Turning What You Love into What You Do
By Patrick O’Connor
The March segment of “Turning What You Love into What You Do” introduced the term social capital, which is the result of people doing things to support the overall health of their communities. From spring cleanups to collecting food for the needy, communities thrive because of the social capital citizens contribute. Millions of retiring Boomers can have an impact on the social capital of their communities.
Social capital is a set of shared values and resources that allow individuals to work together in a group to effectively achieve a common purpose. It is commonly used to describe members of a community who work together to live harmoniously and in unison. Social capital includes charity, philanthropy, and the many types of volunteering people do. Most charitable giving (81%) is done by individuals. Foundations (14%) and corporations (5%) contribute the rest.
There are hundreds of social capital examples. From worldwide service groups such as Rotary International (1.4 million members) to local citizens, social capital is an essential part of a thriving community. Two local examples represent the many ways community members contribute social capital.
Matt Keffer
Matt Keffer is editor/photographer for “AroundKent” magazine. He creates social capital by capturing positive events in Kent. He is often seen strolling around town, taking dozens of photographs of all sorts of happenings in Kent. These events are part of the social capital of the community.
Matt is somewhat of a photo historian, chronicling the many good things good people do to make their community a thriving place. Matt loves music, dogs, art, and the people who make Kent a great place to live. Activities to combatt hunger are especially close to his heart. Photos from the AroundKent website celebrate the social capital of his community.
The Cleveland Field Kitchen
The Cleveland Field Kitchen, based in Novelty, is a collection of talented, hard-working people who believe in the power of gathering. They regard the table as a place of kinship and unity. One of their social capital initiatives is their NOMAD dinner program, which is part of their Field Kitchen Feeds non-profit. They partner with local farmers to provide proteins, produce, and foliage for the dinners. Portions of the proceeds from these dinners, as well as external donations help fund the Field Kitchen Feeds (FKF) mission. In June, July and August, FKF will be providing weekly, healthy meals to be dispersed to Geauga County families in need. More information is available at clevelandfieldkitchen.com.
Get Involved
Everyone benefits from social capital. And it’s so easy to get involved. A quick look around any community will reveal a wide array of social capital activities. Just look at all the good things going on and join in.
Marilyn Sessions
As I near retirement I see my social capital changing in the manner it is used. I no longer focus so much on “new” connections but in sharing connections. In my 50+ year career I am now able to “connect the dots” with those asking “who should I talk to about….” “how do I….” and am able to guide connections to better our communities. One of the questions I get frequently now is “this might sound like a weird question but…..” and there is VERY often and answer that can guide people to the right area. My love for my community makes it easy to put people and events together to better serve a good outcome.
Pat
A wonderful twist on social capital Marilyn. I guess even resources mature. May I use your comments in future work?
Best as always.
Pat
Matt
Great observations Pat. Excellent read. It’s good to see you’re getting top notch subjects to write about nowadays:) I feel like you just touched the surface here. Looks like another book you need to write.
Pat O’Connor
Thanks Matt. Good subjects shall continue. Would love to consider a book on this topic. I think we really need to celebrate all the good things good people do. Maybe help to combat all the flood of negativity we see and hear.
Pat