Joining and Inviting

Picture what it might take to heal the division we’re facing in the US. While the challenges seem immense, there are some powerful solutions that must, in fact, start small. It will take simple acts like rediscovering what we have in common, rekindling relationships with neighbors, and listening with humility to rehumanize one another.

Now picture the places in your community where this type of reconnection is possible. Where can you go to get outside of your bubble, to develop more “weak ties” that lead to stronger fibers in our social fabric?

Joining together with others in your community is the foundation for a stronger democracy — and the power of a simple invitation should not be underestimated.

Start here

Let’s begin with an invitation. Hear from our co-founder and CEO Eric Liu .

Your task this month

Join an activity or club in your community — and even better, invite a friend to come with you. It doesn’t have to be a big formal group, but something that gives you purpose, an outlet to connect, and a sense of belonging. It could be a community garden, a group at your place of worship, or a family activity at the local community center.

Your goal is to become more deeply embedded in your community — however you define it — and develop civic relationships.

When we build our muscle of being together, it helps us imagine, commit to, and work together to make things better off for everyone.

This is the first step to Spark Citizenship — a year-long project to equip more Americans (just like you!) as sparks of civic activity. Explore resources to help you practice the civic skill of joining and inviting and learn more about the Spark Citizenship project →