In 2009, in the London and Middlesex Health Region, 70.1% of the population 12 years and older, reported a strong or somewhat strong sense of community belonging (the provincial average was 67.1% and the national average was 65.4%). (Canadian Community Health Survey, Statistics Canada)
When a feasibility study for Fanshawe Pioneer Village revealed that the next generation of philanthropists and volunteers wasn’t stepping up, London Community Foundation responded with action: Create amini-MBA in philanthropy that teaches people how to give.
Take action on campus or in the community -- explore the many opportunities provided at Western!
Take action on campus and in the community. Explore the many opportunities provided at Western!
I had lived in London for 25 years before it felt like home. I'm not a networker by nature so breaking in at a lot of events was though for me. My breakthrough came when I jumped on Twitter and met some really amazing people. Within a year I was helping to organize a number of events in the city. Facebook is great way to keep in touch with people you know but Twitter is a great way to find new local folks.
Further to Martha's contribution, the Forest City Sport & Social Club welcomes all who want to get involved! FCSSC offers recreational sports, tournaments, outdoor adventures and social events for adults so there is something for everyone. Many of our members join because they want to meet new people in London and through those people they get connected to other fun, great people, events and initiatives that are happening in our community. Please join us! http://fcssc.ca/
Mentor! Getting involved in a community can be an exciting and overwhelming process. For those with experience and knowledge of the many opportunities in our city I encourage you to connect with the next generation of leaders and donors and mentor leadership and engagement!
Pay it forward -- Giving back to the community that we all share goes foward in others doing the same. If we all take a small step, together big things can happen. Think about what things matter to you and you will be amazed at how many others will want to help.
Welcome new Londoners by spending time with them, opening doors, creating connections and involving them in things you are involved in. London is a strong volunteer community so also be generous in opening doors to organizations that can benefit from the talents of new comers. We are a city that works on networking so if someone has ever helped you by opening doors, pay it forward and offer the same kindness to others. If this is a mass commitment on the part of our community, imagine the engagement and connections we'll help create.
Here's another resource for young/emerging talent to get involved in our community ~ professionally, socially and culturally ~ http://www.emergingleaders.ca/starthere/.
Be interactive -- Get involved and stay involved with people in your community and know what’s happening around you. Get to know your neighbours. What concerns do your friends and community members have? The more you know about your community and the people around you, the more successful everyone will be.
Volunteer -- Strengthen your sense of belonging by getting involved in your community. Volunteer, involve others, or make a donation to a cause you care about. Visit Pillar.ca for a comprehensive listing of volunteer opportunities.
Join a social club -- Social clubs are a great way to find people who have similar interests. Clubs often host special events, weekend trips and have regular meetings. Visit the City of London Parks and Recreation Programs to locate a club or social group near you.
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