essential, as is creating low-pressure opportunities to connect, like casual social events, surveys, or anonymous feedback channels.
Empowering residents to play meaningful roles — like forming special-interest committees or helping new owners with welcome materials — helps strengthen community identity and pride. Even simple steps like maintaining clean common areas and clearly communicating about capital projects can inspire confidence and engagement. When the association runs smoothly, it’s not a sign of apathy, but of a well-coached team hitting its stride. With the right playbook and a little creativity, any association can rally its fans, build a strong bench, and enjoy a winning season.
Read the whole article in our Fall 2025 edition of the Common Interest Magazine and find more editions of the Common Interest Magazine by clicking on the link below.
By Celina Joan Junks, CAI Staff Writer
CAI - Illinois Chapter
The Illinois Chapter of Community Associations Institute serves the educational, business, and networking needs of community associations in the Chicagoland Area. Members include condominium, cooperative, and homeowner...
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Karen Skoric 
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