Let’s take a moment and think of life as a garden. Each seed we plant and nurture represents the relationships and connections we cultivate.
For years now, I’ve tended to a community garden plot, gathering the fruits of my labor to make treats and share with my neighbors. I like to think of sharing food as planting little seeds of nourishment, providing a little reminder to us that what we give and receive is essential for our collective well-being.
At this point, you might wonder why I am sharing this on LinkedIn.
This metaphor of gardening is deeply intertwined with community building. Just as a garden needs nourishment to thrive, so do communities. Nourishment is about feeding the body, mind, and soul by providing energy for growth. And, community building is not just part of my career; it is woven into my daily life. Working holistically often blurs the lines between the personal and the professional, enriching both. And, I have found that by prioritizing these little acts of nourishment, we can help provide the energy our communities need to thrive.
Here are three quick tips for incorporating nourishment into your community building and outreach events:
1. Have Food for Free
Providing free food is a simple yet powerful way to nourish and attract people to your events. It creates a welcoming atmosphere and encourages belonging, helping to foster a healthy community space.
2. Offer Culturally Relevant Foods
Include foods that reflect the cultural diversity of your community. This not only makes everyone feel seen and valued but also enriches the experience by celebrating different traditions and flavors.
3. Use Local Small Businesses for Catering
Support local economies by sourcing your food and services from small businesses for outreach events. Use resources like the Intentionalist to find and partner with diverse vendors. Using local small businesses can positively impact local economies, strengthen community ties, and foster local pride.
By integrating these practices of nourishment, you can create events that not only bring people together but also that nourish people’s mind, bodies, and souls.
Head of External Affairs and Sustainability, Suntory Beverage and Food GB&I
3wGreat day with a great team. Delighted to be working for a business that enables us to get out and do good.