As humans we have a fundamental need for community. Our larger community has seen lots of shifting and expanding over the last couple of years and we each have faced our own hurdles trying to understand the changes. How can we continue to maintain the communities we’ve built over the last couple of years? What actions can we as individuals take to contribute to our own communities? The only way to truly be part of a thriving community is to contribute to the community. Know your skills and your worth. Commit to the activities that you actually look forward to and part from the ones that cause you to feel stress. When we are passionate about something and unafraid to show it, we inspire others to think about freeing themselves from their obligations.
What would our world look like if everyone pledged to support their communities they are involved in with their strengths? This is a loving reminder that nonprofit and volunteer organizations need help all year, not just around the holidays. There is so much going on in Green County, that there is something for everyone to do and enjoy. Volunteer for a fun run, help build or decorate a parade float, read to animals at a shelter, donate your extra garden produce, or bring a garbage bag on a walk to the park and clean up while you go. Some people’s strengths aren’t doing but some other supporting role, and that’s okay too!
An organization that I was I lucky to find, is the Soil Sisters. I have never known another group of strong passionate women in my life. A women-led community of farmers, gardeners, ranchers, herders, laborers, bakers, florists, artists, policy-makers, and so much more. Great people dedicating their lives to creating healthy soil, improving air and water quality, living sustainably, keeping happy animals, and learning from the land. This community thrives on in-person communication through various events and speakers, monthly potlucks during the growing season, and the active trade and bartering network.
As a new farmer, I trade my labor and availability for others’ knowledge. I tend to be involved in a handful or organizations at all times, and this one stands out to me because of the way the members talk with one another. As we approach the season of holidays, it’s important to remember that winter months can be isolating and dark for many people. If we want to go in to 2023 with the same amount of spirit and goals as this year, we should acknowledge all the people that made it great for us. We should look beyond our own accomplishments and appreciate the hard work and time spent by others in our communities.
You could make someone’s day so bright by sending a card thanking them for everything they’ve done. This can and should be done any time of year. Send a letter to a daycare provider or teacher, slip a note to a coworker, buy someone a drink, or call someone that you care about. Letting people know that their hard work is appreciated is one of the best ways to inspire them to keep on doing what they are good at, and giving back to their community.
— Alicia Gasaway lives in Monticello on a small farm and grows produce for friends and family. She cultivates a food forest, practices rotational grazing, and enjoys learning about energy healing, herbal medicine, and crafting her own tea blends and is on the planning committee for the Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference. Soil Sisters, a program of Renewing the Countryside, connects and champions women in the Green County area committed to sustainable and organic agriculture, land stewardship, local food, family farms and healthy and economically vibrant rural communities.
