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Community Wellbeing: Creating a Sense of Belonging

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By: Affinity Wellbeing Institute

Community wellbeing is about the relationship people have with the places where they live, work and spend their time. It can involve feeling connected to your community, taking pride in where you live and believing that you have a role to play in making it stronger.

Our partners at Gallup identify community wellbeing as one of five essential elements of wellbeing. Its research describes it as the sense of engagement people have with the area where they live. Gallup also emphasizes that wellbeing is interconnected, meaning that community experiences can influence other areas of life.

Community wellbeing can mean different things to different people. For one person, it may involve volunteering with a local organization. For another, it could mean knowing neighbors, supporting local businesses, participating in community events or simply feeling that their neighborhood is a place where they belong.

A strong sense of community can provide opportunities for connection and purpose. It can also create opportunities to contribute to something larger than yourself. Whether someone coaches a youth sports team, participates in a neighborhood cleanup, volunteers at a food pantry or supports a local cause, these activities can create meaningful connections between individuals and their communities.

Community wellbeing also connects with the other dimensions of wellbeing. Community involvement can create social connections, while a safe and supportive environment can contribute to physical and mental wellbeing. Community resources can also influence financial and career opportunities, from access to local services and education to networking and employment opportunities.

Importantly, community wellbeing is not simply about where someone lives. It is also about how connected they feel to the people and places around them.

Building community wellbeing does not necessarily require a major commitment. Small actions, introducing yourself to a neighbor, attending a local event, volunteering or supporting a community organization, can help create stronger connections.

Ultimately, community wellbeing is about recognizing that individual wellbeing and community wellbeing can reinforce one another. When people feel connected to their communities and find meaningful ways to contribute, they can help create places where more people have opportunities to thrive.

Wellbeing Week 2026

Join us for a week of free resources, engaging activities, and opportunities to connect, all designed to help you focus on your overall wellbeing.

  • Virtual Webinars
  • Workshops
  • In – Person Activities

Visit here to explore the events and find an opportunity that’s right for you.