Simone Lawson
The term community is commonly used to describe specific social groups. It is a social unit or group of people with shared characteristics such as place, culture, religion, values, or identity. Communities are held together by connections and civic infrastructure, which serve as bridges and move them forward. They are built on shared identity, transparency, and professionalism, with members coming together to feel safe, recharge, and express themselves. Collaboration is crucial for communities to overcome challenges and achieve progress. While the concept of community has evolved with societal changes, its core remains the same: people coming together with a shared vision and sense of belonging.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Shared location | Positive feelings |
| Shared interests | Togetherness |
| Shared beliefs | Pride |
| Shared values | Belonging |
| Shared norms | Solidarity |
| Shared customs | Homeliness |
| Shared identity | Inclusivity |
| Shared challenges | Collaboration |
| Shared goals | Support |
| Shared story | Respect |
| Shared vision | Trust |
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What You'll Learn
A shared story, identity, and place
A community is a social unit or group of people with a shared socially significant characteristic, such as a set of norms, culture, religion, values, customs, or identity. A community is more than the sum of its physical infrastructure; it is the connections among its residents, their involvement in local issues, and their collective efforts to improve their society.
Enduring attachment to particular places and people is a key characteristic of customary and tribal communities, where the land is fundamental to identity. For example, a community may be formed around a shared interest in preserving and caring for the environment. This shared story becomes a part of their identity, and they see the world through the lens of this shared narrative. They may participate in shared events and cultural activities that reinforce this story and build connections with others who share their passion.
Additionally, a community can be defined by a shared identity, which may include common values, norms, mindsets, viewpoints, ideologies, beliefs, and visions. This shared identity fosters a sense of belonging and pride among community members. It shapes their understanding of social norms and expectations, such as what it means to be a good neighbor. This shared identity also creates an "in group" dynamic, distinguishing those who are part of the community from those who are not.
The concept of "community" often carries positive connotations of mutual well-being, happiness, and togetherness. It evokes a sense of solidarity and homeliness. However, it is important to recognize that communities can also form around negative shared experiences or challenges, such as support communities for people facing similar struggles.
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Social interaction and collaboration
Social interaction in communities has historically been influenced by physical distance, with small village settlements or spatial subdivisions of cities forming social communities. Today, the rise of online communities has enabled people to connect and interact virtually, without necessarily meeting in person. These virtual communities are often based on shared interests or passions, such as online forums or social media groups.
Face-to-face social interaction still plays a crucial role in community building, especially in residential communities or communities of proximity. People living in the same building, estate, or neighbourhood tend to form stronger connections when they interact regularly and develop a sense of fellowship. This can be facilitated by shared physical locations, such as community centres, parks, or places of worship, where people can gather and engage in social activities.
Community collaboration is evident in volunteer communities, where people work together for a common goal, such as homeless shelters or environmental initiatives. Support communities, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, also exemplify collaboration as members band together to overcome shared challenges and create a community of care.
Additionally, communities can collaborate to address local issues and bring about positive change. For example, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, the Spartanburg Academic Movement used data-driven processes to improve reading proficiency. This collaborative effort strengthened the community by enhancing educational opportunities for its members.
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Common interests and values
A community is a group of people who share a common interest or passion. This could be a shared interest in a particular sport, hobby, or activity, such as a book club or a football team. It could also be a shared passion for a particular cause or belief system, such as a political or religious group.
Values are an important aspect of what holds a community together. Shared values, norms, and beliefs create a sense of unity and common purpose within a community. They provide a framework for understanding and interacting with one another and can be a source of strength and support in times of challenge or crisis. For example, a community may share values of mutual respect, compassion, and support, which can foster a sense of trust and cooperation among members.
Additionally, communities are often defined by their shared identity and sense of belonging. Members of a community may feel a strong connection to one another and to the group as a whole, which can be a powerful source of support and encouragement. This sense of belonging can be enhanced by shared experiences, traditions, or history that are unique to the community.
Communities can also be defined by their shared physical location or proximity to one another. This could be a neighbourhood, village, or town, or even a particular building or complex. Sharing a common space can foster a sense of community and encourage interaction and collaboration among members.
In today's world, online communities are also prevalent, allowing people to connect and come together in virtual spaces based on shared interests, values, or identities. These communities can provide a sense of belonging and support, even if members are geographically dispersed.
Overall, common interests and values play a crucial role in defining and holding a community together. They provide a sense of shared purpose, identity, and belonging that can foster collaboration, support, and a sense of unity among members.
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Support and care for one another
The concept of "community" often has a positive semantic connotation, evoking a sense of togetherness, solidarity, and mutual well-being. Communities are held together by a shared story or common characteristics such as place, culture, religion, values, customs, or identity. Support and care for one another are essential aspects that bind a community together.
Support communities are formed around a shared challenge, where individuals unite to create a community of care. For example, Alcoholics Anonymous is a well-known support community where members facing similar struggles provide mutual aid and encouragement. In times of crisis or shared difficulties, a sense of community can emerge organically, as seen during natural disasters or global pandemics. People come together, offering assistance and emotional support to one another, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity.
Community members often share values, norms, mindsets, and beliefs, which provide a framework for mutual understanding and empathy. This shared value system guides their interactions and promotes a sense of belonging. For instance, religious communities are bound by a shared belief system, and their faith provides a basis for mutual support and care. They may organize prayer groups, offer spiritual guidance, and provide assistance to those in need within their community.
Another example is volunteer communities, such as the RSPCA or homeless shelters, where individuals unite to work towards the greater good. They provide support and care by volunteering their time and skills to help those in need, whether it's rescuing animals or offering shelter and assistance to the homeless. These communities are held together by a shared passion for making a positive impact and a desire to support those who need it.
In addition to emotional and spiritual support, communities also provide practical care for one another. For instance, residential communities for seniors or people with disabilities offer a range of support services to their residents. This may include assistance with daily living activities, access to healthcare services, and social activities that promote well-being and reduce isolation. These communities are designed to foster independence while providing the necessary support and care tailored to the specific needs of their residents.
Overall, the act of supporting and caring for one another is a cornerstone of community. It is through these acts of mutual aid, empathy, and shared experiences that communities are strengthened and individuals find a sense of belonging and connection.
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Civic infrastructure and investments
Social Connections
Social interaction and relationships are key components of community building. People are naturally drawn to those with shared interests, passions, beliefs, or challenges. These shared characteristics form the basis of social connections and foster a sense of belonging and togetherness.
Involvement in Local Elections
Participating in local elections and government is another way to strengthen community bonds. When community members engage in the democratic process, they contribute to decision-making that directly impacts their lives and surroundings. This involvement ensures that the community's needs and priorities are addressed, fostering a sense of collective responsibility and ownership.
Nonprofit Organisations
Nonprofit organisations play a crucial role in community building by addressing social issues, providing services, and promoting positive change. These organisations often fill gaps left by government institutions, offering support and resources to those in need. Their work inspires and engages community members, encouraging volunteerism and a sense of shared purpose.
Investments in Civic Infrastructure
Investments in civic infrastructure, such as expanding internet access, improving education, and addressing inequities, have exponential returns. These investments connect people, strengthen neighbourhoods, foster economic development, and create a more resilient and inclusive community. For example, providing virtual learning opportunities for children in Wisconsin during the suspension of in-person instruction.
Community Action and Collaboration
Community building is a deliberate process that requires action and collaboration. Organisations like StriveTogether work with communities to create lasting change. They bring partners together, share best practices, and measure progress through milestones shaped by local contexts. By collaborating and learning from one another, communities can overcome complex challenges in public health, education, and the economy.
In summary, civic infrastructure and investments are the glue that holds a community together. They foster social connections, encourage participation in local governance, inspire volunteerism, and address societal issues. By investing in civic infrastructure, communities become stronger, more connected, and better equipped to face challenges and crises.
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Frequently asked questions
A community is a group of people with a shared socially significant characteristic such as place, set of norms, culture, religion, values, customs, or identity. Communities may share a sense of place situated in a given geographical area or in a virtual space.
The types of communities vary slightly depending on the field of study, but they can be categorised as:
- Interest-based communities: People who share the same interests or passions.
- Place-based communities: People who are brought together by proximity to each other, such as a retirement village or a university campus.
- Support communities: People who band together based on a shared challenge, whether past or present, to create a community of care.
- Brand communities: Customers who come together to share their experiences, encourage others to purchase and engage, and emulate the brand's values.
- Volunteer communities: A group of people who work together for the greater good, such as RSPCA and homeless shelters.
A community is held together by the connections among its residents, involvement with local elections, the work of nonprofit organisations, and the public service of people that give meaning to the buildings they live and work in. Civic infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, also plays a role in connecting people, institutions, and systems within a community.
