It’s true: gone are the days when you could show up on your neighbors doorstep with a fresh batch of brownies or a request for some sugar; rare are the chats with a neighbor over the back fence. Times have changed. And we need to change with them. New times necessitate new methods; and the ways one gets to know neighbors is no exception. With a pinch of courage and a small dose of creativity, you might not be ready to swap keys with your new neighbors, but budding relations you will have.

Here are some simple ways to get to know those around you:

• Get to know your neighbors with a bang: throw a party. City or suburb, there’s hardly a bigger attraction than free alcohol and snacks. You’ll have to muster up the courage to go door-to-door and personally invite all your neighbors: a blind invitation might make them wonder your true intentions for luring them into your pad--a la Jeffrey Dahmer. If you have a yard you can barbecue, or if not, make sure you supply plenty of cupcakes and brownies and all the other stuff that neighbors like to share.

• Get on your green thumbs! Community gardens are great ways to beautify a landscape and fortify newfound friendships. We know someone who planted a tree with a new neighbor; now they get together regularly to water it. If you like someone’s garden, stop by and mention it, and don’t hesitate to offer help--who could turn that down! For lawn and garden ideas, click here.

• Live in the suburbs and commute for work? Offer to carpool. It could be that you and some of your neighbors are taking the same route to work every day, alone. Help out the environment, your wallets, and build a sense of community, all at the same time!

• Pets can really bring people together. Make a section of a nearby park into an informal dog-run. Or just walk your dogs together. Put up signs in your local grocery store suggesting a time and place for the pooch party, and don’t forget to bring the doggie treats!

• Have a group garage sale! For apartment dwellers, it’s called a stoop sale. Whatever you call it, they’re great ways to clear out your closets, make a little cash, and become acqainted with nearby folk. If you’ve never had one before, click here for some helpful tips.