VoisinMalin Empowering the residents of sensitive neighborhoods

Empowering residents of sensitive neighborhoods to be more active in their own lives

In sensitive neighborhoods, complicated situations, disaffection with many services and lack of community often lead to feelings of rejection, mistrust and isolation. Many people do not know about or do not use existing services and are unaware of opportunities to improve their daily lives. They feel left out of projects to change their neighborhood. That is why VoisinMalin was created. Deep awareness of the issues affecting people’s everyday lives allows the association to empower them.

Relying on local residents to rebuild social ties

VoisinMalin relies on identified resources in sensitive neighborhoods to carry out information campaigns. The association hires people called Voisins Malins ("Smart Neighbors") who know their communities well and have good relationship and listening skills. Their permanent-contract positions give them recognition in their communities. The Voisins Malins reach out to local residents, mainly by going door-to-door. They work in specific areas matching the residents’ practical needs and requests. To ensure success, the Voisins Malins partner with local players. Many partnerships with companies, local authorities and public bodies ensure sustainability and information quality.

Voisinmalin, an association that’s gaining ground

Today, over a hundred Voisins Malins work in priority towns such as Grigny and Villiers-le-Bel. Faced with the urgent need to take action in sensitive communities, the Bettencourt Schueller Foundation supports VoisinMalin, convinced it’s on the right track. Dialogue and interaction will succeed in fostering new neighborhood dynamics. VoisinMalin is one of the missing links to connect residents to each other and their communities, thereby restoring social ties. The foundation backs local development and the association to help it achieve its goals.