14 ways to give back to your community this Christmas
Community is one of those words that seems antique in today’s society – with a sharp focus on the individual, rather than the collective.
But the idea of ‘community’ is making a comeback as people cotton-on to its benefits – both emotional, physical and environmental.
Communities can spring up in any area and around any interest. They may be geographically-dependent, online, interest-based, borne of necessity or hardship. At their core, they comprise of people sharing an environment, with a sense of identity, cohesiveness and support.
Why is community so important?
Emotional benefits. Communities provide solidarity, goodwill, sympathy and a social outlet. They cater to the human need for connection and belonging, and have been shown to increase happiness of members by enormous amounts.
Physical and practical benefits. Communities facilitate action. A group of people with a common goal can achieve big things. Not only that, communities maintain the local environment, provide products and services for members, offer help to those in need, provide jobs (and job satisfaction), and have been shown to improve the physical wellbeing of members.
With all these perks, it begs the question – why aren’t we all more engaged with our local communities?
If, like us, you’re eager to become more community-minded this year, we’ve compiled a list of 14 ways you can.
1. Shop locally
Before heading online or to bigger city centres, check out what nearby businesses have to offer. You’ll find more interesting products, and directly support small businesses (i.e. people!) in your community.
2. Promote local businesses
Go the extra mile by recommending loved local businesses to friends, or giving them glowing reviews on Google, Yelp or Facebook. (It makes a world of difference!)
3. Help the less fortunate
Whether it’s volunteering your time at the Salvos, spending time with the elderly or participating in food drives, helping the less fortunate in your area is priceless.
4. Sponsor a local sporting team
If you or your business have the means, support a local sports team (kids teams work well!) and facilitate improved training, equipment and fun! Plus, the positive health impacts are huge.
5. Join your local community garden
Most suburbs have a community plot where you can get your hands dirty, meet like minded plant lovers, and learn lots about horticulture. Growing food to be shared in the community is healthy for you, and the environment.
6. Or make mini edible gardens in front of your house
If you have a bare strip or planter-box out the front, why not populate it with plants? The bees will thank you, as well as passers by on the street.
7. Attend community meetings
Library notice boards are a great place to find groups and meetings going on near you. You might be surprised to learn what people are achieving in your local area – and come away inspired.
8. Check out the farmer’s market
A quick Google search will reveal where to buy fresh, local produce – that hasn’t traveled 15 000 kms to get there. Chatting to farmers and stallholders is also a great way to engage and educate kids about where food comes from.
9. Seek volunteer opportunities
Once again, get on Google! There are so many volunteer positions waiting to be filled – and even though the work is unpaid, you always come away with friendship, satisfaction and inspiration.
10. Teach at a community college
Do you have a special skill or professional expertise? Flex your teaching muscle by passing on your knowledge at a community college.
11. Pick up litter while out walking
Carrying a plastic bag (recycled, of course) is handy for picking up litter you find in your area. Keep your community beautiful!
12. Go to local festivals and events
People put ample time and energy into organising – often free – events for people in their community. Make their efforts count by getting along to as many local events as you can.
13. Write to local MPs
Expressing your views – in writing – to local members of parliament is surprisingly effective. Unless people speak up, many community ‘sticking points’ go unnoticed. Pick up a pen and make your voice heard.
14. Take meals to elderly neighbours
Feeding yourself good, nutritious food gets harder with age. If you have neighbours who are struggling to cook, make a little extra and surprise them with a delicious meal. It can make a big difference.
We hope these community-loving tips have inspired you to get out there and give back! As always, let us know how you go.