Get Involved In Your Community

 

It’s no surprise that society at large and our communities have changed over the past few years. Some neighborhoods saw huge influxes of homebuyers during the pandemic which may have shifted the feel of community we once had. There also seems to be a lingering sentiment of distrust, whether born of the pandemic, politics, or simply new faces around the block. We believe it’s time to get back to our communities, get involved, and rebuild the pervasive camaraderie of our neighborhoods. Here are some Wise Tips for getting involved with and improving your community!

 

Be A Great Neighbor

 

The very foundation of a good neighborhood is great neighbors. How can you be a good neighbor? It’s fairly simple – check in, say hi, and offer time to hang out, throw shindigs, or help out with projects and to-dos. If you haven’t met your neighbors yet, bake a small something and stop by for a greeting. You may find a new best friend living right next door. Here are some other ways to be a great neighbor:

 

  • Welcome New Neighbors When They Move In
  • Check In From Time-to-Time
  • Throw Block Party

 

Volunteer

 

One of the best ways to get to know your community is to volunteer. There are a ton of great organizations to help out with that reach into your community. You can also look into local events that need volunteers or workers. You will definitely meet interesting, passionate people. You might even find a new frequent activity to be involved with, new friends, and ultimately a greater connection to your community. Here are some great ways to volunteer:

 

  • Check Out Local Events To Help With
  • Find A Charity To Volunteer With
  • Help Out With Neighborhood Activities & Functions
  • Organize A Drive To Support A Neighbor Or Charity

 

Be A Local

 

It isn’t enough to just live in a neighborhood to be called a Local. You have to act like one! This means supporting your local businesses, community activities, neighbors, schools, and so much more! Sure, shopping at locally owned businesses can cost a little more than hitting up the big retail stores, but you’re doing far more than just checking items off your shopping list. You’re keeping your hard earned money in the neighborhood in which you live. As we build stronger local businesses, more tax dollars stay in town and this supports our schools, roads, and other government funded programs that help our communities. When you’re going out or planning on spending your hard earned money, remember to:

 

  • Shop Local
  • Find Ways To Support Neighbors Who Need Help (GoFundMe, etc.)
  • Donate To Local Organizations
  • Look Into Local Events Supporting Your Community

 

Think Green

 

In Colorado, we’re slowly watching the urbanization of our open spaces and farmlands as more and more people move to our beautiful state. This is happening all over the country, as more people move into cities and suburbs. As we gain more concrete, we lose more green. A great way to get involved in your community is to think green and participate in more environmentally friendly activities. This can include joining a co-operative growing community/farm, joining a community greening event, or participating in neighborhood cleanup days. Here are some great ideas to help you think green and get involved with community:

 

  • Join a Co-Op
  • Find Community Composting Garden (Or start one)
  • Plant a Tree In Your Yard/Garden (Or Help A Neighbor With One)
  • Participate in a Neighborhood Cleanup Day
  • Join A Neighborhood Greening Event

 

Get Involved & Participate

 

If you have the time, motivation, and energy get involved with your local institutions. This could include attending town council meetings, volunteering at school fundraisers or for local politicians, or running for office yourself! Getting involved on these levels gets you to know the larger community beyond your neighborhood. You’ll also know more about the issues going on, and have opportunities to help out. If there are issues near and dear to your heart, attending meetings and speaking with local officials will have your issues be heard. Here are great ways to get involved and participate in your community:

 

  • Attend Town Council Meetings
  • Help Out at School Fundraisers
  • Volunteer for a Local Politician
  • Join a Board or Commission
  • Or Run For Office!

 

Use Your Voice

 

One way to be involved with your community is to use your voice and share your opinions about your neighborhood. This can help have local issues be addressed and conversations started on a larger scale then just between your neighbors. Write a public opinion piece for your local newspaper or magazine. You might be surprised how quickly your topic comes up in idle conversations while out and about. By attending town meetings you can have your voice heard loud and clear, meet people of like mind, and affect the larger community. Some ways to use your voice include:

 

  • Write Public Opinion Piece for the Local Newspaper
  • Write a Blog About Your Town
  • Review Local Restaurants/Cafes
  • Attend Town Meetings
  • Vote – Especially In Local Elections

 

Help Out!

 

That’s right – getting involved can be as simple as helping out. If you see someone in need, offer assistance. When you’re looking for something to do, find ways to help and volunteer. You’ll meet amazing people and share smiles through it all. Here are some ideas for helping out:

 

  • If You See Someone In Need, Help Out.
  • Find Ways To Help Neighbors In Need
  • Start an Organization for People in Need
  • Join a Charity or Organization that Helps Locals In Need

 

We really believe in community. Longmont, Colorado has a great community, with lots of ways to get involved, meet great people, feel connected, and help your community grow. What are some ways you participate or stay active in your neighborhood and community? Share in the comments below.