Building community through giving

Every business, no matter its size has the potential to give back in some way.

Our local community centre has been desperate for a new website for some time but as a charity had no funds to be able to pay someone to do this. Through setting up my company I learned how to build simple websites and while it’s not something I offer as a service I can create them. So I built them a new website, for free.

I took time over it as though they were a paying client, attended multiple meetings to find out what they were looking for, present initial designs and refine content. I created something with their details so they can log in at any time and are fully in control of everything. I have provided them with training so that they can manage the site themselves – though of course they can contact me if needed.

I do fear that community is fading, there’s fewer volunteers at our local centre and fewer people attending their community events. But community builds relationships, I have made so many friends through the groups I’ve attended at the centre. I also now know a lot of my neighbours through the centre and always bump into a familiar face to say hello to when walking round the village, it’s little things like this that can brighten a day.

Community is important and if we are in a position to give back then I believe we should. If no one volunteers, these important hubs disappear forever. I’m happy to have been in a position to help and will continue to support them where I can. I think social media content creation is next on their list!

Giving back doesn’t need to be grand gestures, simple acts of kindness can make a big difference. How do you give back to your local community?