Some local residents are inviting others to join a recently formed group that has as its top priority the strengthening of community relationships.

The group is called Enliven Project. It started about a year when neighbors gathered for dinner, according to one of the leaders, Matt Robuck. According to Robuck, they concluded that "what (they) could use more of here is community."

Since then, the group has held at least three of its signature relaxed, potluck gatherings. Robuck said organizers have allowed the group to grow "organically," but are now making it even more public.

The next Enliven Project gathering is set for 7 p.m. Oct. 17 at Russel Brown’s home, located at 1031 Turner St. Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP online at http://enlivenproject.co/

And the invitation is not just limited to residents. Robuck encouraged those who "work, drive through, or play (in Rockdale County)," and care about the community to come out to the gatherings.

"Our town is really our life," Robuck said. "I think it’s vital that we’re involved in our community. It really enriches our lives if our community is tighter."

Robuck gave assurance that Enliven Project has no political, religious or business affiliation, so there will not be any promoting going on at the gatherings.

"What we really are is about building community," Robuck said. "Essentially, we exist simply to gather the community and foster ideas and actions through those gatherings."

At each gathering, organizers set up a board for participants to write down ideas throughout the evening. Robuck said a recent example of those ideas was the creation of a community garden.

"We live here. A lot of us work here. Some of us raise our children here," Robuck said. "It’s really just a way to empower our community to take action."

Robuck said the last gathering lasted about a couple of hours, but people are free to come and go as they choose.

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/EnlivenProjectConyers.