“Community wellbeing is the combination of social, economic, environmental, cultural, and political conditions identified by individuals and their communities as essential for them to flourish and fulfill their potential.”
This is an extremely interesting definition by Wiseman and Brasher, public health researchers reflecting on community wellbeing.
While it is true that groups of dedicated individuals shape a community, and sometimes an entire city, multiple diverse factors contribute to the well-being of the community.
Have you ever wondered how to identify a vibrant community? There are certain signs are associated with it, which we will discuss in this piece. Our only goal is to improve our understanding of what it takes to be a vibrant community that promotes community wellbeing throughout its entire population.
Strong social structure
You can’t imagine a community without relationships, or strong connections. These relationships or connections go beyond interpersonal interactions and touch on the local history and geography. This involves being aware of the past and having a sense of the character and identity of the community. Ideal neighbors take pride in their affiliation.
Residents always look to the trustworthy leaders in thriving neighborhoods for advice and guidance. Local interactions are characterized by a sense of reciprocal obligation and trust. People adore their community and its residents.
You know you’ve found a special place when you see a neighborhood where residents get along, watch out for one another, and enjoy each other’s company.
Structures that support everyone
It can be safely said that in modern times a truly homogeneous community does not exist. Maybe it never did. Instead, there are varying levels of both overt and covert diversity within communities. This, in my opinion, is a strength.
It implies that every community requires structures that accommodate a variety of people. While diversity does come with its own challenges, it actually helps the overall community. A community with a mix of income levels can have a stronger, and more thoughtful vibe. Neighbors put humility into practice, preparing them for cooperation in the community on a daily basis.
Thriving local economy
When designed for a mixed-income neighborhood, coffee shops, grocery stores, small service businesses, and more can improve neighbors’ access to resources.
Strong local economies in the community encourage residents to stay longer in the area, which fosters deeper relationships between neighbors. Overall, a vibrant local economy can improve the health of its residents by reducing commuting times, creating jobs to redistribute resources, and reinvesting money into the area.
Furthermore, local business owners inspire younger residents to dream big and strengthen their employability by serving as role models and sources of employment experience.
A thriving economy is one that can afford to pay workers a living wage. The focus should be on a range of occupations, housing options, and industries that cater to people from all walks of life.
It is important that we as a society continue to implement new, contextualized community development strategies. When neighbors band together to effect significant change, we know the vision of a vibrant community is attainable.