Do you feel disconnected from your community? It's a common problem and one that many people feel has gotten worse over the last few decades. There are lots of potential reasons for this, ranging from the types of communities people live in to how the internet has changed how we interact with each other. If you feel like you could be more connected to your community, you don't have to put up with the status quo. You can take a stand and make a move to connect with and be more supportive of your local community if you want to.

Get Involved with Neighborhood Groups

Certain neighborhood groups can be the perfect place to start if you want to be more involved with your local community. This could include things like your homeowners' association, neighborhood watch, or other community groups that are designed for organizing local matters. Some groups might exist to help keep the neighborhood in good shape, others are more social and have been created to plan events or connect people within the area. Joining these groups can be a great way to be more involved with your neighbors and keep up with what's happening on your street.

Befriend Local People

Becoming casual acquaintances with your neighbors is a good first step to getting to know some people. But actually becoming friends with people and spending time with them can be a little more difficult. Making friends as an adult is sometimes tough, but having potential friends in close proximity can make it easier. One of the things you might consider is befriending people who might need some extra company and support. For example, perhaps you have elderly neighbors who would love someone to drop by for a chat once in a while. You can connect with others while also doing a good deed.

Image from Pexels - CC0 License

Support a Local Charity

There are all kinds of charities you can support that address a range of causes. Some are huge national or even multi-national organizations, while some are smaller and more local. Choosing to support a local charity can be a great way to invest in the growth and future of your community. You could make a non-profit donation to an organization that does good things within your community. Or you could look for opportunities to fundraise or maybe to volunteer. Find charities local to you and ask them about how you can help.

Shop at Local Businesses

Supporting local businesses is another excellent way to be more involved with your local community. If you don't support local business, you can find that large corporations take over. Sometimes this can benefit you, but there can be drawbacks too. Local businesses are often independent or might be smaller chains, and they can serve the community in unique and interesting ways. Instead of having another store that's just like all the others, you could benefit from one that supports local makers or supports local charities.

Support your local community by being more involved at different levels. You can become a part of the community by making yourself part of it.