Get Involved: It All Starts with Your Community

Community is All Around Us

Often times when we hear, "get involved in your local community" it can seem unclear, ambiguous and daunting for a person. In a digital age where most of us are connected by the internet and our mobile devices, the art of getting out there physically is almost a lost art form... but it doesn't have to be. The truth is, your local community is where it all starts.

This doesn't have to be rocket science, and chances are you are already doing something. Community action starts small... and the good news is that your local ares is where it makes most impact.

We have put together a list of ideas to get you started:

• Get to know your neighbors, go on walks together, make meals together - learn eachothers' stories.

  
  

• Visit your local library, join a book club.

  
  

• Check in with your community parks and recreation department - depending on your area there are public adult recreation teams, dance classes, public events and more.

  
  

• Sign up to volunteer about a cause that you are passionate about - there are no shortage of needs out there and there is always room for volunteering, and it feels good to give back.

  
  

• Get active in your local chamber of commerce - learn what the businesses are up to in your community, what's moving in...etc.

  
  

• Visit your local community center - there are plenty of programs here that one can meet others and find something to do that may be interesting.

• Attend your local city council meeting - you can Google the area that you live and chances are there is a meeting on a regular cadence that anyone can attend, either physically or virtually. Learn about what causes your fellow citizens find important, what the city council is voting on in your area and meet more of the people that live near you.

  
  

• Reach out to the senior centers or retirement communities in your area - they are usually always open for volunteering of some sort and they really enjoy visitors.

These are just a few ideas, there are thousands of ways that you can get more involved in your community. Start small, meet people and do something. The strength of a community are the people that make it, and the diversity within our stories and lives. There is always opportunity to give back, meet new people, connect deeper and make a positive impact - its a win-win for all.

Happy community building, you are already doing great!