Creating Community

Creating community is now more important than ever. Having a sense of belonging, being part of something bigger than ourselves and building relationships is what creating community is all about.

When I say community, I do not mean the “friends” and “likes” we get on social media. I’m speaking of the physical community that we all can be a part of where you live. Online relationships are great, that’s how I know many of you, however, we were made for community. I’m no expert, but I’ve heard that depression and suicide are on the rise due to lack of connection with other human beings. God made us for community and we need to foster the relationships we have.

I live in a very small town of 700 people. We have a gas station, several churches, a couple banks, grocery store, hardware store, library, school and even a movie theater. You may be thinking, “Oh how quaint. A little Hallmark style town.” Well, it may seem quintessential and easier to creat community, but I’m here to say, it still requires effort!

So, whether you live in a very small town like me, or your community is the block you live on in a suburb, we need to create community.

The community I want to talk about is more broad spectrum. Yes I have a group of like-minded friends that I see on a weekly basis. I love these people and appreciate the life they share with me. On the other hand, the broader community I want to touch on may include different walks of faith, a wide range of ages and even differing politcal views. So let’s touch on some ways to create community.

Identify common interests or goals:

Find shared interests or goals that can bring people together and create a sense of community around them. Maybe you enjoy reading. Spearhead a monthly book club to gather at your local library. Or maybe you want to walk more, ask the local library or city hall if there is a group that meets to exercise. There is an abundance of groups and activities out there, you just have to find it.

Organize events or activites:

To create community, plan events, workshops, or activities that allow people to come together, interact, and bond over shared experiences. Just like I stated in the above point, you can be the one to start a group or activity. Sure it may take a little more effort, but when you have people who appreciate participating in the event, then it is all worth it.

Create a welcoming environment:

Ensure that your community space is inclusive, welcoming, and safe for all members to participate and engage. We do not all have to have the same ideas or beliefs on something in order to gather. We do however, need to make sure people feel welcome even if they differ.

Provide opportunities for connection:

In creating community, facilitate opportunities for people to connect with each other, whether through online forums, social media groups, or in-person meetups. Yes I know I said I was not talking about online community. This is different though, as we have already established the in person contacts and groups.

Show appreciation and recognition:

Acknowledge and appreciate the contributions of community members to foster a sense of belonging and value within the group. One of the best ways to continue in growing a community is to show praise. Let people know that are valued and that they are appreciated.

My husband and I have also tried to support local growth of the community. Supplying the demand for jobs has been such a neat opportunity for us as my husband has created his own business. He has given many people jobs in our little town, creating a unique work community. We also have an overnight rental guest cottage here that has been another way to connect. Giving ourselves different ways to build community through our entrepreneural endevours has been quite rewarding.

Well friends, I hope you can find community wherever you are. Give yourself opportunities to connect with people in your town, suburb or city. You can also watch my video where I share more on my thoughts here.

Love,

Davee