What does the word ‘community’ mean to you? People living within a specific locality? A group with a shared interest? A way of describing a section of society? Or a specific group sharing a common way of life? However broadly or specifically the term is used, the word ‘community’ seems to say something more about a group of people than the word ‘crowd’.
There’s something going on with this word ‘community’ that’s inherently positive. Whereas ‘crowd’ suggests a random group of people gathered together, ‘community’ gives a sense that people are connected and working towards something that is mutually beneficial. After all, it’s not often that the word ‘community’ is applied negatively. Whoever heard of ‘the complaining community’ or a ‘community of problem-finders’?
Of course there are all sorts of rallying points and motivations that will cause a community to emerge, or that are represented within. And some may be nobler than others. But there are characteristics of community, that can create opportunities for positive change and growth to happen in people’s lives.
Through community, people can connect with others and take mutual responsibility for a shared idea, goal, project or way of life. Ideas, resources and talents are shared. People can feel a sense of belonging; that they are important and valuable. Community can provide a context for discovery, where people can experience diversity, learn from each other and work together.
At Chapel St we’re excited about celebrating community like this. It’s why we’re so passionate about creating resources and services that have community at their heart – because it’s through community that people can connect with others, be inspired and create new possibilities.
When a crowd becomes a community, amazing things can happen.
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