We Are Neighbors

  In a world where people are more digitally connected than ever, loneliness continues to grow as a silent struggle affecting people of all ages.  Amber Allen, a human development and family science specialist with the University of Missouri Extension, is determined to change that trend. Through her work in human development and social connection, she emphasizes the importance of relationships in overcoming loneliness and building stronger, healthier neighborhoods. "People hear the word loneliness and think it’s going to be a gray rain cloud," Allen said during a presentation on Neighboring 101 in March of 2021. "But today, I want to talk about how to make the sun shine in your neighborhood by forming real social connections." Understanding Loneliness and Social Isolation Allen explained that loneliness and social isolation, though related, are not the same. "Loneliness is the feeling of being alone, regardless of the amount of social contact," she...

  To combat loneliness, you can:  reach out to friends and family, pursue hobbies or interests, volunteer in your community, get outdoors, consider getting a pet, practice self-care, engage in online communities, join social groups based on shared interests, and if needed, seek professional help to address underlying issues. Key strategies: Connect with others: Call or text friends and family regularly. Reach out to neighbors or acquaintances. Join social groups or clubs related to your hobbies. Volunteer to connect with others and give back. Connect with a neighbor over a pet, perhaps walk dogs together. Engage in activities: Explore new hobbies or interests. Take a class or workshop Spend time outdoors Exercise regularly Be of service to someone else, especially in your neighborhood Self-care practices: Maintain a healthy lifestyle with good diet and sleep Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques Acknowledge and accept your feelings of loneliness Be honest with neighbo...

  Last year, I traveled across Missouri, meeting with community leaders and residents, working to strengthen neighborhoods and encourage civic engagement. But in nearly every town, I heard the same concern: civic bullies. You see them on Facebook pages like [Insert Community Name] News and Events. They tear down every idea, drown progress in negativity, and discourage others from getting involved. Whether through toxic social media posts, obstructionist politics, or relentless pessimism, they do more than frustrate—they hold communities back. When I brought up Facebook comments in my talks, people immediately nodded, laughed, or sighed in frustration. They had stories of how these pages discourage business owners, stop people from running for office, and stir up drama over small issues. I understand because I’ve seen it happen in my own hometown, Republic, Missouri. Weeds in the Garden Civic bullies remind me of something David Engwicht once said about weeds in a field. Weeds are e...

  ​ In his article " Counting the Cost of Bowling Alone ," Andy Haldane discusses how the weakening of social connections, known as "social capital," affects our lives. ​ Social capital refers to the trust and relationships among people in a community. Haldane notes that over the past 50 years, this social fabric has weakened, leading to more isolation and less community involvement. This trend was first highlighted by Robert Putnam in his book "Bowling Alone," where he observed that activities like bowling leagues, which once brought people together, have declined. ​ The decline in social capital has significant consequences: ​ Economic Growth : Communities with strong social bonds tend to have better economic performance. Trust among people makes business transactions smoother and reduces costs. Haldane points out that a 10% increase in trust can boost a country's economic output by over 1%. ​ Social Mobility : Social connections can open up o...