How to create community?
Community is a group effort. It takes everyone showing up at the same time to the same event. Getting a sense of familiar faces makes gives others a routine. Humans in nature, love routines, familiarity makes us feel safe. Just showing up on a regular basis helps to make you and others around you more comfortable.
Everyone wants to feel included. It starts with you! Reaching out to someone who you don't know, it is not always easy. Realizing the most everyone wants to belong can take the pressure off. Some people are better at expressing it than other. Taking a moment to step out side your comfort zone is not only a way to connect for you but also for the person who might be to shy to reach out.
Staying connected
Let's face it, we are all so busy with life, work, kids, pets, family, etc. staying connected with people via social media is a great way to get to know them without spending a lot of one on one face time with them. Don't be shy, offer up encouraging comment or a fun emoji on a recent post. It let's the other person know that you have common interests and next time you meet face to face you will have somethings to talk about. Social media never replaces spending quality time together.