In our hectic, fast-paced, consumer-driven society, it's common to feel overwhelmed, isolated and alone. Many are re-discovering the healing and empowering role that community can bring to our lives. The sense of belonging we feel when we make the time to take an active role in our communities can give us a deeper sense of meaning and purpose.

Getting involved in local government, or volunteering for the school board, local emergency services, or a local nonprofit providing services to the underprivileged in your community are all powerful ways to begin to feel a greater sense of connection to your local community.

Community building activists believe that community building is an effective way to improve social justice, reduce crime, and promote individual as well as community well-being. Community building events range from simple cooperation and collaboration activities like potluck meals and book clubs to organizing a community watch group, volunteer drives or festivals around a shared interest. It can also include even larger projects like engaging local participants to plant a community peace pole, create a community garden, or work together to build or refurbish a community center, park, playground or other shared community resource.

Community Day is sometimes observed on the 1st Saturday in November, but some communities hold Community Day celebrations in the spring or summer. Community Day is an opportunity to help bring your neighborhood together and celebrate both your diversity and your common bond of shared community. As we build local communities, we are working together to help create a more peaceful, just and sustainable global community.