How to Get Engaged with Your Community

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How to Get Engaged with Your Community

Getting involved in your community looks different for everyone, whether it's going to a local sports league game, volunteering at your local library, or helping out at your local food bank. Engaging with your community can help you develop a sense of belonging, connect with local resources, help you develop and maintain relationships, grow as a person, and so much more. 

How Can I Engage with My Local Community?

You can get involved with your community in a variety of ways, some of which include:  

  • Volunteering
    • There are many places in your community where you can volunteer your time! Some of these include libraries, churches, housing shelters, food banks, animal shelters, the local school district, nursing homes, and your community art centers. Check out for more ideas: 10 Volunteer Opportunities In Your Community 
       
  • Visit a local farmer’s market
    • Buying food that comes from people in your local community can connect you with those living in the area! It’s a great place to spark conversation while checking out what types of food you can shop for locally.
       
  • Attend a local festival
    • Many communities have annual festivals that take place in the summer and early fall. Attending one of your community's local festivals is a great way to connect with people in the area.
       
  • Start or join a local club
    • If you have a sport, hobby, or interest you like to partake in, consider checking out the clubs in your area. Starting or joining a club is a great way to meet others in your community.

Check out the resource section to find volunteer opportunities in your region, as well as more ways to connect with your community!

Why Should I Get Involved with My Local Community?

There are lots of reasons to get involved in your community, some of which include:

  • To gain a sense of belonging
    • Engaging with your community can provide you with a sense of belonging by connecting you with people from all avenues of life.
       
  • To build a support system
    • When immersing yourself into your community, you may come across people who you want to develop a permanent connection with. Getting involved with your community may be a great way to build a system of support for yourself. 
       
  • To connect with local resources
    • Getting involved in your local community may help you gain information about what resources your area has to offer. A few examples are food banks, local clothing resources, and housing resources.
       
  • To create opportunities
    • Immersing yourself in your community may open doors for other opportunities. Whether it be friendship, employment, resources, etc.
       
  • To grow
    • Getting involved with your community may provide you with the opportunity to gain new perspectives. You may come into contact with people who have different experiences, beliefs, knowledge, and so much more. Gaining this insight not only provides you with the opportunity to learn and grow, but it may allow you the opportunity to share your perspectives as well. 
       
  • To find your passion
    • Volunteering in your community may give you the opportunity to discover and explore any passions that develop while engaging with your community. For example, if you choose to volunteer at your local food bank or shelter you may discover you have a passion for human services.
       

Your community needs people with your unique thoughts and perspective!
 

Regional Volunteer Resources: 
 
Resources:
About the Author:

Kat works in healthcare and advocacy. As a former youth with lived experience, one of her biggest goals is to uplift youth voices within the child welfare system and influence policy to reflect better outcomes for youth in care. Her passions surround everything related to the art of storytelling.