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Inspiration

Finding community in a new locale

hen measures were enacted in 2020 to halt Possibilities abound. And don't forget to check in with
the spread of COVID-19, the payments your local chamber of commerce, which will likely give
sphere was forced to transform. Ecommerce you a warm welcome and help you connect with potential
W soared along with contactless payments, business partners.
digital wallets, mobile apps and other forms of digital
commerce. Volunteer for worthy causes
If you have children in school, you'll find opportunities
In addition, many employers found that having people to be of service there. If you belong to a faith communi-
work from home worked as well or sometimes better than ty, you'll find not only fellowship but also ways to offer a
having all workers on site. And numerous entrepreneurs helping hand, as well. There may be local issues or causes
realized they could run their businesses far from expen- that resonate with you, too, such as preservation of his-
sive metropolitan centers. This has led a good number of toric buildings or parks. Local museums or walking tours
individuals and businesses to relocate. might need docents or guides. There's no better way to
learn all about a community than to teach others about it.
While these people's professional responsibilities may
be essentially the same, their new communities may be Get to know your neighbors
quite different than the old. And just like remote work
requires adjustments, settling into a new locale requires It used to be more common that when folks moved into
adjustments, too. If you are among those who have moved a new community, neighbors would stop by to intro-
recently, here are some ideas to help you settle in and be- duce themselves, often with some food, flowers or drink
come part of your new community. to share. If your neighbors don't ring your doorbell, ring
theirs instead and introduce yourself. If you have a family,
Check out local classes and clubs introduce them, too. Then invite your new neighbors to a
barbecue or other type of gathering at your home. While
See whether a nearby university or community college of- socializing, they will volunteer all sorts of useful informa-
fers classes in subjects that appeal to you. It's one way to tion from gardening tips and recycling guidelines to best
meet people who share your interests. If you belonged to local attractions and eateries nearby.
a gym or health club in your former hometown, find one
to join in your new home. The same goes for other clubs. In the past, moving to a new locale often meant switching
Many organizations, such as Toastmasters, have branches jobs. Not so anymore. You can be employed by one com-
throughout the world. If you're an amateur actor, audi- pany long-term or continue to run your business seam-
tion for a part in an upcoming play at a local theater. If lessly whenever you pick up stakes and find a new place
you own a dog or two, consider an agility training course. to call home.
Even toy dogs can do this, and it's a great way to have fun
with other dog owners.

Kate Gillespie, President and CEO
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