Homewood-Flossmoor Community Needs You!

In our quest to create a gentler, more loving world I believe that kindness is the easiest tool we can use.  Oftentimes the acts of kindness that make the most profound impact are the simplest ones. Our lives are replete with opportunities to be helpful, considerate, thoughtful, and friendly to loved ones, our environment and even our community. 

 "Our community?"  You might be asking yourself how you can be kind to our H-F community.  First let's talk about community.  While there continues to be discussion over what actually defines a community, for many people it is a sense of cohesiveness among a group of people who share a common geographic area. A strong, healthy community requires active civil engagement from all of its citizens.  People of all ages who feel a sense of belonging tend to lead happier and healthier lives, and strong communities create a more stable and supportive society. 

With our world moving at a faster and more detached manner due to technology, busy schedules and the challenges brought about by the current economy, it can be harder and harder to feel a sense of community. It is too easy to become isolated in our homes and disconnected from our neighbors. However, just like any other living system our community must be continually fed and nurtured.  

Ask yourself what have you done lately to benefit our H-F community?  While this question may sound a bit foreign and might require a little thought and creativity, it certainly need not be hard work.  Here are 10 simple ideas to get you started starting with those that take the most time down to those that take the least:  

 1.  Attend a Village Board, School District, or Park District Meeting.  You don't have to run for office or serve as an elected official - just show up at meetings to show gratitude for those who do serve.  

 2.  After the Holidays recycle your Christmas Tree by dropping it off at Irons Oaks.  Trees are chipped and mulched and used on the paths and trails. 

 3.  Offer to drive an elderly neighbor to the store or elsewhere.  Remember, with a little luck we will all grow old someday and might be in need of a ride at some point.  

4.  Rake leaves for a neighbor who is a single Mom.  

5.  Shovel part of the sidewalks on your block.  If anything, do it for the dogs - they appreciate it! 

6.  Take 5 minutes to introduce yourself and welcome the new neighbor on your block.  No matter where you move, even if it’s only across town, you can't help feeling disconnected and just plain adrift for a little while.

7.  Pick up a piece of trash that's out by your curb or parkway.   

8.  Turn your car off when waiting for your spouse at the train or your children after school.  A simple turn of your key can keep the air cleaner, save money and fuel and is good for your car. Stop-Idling!  

9.  Hold the door open for a stranger.  

10.  Smile!  It lowers your heart rate, reduces stress, makes a great gift and is Free!  

I am certain you have more ideas of how we can collectively enrich our H-F community. Share them here so we can pass along to others. 

“We can begin by doing small things at the local level, like planting community gardens or looking out for our neighbors.  That is how change takes place in living systems, not from above but within, from many local actions occurring simultaneously.”  Grace Lee Boggs