35 Ways to Build the Community You’re Craving
These are strange times when we sometimes feel disconnected. Here are some smart and simple ways to help change that, says Questrom lecturer and community organizer
A little library can be a great way of connecting with the community. Photo via Wendy Swart Grossman
35 Ways to Build the Community You’re Craving
These are strange times when we sometimes feel disconnected. Here are some smart and simple ways, from small to big and bold, to help change that, writes Questrom lecturer and community organizer Wendy Swart Grossman
Poster board, magic markers, masking tape.
These were my tools during my early career as a student, community, and political organizer. Occasionally I’d break out a clipboard—because nothing says “I get stuff done” quite like a clipboard.
Once you’ve logged enough hours as an organizer, you can’t turn it off. You arrive at events scanning for flow: check-in, bathrooms, snacks, chairs, exits. Even when I have zero involvement, people ask me where things are—and, weirdly, I usually know.
Why? Because along with being a lecturer of strategy and innovation at Boston University’s Questrom School of Business, and a community organizer, I’m also an observer. A builder—of community, of connection. I do it because I need it. Human interaction fills my soul. And I’m not alone.
We’re living in anxious, disconnected times. But you can help shift that. Yes—you. From your dorm room, your apartment, your house. People need people. Even small moments of connection can make life feel less overwhelming. And you’ll feel better, too.
In fact, research shows that relationships—even small touches—are the single greatest predictor of a long, healthy, happy life. Not wealth. Not fame. Not fancy schools.
Just connection.
So just like a rock tossed into a pond, see what kind of ripples you can create.
🥄 SMALL: 10 Ideas for Bite-Size Bravery
- Compliment a stranger’s outfit—especially something fun like their socks.
- Look up while walking. Smile. Maybe say, “Hello” or “Lovely morning.”
- Admire someone’s garden out loud. Gardeners love praise.
- At Trader Joe’s? Thank the cashier by name (it’s on their tag).
- Smile at new parents. Say something kind. Applaud them if they’re out with a newborn. If you have been in their position, let them know.
- Hold the door and say, “After you,” like you’re in a rom-com.
- At a crosswalk? Give a quick wave to the driver who stopped for you. It helps to reinforce their good behavior.
- Say “Bless you” when someone sneezes. Even if you’re spiritually undecided.
- Offer a lozenge to a coughing stranger.
- Traveling? Be the patient, kind seatmate others hope for.
🏋️♀️ MEDIUM: 20 Ways to Flex Your Connection Muscles
- Bake something and bring it to a neighbor. While taste matters, it’s more about the gesture!
- Offer to help someone carry their luggage, moving boxes, or groceries.
- Ask someone for help. Vulnerability fosters connection.
- Invite someone over for dinner. Spaghetti and awkward silence? Worth it.
- Go to a local event and clap like you mean it.
- Volunteer at your local food bank. It feeds the soul.
- Keep small bills to give away to local buskers. Acknowledge the musician as you pop it in their open case.
- Send a handwritten “thinking of you” note. Stamps still work.
- Leave a kind comment on someone’s LinkedIn.
- In the elevator? Offer to press someone’s button. It’s a 30-second community.
- Text someone just because. “Saw this duck—thought of you.”
- Carry dog treats. Even if you don’t have a dog, dog people will love you.
- Work from your local public library. Chat with the librarians—superheroes in disguise.
- Offer to take a photo for tourists.
- Taking a selfie? Ask someone else to take it. Start a conversation.
- At a museum? Ask a guard what their favorite piece is. They often have incredible insight and are artists themselves.
- Ask locals for tips instead of Googling. You’ll get the real deal.
- Shout out local artists, businesses, or nonprofits on your socials. Share the love.
- See a friend’s GoFundMe? Donate $5. It’s not about the amount—it’s about being seen.
- Plant a tomato or herb garden in front of your home. Invite neighbors to take some.
🚀 LARGE: 5 “Why Not?” Power Moves
- Host a small event for a nonprofit you admire. Keep it simple and heartfelt.
- Start a “barter board” in your building or at work. No money—just shared skills and needs.
- Organize a block party—with co-planners. Most cities will block off your street for it.
- Build a Little Free Library with a neighbor. Dedicate it at your block party.
- Hang a swing in your front yard with a sign: “Yes, this swing is for you.”
Finally, be bold. Be brave. Build the world you want to live in. And don’t forget—you don’t have to do it alone. Ask for help. That’s where community begins.
Wendy Swart Grossman is a Questrom School of Business lecturer of strategy and innovation and the cofounder of Creative Re/Frame. She can be reached at wswart@bu.edu.
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