One key takeaway from the COVID-19 pandemic has been the vital role of robust support systems in navigating challenging times. This concept encompasses not only our close friends and family but also extends to our communities at large. Here’s how to cultivate a strong community and engage the younger generation in the process!
Holistic Approaches
Cultivating communities can significantly aid vulnerable groups while bolstering our collective resilience against challenges like food scarcity, natural disasters, and climate crises. A thriving community provides opportunities for its individuals to blossom. By including children in these processes, we instill the value of collaboration in fostering stronger communities and a brighter future.
Sophi Robertson, a Zero Waste speaker and consultant from Toronto, focuses on making sustainable living attainable for all. Initially, her emphasis was on her family’s efforts to reduce waste, a practical way to promote eco-friendliness.
As time progressed, however, Robertson shifted towards a more comprehensive view of environmentalism, one that prioritizes community engagement and human rights. As a committed environmentalist and mother, she actively involves her seven-year-old daughter in these practices whenever she can.
“Building up our communities fosters connections and enhances our resilience,” Robertson shares. “It’s akin to creating your own support network, where mutual reliance is key.” She likens environmental stewardship to parenting, suggesting both require a community’s support.
COVID-19’s Impact on Us All
It’s clear that the pandemic has disrupted every facet of life, including our efforts toward environmentalism. As Robertson points out, “While we saw an increase in waste production, it’s crucial to recognize that waste reduction is just one segment of a complex whole.”
Many individuals committed to low-waste lifestyles have chosen to support their local eateries by ordering takeout, even if it involves single-use plastics.
The concept of community has evolved too. “In the early days of the pandemic, I felt a profound sadness and concern at the prospect of losing my sense of community,” Robertson recalls. “But then it dawned on me that we just needed to reimagine what ‘community’ entails.”
In collaboration with fellow environmentally-minded friends, she launched a YouTube channel named “WE-Solation,” offering videos that teach engaging and practical eco-friendly skills, such as cooking roti or repairing clothing. “Community persists, but it requires intentionality and creativity,” she remarks.
Children can also be involved in community initiatives during these times. Robertson proposes activities like crafting cards from recycled materials to be sent to seniors or residents in long-term care facilities.
Global Awareness with Local Action
The phrase “think globally, act locally” is often cited, but what does it mean in practice? It frequently advocates for community engagement. Here are some suggestions to get started. (For more inspiration, see the sidebar “10 fun ways to help build your community.”)
Follow Your Interests
If commitment feels daunting, don’t worry, Robertson advises. “I hesitated to dive into community involvement initially due to concerns about overcommitting. However, you can participate in ways that suit you and extend from your existing interests.”
She shares examples like volunteering with your child’s school council or initiating a “green team” or composting initiative in your workplace or building. Additionally, her family has started to foster animals through a local rescue organization as they had been contemplating pet adoption.
Explore Local Opportunities
“Identify what resources are available in your area. Countless organizations and venues might require assistance,” Robertson suggests. Explore research libraries, museums, animal rescue groups, and nonprofit organizations nearby that may be in need of help. You might be pleasantly surprised by what you uncover!
Engage Kids in Important Issues
Absolutely, children can engage in significant matters! Think about bringing them to local city hall meetings (many are now virtual) or encouraging them to pen letters to local officials about issues they feel passionate about.
“I make it a point to involve my daughter as much as possible,” Robertson states. They have participated together in marches and rallies supporting Indigenous rights, Black Lives Matter, climate strikes, and more. According to Robertson, these experiences are vital in broadening her daughter’s understanding of the world around her.
Promote Sharing
“There’s a lovely tradition of passing down children’s clothing, and it’s truly valuable!” Robertson remarks. “However, this approach should be applied more broadly to items like toys and tools.”
She recounts stumbling upon a pristine stuffed flamingo intended for disposal. Instead of letting it go to waste, she shared it on her local Zero Waste Facebook group, where it was salvaged for a school library’s flamingo-themed display.
Children should be active participants in this sharing culture. Consider encouraging them to sift through their belongings and devise plans for responsible donations, perhaps to local “caremongering” groups, or trading via community platforms like BUNZ.
“I involve my daughter in both donation drop-offs and pickups,” Robertson explains. “It’s a beautiful experience to share resources and foster connections, relationships, and friendships.”
Children play a crucial role in our communities. Not only do they deserve vibrant and resilient neighborhoods, but they can also be vital contributors to creating such environments.
