You want to find out what’s happening in your local community. How can you do it without leaving your house?

Getting involved in your community is easier than you think. While in person is best, there are many ways to get involved without ever leaving home. Social media has many options. Nextdoor is an example in addition to more popular platforms such as Facebook, X and Instagram. Please remember that depending on the source, social media is not always accurate so always double check sources and information. Social media can also become a breeding ground for negativity and complaining so make sure you are adding to a conversation in a positive way. You can visit your city website and sign up for newsletters, notifications and alerts to your email or phone number.

One way is to stay updated with community message boards through social media. Also, try and sign up for weekly emails from your municipality that outline events in your area.

This is where Social Media should triumph! You can quickly get connected to people and experiences simply by lazywebbing your specific request. Even if a follower doesn't live there, they may very well legitimately tag someone who does. Social Media should be used for more than just broadcasting snoozeworthy marketing tripe or complaining about a company's customer service. 🤓

Most community organizations have social media and distribute newsletters regularly. The public can stay connected by follow social media accounts and getting on the email lists of organizations that most interest them. Also sign up for notifications. Searching the websites of organizations that serve communities is another way to stay connected and research information.

One thing I find useful always is the power of social media, one can get all the information you need but you also need to be careful about the fake information. It is important to differentiate between the fake and the real information, which can be done by identifying the authentic sources, that are endorsed, and which have been verified and credible over the time.

To stay informed about local community events, regularly check your local government's website. It's a valuable resource for information on public services, amenities, programs, and local initiatives. Many local government websites offer interactive features like maps, calendars, or directories, enabling you to easily find events by location, date, or type. To get updates straight to your inbox, consider signing up for newsletters, alerts, or notifications. This way, you won't miss out on opportunities to engage in community activities, learn about new initiatives, or participate in public discussions and events that matter to your community.

Municipal websites are a great place to start. In addition to the city/town site, many communities are utilizing social media as a way to share information. If you are already using social media, I would suggest you search for your community. It’s a great way to find out information in real time.

I find out what is going on in my community by a number of avenues. I have reached out through Nextdoor and attended community events advertised in the newspaper. I also receive emails from the county I reside close to. I am able to find out about recreational areas, vacation rentals, events, and restaurants to try. I signed up for a canoe experience through my local state park. I was sure to get my name on their email list. Another avenue I recently found out about is called Stitch. It is a community of people who want to get out and meet others with similar interests in their area.

Recent favorites in my social media updates are the CHANNELS on Instagram or WhatsApp. Remarkably specific and customized for diverse communities, these channels have become my go-to for valuable information on queer meetups, events, conferences, and more.

My favorite way to find out what’s going on in the community without leaving the house is through following self-proclaimed community experts on social media. There are many individuals and groups of people who you can follow on insta and other social media platforms that tell you the best places to eat in town and seek comments from others in the community on their own experiences. In my city, there’s also a dating page that keeps you apprised of all that’s going on in town and the best places to eat. Aside from social media, the local Chamber of Commerce website is another tool to keep up with what’s going on.

One thing I have found useful is social media. Someone out there has dedicated the time and effort to log all the events and best spots in your city, you just have to find them. I have found Instagram and Facebook to be most useful. Instagram has influencers, groups and organizations you can follow for updates. And Facebook has all sorts of groups you can join depending on your interests. Most city and government agencies that host events also have social media accounts that you can follow to stay updated.

I like to follow the individual representative on social media. I usually stray from news reporting platforms because they are often too opinionated.

The social media is by excellence a source of community information. However, we must beware of conspiracy theories, fake news, misinformation and other vices. Consult reliable sources and quote them as references

Given the state of US journalism and particularly local journalism - including but not limited to paywalls, media consolidation, misinformation/mistrust, alongside general media fatigue - I believe support of local media outlets are critical for upholding civic dialogue, democracy, community and culture change. In addition to more notable outlets, exploring outlets that employ truly passionate, engaged, diverse community members can make for great sources.

Please support local media by paying for an online subscription to the local paper. Even if the newspaper is not the best, they are not able to survive without your subscriptions.

If you build it, they will come. Believe me, I have experienced this firsthand. When I realized that there were no lupus support groups in my community, I decided to take matters into my own hands and created one. It was a bold move, but it turned out to be a perfect opportunity for me to connect with other lupus patients and build meaningful relationships. I met people from all walks of life and gained a lot of confidence in the process. My advice to you is to not wait for someone else to take the lead, but to be that person who steps up and paves the way. Be confident in your abilities and take that brave step forward.

Joining local online groups is a great way to connect with people who share similar interests, hobbies, or goals. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn often host various community groups where members can engage in discussions, share resources, and support each other. Additionally, websites like Meetup, Eventbrite, or Nextdoor are tailored specifically for connecting locals around shared activities or interests. If you can't find a group that aligns with your interests, consider starting your own. It's an excellent opportunity to foster a sense of community and bring people together with common interests in your area.

I relocated in 2022 and moved to a completely new region of California. I joined a few local online groups with the intention of finding out about local events and connecting with and understanding the local vibe. After moving we were also looking to buy and sell items or even give away items without having to haul them somewhere. It was a great way for me to both find like-minded people, but also challenge me to step out of my comfort zone and try new things. I've been in the same place now for a little over a year and I have made some great connections and had some great experiences. Whether it is learning the inside scoop on restaurants, shops or beaches it also allows me to connect with people I might never meet in my daily life.

Social media has become the real-time and active connection sources for communities. We have seen it more and more over the last decade- and post-Covid the digital/virtual world advanced significantly. Websites have become more of a static platform, and social is where to go for timely updates and information, especially with chat functions being more accessible or easier to maintain.

Joining online groups is a first step to connect to our local communities. It is a great way to find people that share similar interests, and often a great sources of information. I love being part of those online community’s groups because I get to feel part of something local without having to make a big social effort to put myself out there. Often friendships get created! I have been meeting neighborhood, new gym buddies or board game friends in online group. Im always looking for things to do and those group are so resourceful !

This is true there is a Facebook group for everything. Though I would advise that anyone taking this route proceed with caution and check out the legitimacy, the purpose of the group and the information being shared aligns with what you are looking for and your values. Other than that these groups are frequently updated and members are often quick to respond to queries or provide recommendations.

To stay in the loop with what's happening locally without stepping outside, I'd say joining local online groups is the way to go. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram/Threads, LinkedIn, Meetup, Eventbrite, or Nextdoor are buzzing with community forums. It's not just about getting news; it's also about connecting with folks who share your interests or goals. Chat, ask questions, share ideas, or swap resources. And hey, if there’s nothing that fits your vibe, why not start your own group? It's all about creating those connections and staying engaged with your local scene.

The local chamber of commerce serves as a valuable platform for online connections. This community organization by its own nature is continuously exploring innovative ways to engage for both the benefit of business and community and so is the reverse to our advantage !!!

I believe that online communities can help us socially thrive significantly as a result of having agency rather than being limited by customs of traditional communities. So a person can look to search engines for any number of community connections that resonates with them, then customize their network accordingly. There are risks and downsides of interacting solely online of course, the outcomes of which are just as new to inquiry as its benefits.

I usually just enter what I am looking for on google and they re-direct me to the specifics. I always like to share resources to my personal social media to benefit those in my community.

Attending local online events is an excellent way to engage with your community from the comfort of your home. These events, which range from webinars and workshops to concerts and shows, provide diverse opportunities to learn, enjoy, and connect with others. You can interact with hosts and fellow attendees through chat, video, or audio, enriching your experience. Platforms such as Zoom, Facebook Live, and YouTube are popular for hosting these events. Additionally, consider hosting your own online events. Whether it's a virtual book club, a cooking class, or a discussion forum, this can be a great way to share your interests and connect with like-minded individuals in your area.

LinkedIn and eventbrite are great platforms to find quality virtual events. On LinkedIn join groups and individuals in the field of your interest and you will see the virtual events they host and promote, often these are free and open to the interested public. On eventbrite you can follow and get notifications from specific organizations when they are hosting events, both in-person and online.

In my experience, most cities and municipalities have online committees and workshops that will help you to understand what is happening. This is great for organizations that may touch multiple communities, but you don't have the resources to travel. Also check with your local United Way as they are typically plugged in with the rest of the local community and often provide online networking opportunities.

Google the city and there is usually a list of great things to explore and do as well as information about the city. Some places are rated and visitors give feedback and reviews about the place or activity.

Since Covid, I find myself and others to be more inclined to stay home. Though, it is necessary at times, it is still good to get out in your community. Local events are dependent of our attendance to continue more events.

Given the prevalence of US apartment living, I wouldn't underestimate the wealth of information on our local communities among neighbors in the hallways, elevators, fitness centers, and other shared spaces "at home." An encouragement to strike more conversation in community. Also completely aside, but engaging kids and teens are treasure on this topic. They see and experience the world uniquely, are tapped into the movement of culture, and are unfiltered in their perspective.

Some unconventional ways to learn what’s going on, especially in the city where you may want to learn about demonstrations or find unique stories to cover for journalistic purposes is the Citizen app. It’s meant to be a safety app but if roads are blocked by a parade or something similar you can sometimes find that out via this app.

To stay updated on local happenings without leaving your home, follow local elected officials and community organizations on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter. Attend virtual town hall meetings, check official government websites, subscribe to email newsletters, and join online forums and groups specific to your neighborhood. Keep an eye out for virtual events and workshops hosted by local organizations. These digital resources provide easy access to community news, events, and initiatives, allowing you to stay informed and engaged with your local community from the comfort of your home.

To be updated in a rural community setting without internet nor other form of media and without leaving your home is only through "Word by Mouth". Invite the following to your home the following key people: 1. Pastor 2. Ward councillor 3. Elementary or Primary school teacher. 4. Public servant. 5. CBO reps. You shall then be update through verbal conversations or chats with information one had gathered through their stakeholders and or various partners.

In reference to India, connect with PA's to MLA/MP and leaders to political organisations, connect with religious organizations through ( Whats-app groups - used frequently ).

To stay updated on local community activities from home, leverage online networking tools like LinkedIn to connect with local professionals and organizations. Explore virtual networking events and community forums online. Research local community groups and events through social media platforms or community websites. Engage with online forums and groups dedicated to your area. Utilize local news websites or community newsletters for updates. With these resources, you can stay informed and involved in your community without leaving your house. #communityoutreach #businessdevelopment #linkedin #sandiego #business #networking #communitydevelopment

Get connected to community institutions, Join the chamber, read their newsletter, find a virtual rotary club to attend, and probably, the easiest way to stay connected is to listen to the local radio station. Many local radio stations broadcast online, post free news articles, and keep a community calendar.

Make sure to follow the individuals who make things happen. The event coordinators, photographers, videographers, reporters, new brands, non-profits, and more. These are the people who are first to know when events will happen. Connect with them and you will be able to stay in the loop!

If you've exhausted those options, you could try: Local businesses: Explore the websites or social media pages of local businesses for updates on community events and initiatives they may promote. Virtual tours or livestreams: Check if local attractions or organizations offer virtual tours or livestreams of events, allowing you to participate from home. Neighborhood apps: Utilize neighborhood-specific apps like Nextdoor, where residents often post about local happenings, keeping you informed without leaving home.

When it comes to finding out what is going on in your community, an organic way to stay connected is leveraging your professional network. I've connected with a coworker who was invited to attend a local event for a different industry than we are in, and I gained so much insight from not only the host of the event but the attendees. Staying home may allow you to miss out on a great opportunity. If you aren't able to leave your home, leveraging social media platforms and following the organizations you want to be a part of are, most likely at least, posting consistently about what is happening around the community. The BizJournal publication allows you to see news from more than 25+ cities across the country. That's a good starting point!