Even though the government has reopened, many folks are still feeling the effects of rising costs, service delays, and everyday challenges, especially during the holiday season. The truth is: we don’t have to wait on anyone to save us. Communities thrive when neighbors step up, link arms, and move forward together.
Local groups continue to feel the pressure — food banks, shelters, schools, and neighborhood organizations are seeing more people come through than ever. Here’s how you can help strengthen your community right where you live:
1. Stay connected
- Know your people. Reach out to your neighbors, local community groups, churches, and school networks. For official guidance on available local services, check out our thanksgiving resources guide.
- Swap contact info — phone, social media, or a WhatsApp thread — so you can communicate quickly when someone needs help.
- Stay calm and encourage one another. Tough times find us all, but staying positive and connected makes the load lighter.
Spot the gaps and step up
- Look around. What does your community really need right now? Food support? Rides? Childcare? Someone to check in on elders?
- Volunteer in small ways — picking up groceries, sharing rides, dropping off a hot meal, or offering a listening ear. It all adds up.
- Get connected with us so that we can connect you with resources, volunteers, and partners who are already building Ohio community support.
- For more ways to volunteer locally, see ServeOhio, the state commission that mobilizes Ohioans to strengthen communities.
Volunteer whenever you can
- Gather your people — friends, neighbors, church fam — and commit to helping out a few hours a week. Rotate tasks so nobody burns out.
- Local nonprofits are constantly stepping up. For example, Mid-Ohio Food Collective continues to provide support as families navigate rising food costs and benefit gaps.
- Small actions create momentum — and momentum builds unity.
Keep the info flowing
- Share updates quickly. If you hear about new programs, resources, or changes in services, pass that information along.
- Use whatever tools your people use: group chats, Instagram, Facebook — anything that keeps communication clear.
- Community works best when everyone is in the know.
5. Build long-term
Keep the good energy going even when things feel calmer. Keep meeting up, volunteering, mentoring young folks, and pushing for local change.
Celebrate the wins, big or small. Trust grows when people see results — that’s how our community gets stronger, one connection at a time.
Bottom line:
When systems shift, communities rise. Check on your people, link with local groups, and keep your circle strong. Small moves make big waves — and together, we can handle anything.
Want to connect or find others in your area who are supporting their community?
Get connected today! We’d love to plug you in.
