Imagine living in a place where people greet each other warmly, offer help when needed, and celebrate special moments together. A strong sense of community can change our lives for the better. Whether it’s chatting with neighbours, volunteering, or attending local events, the connections we make help us thrive.
Connection is good for your health
Being part of your community isn’t just nice – it’s good for your health. The 2023 Health Status of the Population Report found that about 52 per cent of Northern Health residents feel a strong sense of belonging, the highest in the province! Feeling connected can lower stress, boost well-being, and help people feel supported.
Community connections in Northwest BC
As Northern Health’s Healthy Communities Lead for the Northwest, I get to visit various communities and meet passionate, caring people. A few months ago, I travelled to some of our more rural and remote communities like Atlin, the Hazeltons, Kitimat, and Stewart. In each space, I saw inspiring examples of people coming together to improve health and happiness for everyone.
Here are a few highlights:
Atlin: Volunteers are the heartbeat of this community. Their dedication makes the Atlin Recreation Centre a hub for fitness classes, senior lunches, and craft fairs.
The Hazeltons: The Wrinch Memorial Foundation’s 16,000 square foot community garden helps people connect through growing food. They also donate fresh produce, like potatoes and carrots, to the local food bank.
Kitimat: The District of Kitimat recently updated its Age-Friendly Action Plan to make the community more welcoming and accessible for older adults.
Stewart: The Stewart Historical Society launched a community StoryWalk® project bringing people together to share history and connect with nature.
Why strong communities matter
The COVID-19 pandemic showed us the power of community resilience – our collective ability to bounce back from tough times. At its height, across Northern BC, people checked in on neighbours, organized virtual meetups, and created support networks for those in need. These acts of kindness brought people closer together and continue to strengthen communities today.
When people work together, communities can better face challenges like extreme weather, public health issues, and economic struggles. Even small gestures, like delivering a meal or sharing a kind word, can make a big difference.
Ideas for building community connections
You don’t need to make big changes to feel more connected. Small actions can lead to lasting relationships. Here are five simple ways to start:
- Go to local events. Farmers’ markets, cultural events, and community festivals are great places to meet people.
- Volunteer your time. Helping others is a great way to make friends and give back. Look for opportunities in your area or apply to volunteer with Northern Health.
- Join a group or class. Book clubs, fitness classes, and hobby groups are fun ways to meet people. Can’t find one you like? Start your own!
- Be a friendly neighbour. A smile, a wave, or helping with small tasks like shoveling snow can go a long way.
- Support inclusive spaces. Speak up for public spaces, events, and programs that welcome people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Check your local government’s website for ways to get involved.
What will you do?
When we invest time and care into our communities, everyone benefits. What’s one thing you can do this week to build stronger community connections where you live? Share your ideas in the comments!
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