The term “community” has become more versatile over the past few decades. Our perception of a community has grown a great deal from when it was originally thought of. A community used to be considered a close-knit group of individuals who had the opportunity to interact with one another whenever they wanted. Recently, communities have grown exponentially and the individuals making up said community don’t necessarily enjoy such large communities. Individuals have found ways of creating their own personal communities whether it is through the Internet or simply relocating to a smaller populated area. Communities can also be formed when a group of individuals gather for a purpose and choose to stay connected.
I have personally identified myself in a certain community for the last example. The Delaware National Guard Youth Camp volunteers, campers, and even parents have come to form our own community. Everyone came together for the purpose of our week long camp and a community ended up forming. Individuals within our community reach out to each other through out the year in multiple ways. There are opportunities to meet up, text, call, e-mail, and even Facebook. Being able to have a supportive community no matter what time of year is important to our camp. Our community has become so close-knit that is almost like extended family. I think it is important to have smaller communities that each member can benefit from.
Smaller communities that have a common interest can be more beneficial for everyone involved. Contrast to larger communities where individuals can slip into the cracks or do anything to avoid contact with anyone, smaller communities help move towards a common goal. Individuals are a part of something they truly want to be a part of which can make the experience that much more positive. The more positive an environment can provide within a community, the more positive members can feel. A community is about building and growing within individuals as well as the environment. They balance each other equally. I feel this can be better accomplished within a smaller community rather than a larger one.
Reference:
Penn State World Campus (2014) Media Communications Technology – Lesson 11
I have to agree with what you’ve said. Indeed, often when people are part of a large community, there are often those who thrive, but due to the fact that there are so many people, those who aren’t suffering fall through the cracks and their woes might go unnoticed. The other fact is at least you part of a specialized group, you all know why you’re there and relate, so when you need assistance, or are facing a particular hardship, the person who comes to your aid, will be some who understands you and can offer more insightful and substantive assistance.
And I agree that communities are no longer constricted simply to groups that share some sort of cultural or familial bond. The mob for one! Ha! But yes, communities are thriving on the internet even, it’s a platform that allows people the ability to find their niche – because we’re all unique in our way and how we are might not always be easily accessible to everyone. And possibly the most important thing you said was ‘everyone can benefit from’ – that’s the meaning of family, always being there for anyone no matter how small.
Very interesting read!