What is a community?
A community is a group of people who share common interests, habits, opinions or characteristics. The ties that bind members of a community are based on interactions founded on shared objectives. Several types of community exist(example. learning, religious, ethnic...). It is desirable to be open to others and to be part of a community.
Why become part of it?
Being part of a community brings many advantages:
- Help mental health.
- Break solitude.
- Make friends.
- Express and fulfill their needs.
- Receive help and emotional support.
- Get involved in a project.
- Etc.
It's up to you to choose the community that's right for you, and to initiate the steps involved.
How can I join my community?
Here are just a few examples of how to help integrate into a community.
Attend an establishment specific to your religious values: church, synagogue,mosque...
Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Choose the establishment you wish to attend.
Step 2: Find out about the schedule, taking your needs into account: Attend the religious service offered by the establishment of your choice. Learn about the services available: advice, referrals, food and clothing assistance...
Step 3: Adopt an attitude of openness towards the people around you.
Step 4: Try to communicate with these people.
Visit a community center near you!
The list of community organizations in Quebec is long and the programs they offer are diverse. They respond to most interests and needs such as leisure activities, whatever the age or status of the person wishing to participate in aprogram.
The participation in leisure activities and programs provides opportunities to develop skills and social relationships and friendships, to reduce or eliminate levels of stress, isolation and exclusion, to maintain or improve both mental and physical health.
It’s up to you to decide what are your interests, needs and priorities. Once you've made your decision, you're invited to follow the steps below:
Step 1: Look for a community center near you that meets your needs or interests.
Step 2: Introduce yourself or call to request information: schedule of selected activities, registration documents and costs, etc.
Step 3: If you feel it's necessary, take note of the information provided or ask for it to be sent by e-mail.
Step 4: Ask about the process and constraints involved in the registration: the way to proceed the registration (in person or online), the deadline before the start of the activity, etc.
What goal can I set myself to become part of mycommunity?
- When I pass them, I say hello to my neighbors.
- I invite a neighbor over for coffee.
- Twice a week, I take part in a leisure activity offered in my neighbourhood.
- I participate in the community garden.
- Once a season, I volunteer or get involved in a humanitarian cause in myneighbourhood.
Set your goals!
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