Community building, like home construction, can be described in terms of the “larger” components or the more “minute” details. One can talk of laying foundations, framing walls, and putting on the roof…or one can talk about how to lay a block, nail a 2x6, and how many nails you put in each shingle. Building community has its moments when groups gather and learn. Sharing circles, community festivals, and community gardens can try to make that happen. But much of what happens, even there, happens on the level of the individual.
Much of the work we do takes place by facilitating individual encounters within the community or around rather focused issues. Nothing grandiose, just day to day interaction. Slowly, the integration takes place, usually in small steps rather than giant leaps.
This past week, we dealt with some of those issues. A county attorney contacted us about how to help immigrant residents understand how to accurately report information on a marriage license. A mobile home park resident asked assistance in contacting officials to resolve issues about a purchased home. A temp agency employee and the agency staff again called upon us to facilitate their mutual questions about schedules and availability. Welcome Center staff was invited to a local dental office to talk with dental providers about cultural issues and education that could improve their understanding with the Somali community. It seems like much confusion could be resolved with some community education regarding how dental insurance works and why patients should have regular preventive care. (We even were asked why people remove their shoes before sitting in the dental chair…a sign of respect for the office).
We regularly help people call or check online sites for immigration or unemployment, look for housing or a job, and fill out the forms our agencies require. Several times a week, generous volunteers give their time to teach ESL to very willing learners. People learn a little more from each conversation about how things work, about where to call, about why people do what they do…and a community is built brick by brick.
That same process happens in many lunchrooms, reception desks, and classrooms every day. Ordinary people in their curiosity and interest for the other find ways to build their bridges and grow in understanding. The important thing is the attitude in the community that embraces all among us.
The Community Garden is Growing
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