In the classic movie It’s A Wonderful Life , George Bailey stands up for the people of his town. He believes that when families own homes, they care more about their neighborhoods. George knows that stable neighborhoods—where people feel safe and connected—are the heart of a strong community. This idea is just as true today. When neighbors help each other and build relationships, they create something called social capital. Social capital means the trust, friendships, and support people share. And it turns out, that’s not just good for neighborhoods—it’s great for local businesses too. When people know and trust their neighbors, they are more likely to talk to each other. They share stories about what’s going on in the community. That includes where they like to shop, eat, or get their hair cut. A neighbor might say, “I love the service at that bakery downtown,” and soon more people are visiting that shop. These positive conversations are like free advertising for local businesses. And...