The core of human well-being is community. Participating in community activities promotes a feeling of purpose and unity. Many of our conservation initiatives have been shaped by the importance of shared responsibility for the environment and group action placed by Indigenous communities. Participating in volunteering opportunities not only improves interpersonal relationships but also enhances group well-being.
Studies have shown strong evidence of the correlation between a strong sense of community belonging and greater self-perceived mental and physical health. Using data from 2014 and 2016 from the Survey of the Health of Wisconsin, one study found that those with a negative sense of community had significantly higher odds of reporting feelings of depression and anxiety. A strong tie to one’s community can lead to a more enriched, fulfilling life.
Here are a few easy things you can do to participate in community activities:
- Join a local community clean-up
- Volunteer at an animal shelter
- Participate in conservation projects
- Support local businesses and initiatives
- Engage in social services like youth or senior citizen activities
- Organize or host community gatherings
- Give back to your community
Engaging in community activities helps foster a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of isolation. When you contribute to your community, you build stronger relationships, develop a support network, and create a positive impact on the lives of others. This sense of purpose and interconnectedness can significantly enhance your overall well-being, making you feel more connected, valued, and fulfilled.
We at OneNature understand and amplify the importance of community togetherness. A well-being approach to conservation is the foundation of our organization. Many wildlife conservation projects emphasize an economic approach. This strategy has occasionally conflicted with long-standing community beliefs. It threatens to potentially jeopardize the bond with nature and animals that has preserved certain species and areas healthy for many generations. We believe that without deeply understanding and supporting community wellbeing, conservation projects will fail to reverse the extinction crisis, secure environmental sustainability, and support social justice and human thriving in communities stewarding the world’s remaining wildlife and wild places.
Image by Rubén Urrutia via Pexels.