Let me recommend a practical guidebook for anyone looking to create a more vibrant neighborhood or town. It’s called Building a Vibrant Community by Quint Studer, and it’s based on the real-life transformation of Pensacola, Florida. The book reads like a roadmap for renewal—packed with wisdom, missteps, and lessons learned. Given how rare it is to find case studies of this depth and honesty, this should be required reading for anyone serious about revitalization—whether you're a mayor, a chamber director, or just the one neighbor in the cul-de-sac who refuses to give up on your town. The book covers the messy, beautiful business of building momentum, handling different personalities, engaging youth, navigating setbacks, and empowering local entrepreneurs. It doesn’t sugarcoat the process—it shows how hard it can be to shift a community culture. But it also shows how deeply worth it that journey is. Early on, Studer offers a definition that’s both visionary and practical:  “Gre...

In today’s “Connection Economy,” human bonds are not just socially valuable—they are economically transformative. According to the Chamber of Connection , strengthening social ties translates into tangible financial benefits for employers, local businesses, healthcare systems, nonprofits, and cultural institutions  . As communities become more connected, they lay the groundwork for enhanced productivity, revenue, and resilience. 1. Healthier, More Productive Workforces Loneliness isn’t just a personal struggle—it’s a workplace issue. Research from Cigna reveals that disconnected employees cost employers an average of $467 in healthcare expenses and lose $4,200 in productivity per person  . By fostering social cohesion—through mentorship programs, shared breaks, or team-building—organizations not only reduce costs but also cultivate stronger cultures and brand advocacy. 2. Spending Anchored in Relationships Connection drives commerce. People with strong social bonds are 1.5 tim...

  "Building block-level connection won’t solve every issue," wrote Eric Smith, a community development friend of mine from Ohio, in a recent article. "However, it can shift the culture from isolation to invitation, from 'us vs. them' to 'together we can. And when that shift takes root — even on one block — everything begins to change. If we want to mend the social fabric of our communities, we don’t have to wait for a massive program or policy. We can begin by knocking on the door across the street."  That simple truth contains a powerful challenge—and an even more powerful opportunity. In a time when loneliness is widespread, political polarization is growing, and trust in our neighbors is fading, we may be tempted to believe that only sweeping national programs or policy reforms can restore community. But the first step to healing the social fabric of America isn’t massive or complex—it’s personal and local. It begins with a knock on the door across th...

  The issue of social isolation and loneliness has emerged as a pressing public health crisis in recent years, affecting not only older adults but also younger generations.  In their April 2025 report, Can Intergenerational Connection Heal Us , CoGenerate explores the potential of community-based organizations to address this challenge by intentionally fostering sustained, meaningful interactions between younger and older participants. With interviews of 41 stakeholders and a community-of-practice involving 167 organizations serving more than 230,000 people across eight countries and 30 US states (plus Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C.), the report establishes a data-driven and deeply human narrative. It distills nine key findings, personal stories and voices, and five actionable recommendations. Context & Importance Loneliness and social isolation have devastating consequences—heightening risks of heart disease, stroke, depression, dementia, and premature death. They a...

In small towns across America, something remarkable is happening—not through flashy top-down programs or one-size-fits-all policies, but through stories, shared values, and the voices of everyday residents. This is the power behind the Community Heart & Soul  process, a proven model that puts people—not politics—at the center of community planning and transformation. Founded by Lyman Orton, proprietor of The Vermont Country Store, Community Heart & Soul was born from a simple yet profound belief: that small towns hold deep reservoirs of resilience, pride, and possibility. With the right framework, these qualities can be harnessed to create stronger, more vibrant, and inclusive communities. Over the past decade, more than 120 communities—mostly with populations under 30,000—have implemented this process with lasting results. So what exactly is Community Heart & Soul? At its core, it’s a four-phase, community-led planning model that helps towns discover what matters most ...

Missouri residents with a passion for improving their communities are encouraged to apply for the 2025 Neighborhood Leadership Academy (NLA) —a powerful 10-week training program designed to equip neighborhood champions with skills in project planning, community-building, and personal leadership. The fall 2025 session runs from September 10 to November 19 , with weekly classes held virtually via Zoom on Wednesdays from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Participants will gain knowledge and tools to make a meaningful difference in their neighborhoods through hands-on learning and community-based projects. The program is ideal for: Neighborhood association members Resident volunteers and community leaders Staff from community-based organizations Local government employees and municipal officials Business owners looking to get more involved During the course, participants design and implement a real-world project to improve their community. Past projects include launching a neighborho...

  In a quiet neighborhood in southeast Roanoke, Virginia, something unexpected has been happening every Tuesday at 5:15 p.m. A group of neighbors grab grocery bags, put on gloves, and go for a walk—but not just any walk. They pick up litter along the way. This simple act, now known as plalking , is helping change their neighborhood and bring people together in a surprising and powerful way. You may be wondering: What in the world is plalking ? Let’s start with the word itself. Plalking is a mix of picking up litter and walking . The idea came from a Swedish fitness trend called plogging —which combines jogging with picking up trash. But as Sunni, a leader in her neighborhood, pointed out, “We are not going to be running around picking up litter. We'll take a walk and do it.” And with that, plalking was born. From a Bad Reputation to Big Change Sunni didn’t set out to start a movement. She just loved her neighborhood. “I live here, and I have friends that live here, and we have a...

  Why is it important for college students to be neighborly in dorms? That is a question I never considered while living in Turner Hall at Drury University and Smith Hall at the University of Missouri. But it is a question that residence life groups are starting to ask now.   I believe there are some simple and basic reasons why it is important for college students to be taught how to be neighborly in dorms. Building a supportive community: College dormitories can become more than just a place to sleep; they can be vibrant, supportive communities where students feel included and valued. Enhanced safety and security: When neighbors know and trust each other, they are more likely to look out for each other and report suspicious activity, fostering a safer environment. Improved social connections: Being friendly and approachable can lead to new friendships and connections, which is particularly beneficial for students who are new to campus. A built-in support system: Neighb...