A volunteer organization, the Neighborhood Association of the Back Bay (NABB) is highly involved in the everyday issues residents care about -- from graffiti, to bike lanes, to new buildings and developments in the neighborhood.

With more than 2,000 members, a 50-member board of directors and a 13-member executive committee, the neighborhood association also takes positions on city decisions and projects, and acts as a voice for Back Bay residents. Members also host a variety of social and charity events, including the Alley Rally where volunteers clean up city streets, and the annual Taste of Back Bay fundraiser every spring.