Every day, news headlines inform the public of the multitude of tragic and unjust events occurring across the globe. From natural disasters to nation’s systems that fail to support its inhabitants, there are constant unbelievable hardships. In the Western world, these hardships are magnified by capitalist societies that promote individualist mindsets. However, it is essential that as citizens, we invest in our communities to ignite the changes we desire to see and receive sustainable support not provided by national leaders. 

As Audre Lorde intuitively puts it, “Without community, there is no liberation.” There is no you or I, but instead, us, working together to liberate ourselves in ways that are essential for survival. This is especially important in communities where resources are not abundant, and people must rely on each other to meet basic needs. Audre Lorde and other activists have written many essays on the links between community and liberation. So, here are some ways to invest in your community in small ways. 

1. Shop Small Businesses 

Shopping small businesses allows you to support the work of people in your community and invest locally. These small businesses often rely on community support to stay afloat, and it can be more sustainable than shopping from bigger businesses, especially online. The quality of the product may also be better because of the individualized care, and you can support more ethical labor environments. 

2. Attend Local Farmer’s Markets 

Farmer’s markets are a great place to support local farms and shop more sustainably. Local farms are essential for providing services and goods to communities directly. It is also another way to support small and local businesses. They are a way to discover local brands to continuously support. Furthermore, the wide variety of goods at large farmer’s markets is a great way to get fresh produce not found in stores and often caters to special diets. 

3. Donate to Community Drives 

Community drives help locals who may not be able to meet their basic needs. In many places, and especially in America, many of us have a habit of overconsuming. Donating to drives is a great way to unload excess resources and support community members by redistributing those resources. You never know what you can unload, and one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. 

4. Share Resources with Others 

In many communities, there is an abundance of resources that go unused simply because because have not heard of them. A lot of resources and opportunities are not promoted, and word-of-mouth is the only way some resources are revealed to many community members. Whether through social media or in private conversations, it is always important to share community resources with people who may not be aware of them but may desperately need them. 

These tips are only some of the ways to engage with and support your community. They also promote sustainability and are a great reminder that social change requires everyone to take action. 

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Photo by Christian Mackie