Connecting to Community: An Introduction

One of the best things you can offer any child is a strong connection to community. Kids need to have relationships with caring adults outside of their families, including neighbors, their friends’ parents, program leaders, and other community members. By helping create an engaged community, you can ensure that all of your community’s children are given the support they need to grow up to be healthy, caring, responsible adults.

Did You Know?

• Only about one third of teenagers who responded to Search Institute surveys feel that there are people in their neighborhood who care about them.
• Almost 9 out of 10 middle and high school students are involved in positive activities outside of school. Half are involved in three or more activities.¹

While every community is different, there are always opportunities for your child to get involved. And if you don’t find the connections you seek, you can make a difference in the lives of children by helping strengthen the bond between youth and the community.