Resources for Community Living

People decide where they want to live based on many factors, such as available work, proximity to family and friends, and environmental preferences. Many people also look for a strong community where they can establish their home. The presence of community resources can indicate if an area has a vibrant and caring community.

Community Email List Service

• Ascertain if the community has an email list service or newsletter that keeps local residents up-to-date on the activities in the community. Local list services can serve as announcement boards for buy/sell/giveaway items, real estate opportunities, childrens' activities, neighborhood events and announcements. Pets change hands, parents find caregivers and people find friends through community list services. If you have identified an area where you want to live, ask the neighbors about such a resource.

Community Schools

• Investigate the school system in the area. Schools can function as much more than educational institutions for children. Schools can offer classes for adults and evening activities for people in the community. Support groups, neighborhood action groups, neighborhood watch committees and others can use a school as their base if the school system promotes such involvement. Parents should also research the school's interest and ability to engage the community in its educational activities and programs.

Community Centers

• Visit the local community center. A good community center will run programs that meet the needs and interests of the community. If the community has a large percentage of elderly residents, the community center should offer classes and services that gear toward that population. Likewise, a community center located in a family-oriented neighborhood should offer extensive sports, crafts and parenting events and activities.

Religious Life in a Community

• Observe the religious life of the area. Even residents who don't attend services on a regular basis can find a local religious institution that provides comfort, council and community for themselves and their families. Many churches, mosques and synagogues run outreach programs that bring community members together in good times and in times of stress. In addition to the physical comfort that these programs can offer, the emotional support of religious-based programs can make a world of difference in the lives of the community's members.

Community Charities

• Note the charity programs in the neighborhood. The existence of programs and projects that allow and encourage community members to take care of their neighbors in times of trouble speaks positively about the community's overall "quality of living" that a potential newcomer may appreciate.

Community Health Resources

• Make sure that the community has adequate health resources to meet you and your family's needs. Families with young children will want to know that 24-hour medical services run in the area in case of emergencies, either through a local clinic or at an area hospital. Adults with medical issues should also make certain they will have adequate access to medical care when needed.