The Power of Commune in Community: A Blueprint for Connection

As the Executive Director of the Mills County Chamber of Commerce, I’ve had the privilege of starting to work closely with local businesses, residents and leaders since stepping into this role in October.

In the process, I’ve uncovered something deeply profound: the word community holds within it a powerful reminder. Hidden in plain sight is commune—derived from the Latin “communis,” meaning to share, to make common. This is not just a linguistic tidbit; it’s a guiding principle for our lives and our work.

Community is not just a group of people; it is a living, breathing organism that thrives when we actively participate. To create a community we love, we must commune—we must come together to share our ideas, our resources and our aspirations.

As I’ve had the honor of learning about the passionate individuals and businesses in our region, I’ve seen the true essence of community in action. In the work we do—whether in local government, economic development or business—our success depends on our willingness to show up, connect and support one another.

As we approach 2025, let’s imagine a future where:

• Neighbors know each other’s names and stories—and we support each other in both personal and professional growth.
• Local businesses flourish through shared community support and cross-sector collaboration.
• Regional cooperation fosters shared prosperity for all.
• Innovation and tradition coexist, fueling long-term success.
• Every voice is heard and every individual is valued.

Helen Keller once wisely said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” The vision of thriving communities we all dream of depends on our willingness to commune—to come together and share our experiences, our challenges and our dreams. In an increasingly digital world, it’s more crucial than ever to build communities that go beyond the virtual, creating tangible connections where we support and uplift one another.

So, how do we actively create the communities we desire?

1. Attend local government meetings—your presence shapes tomorrow’s decisions and community priorities.
2. Support events in neighboring towns—regional collaboration strengthens us all.
3. Join a local business group or volunteer organization—your involvement directly impacts our collective success.
4. Patronize local businesses across your region—investing in local commerce fosters long-term economic health.
5. Engage in conversations about the future of your community—what we create today will shape tomorrow.

Mahatma Gandhi’s words ring true: “The future depends on what you do today.” Our community's future is built on the actions we take in the present. Strong communities don’t happen by chance—they are created intentionally, through acts of communion, cooperation and connection.

Let’s build communities where:

• Every generation feels valued and heard.
• Economic prosperity lifts all of us, regardless of background or industry.
• Cultural differences are celebrated as our strength.
• Environmental sustainability is embraced by all.
• Innovation and compassion are seamlessly integrated.

Community is not something that simply happens to us—it is something we actively create together. Archbishop Desmond Tutu beautifully stated, “My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.”

The real question isn’t whether you're part of a community—you are.

The question is: How will you help shape your community’s future? None of us is meant to thrive alone. We are meant to grow, share and build together.

As we embrace the truth that to create community, we must actively commune, we unlock the potential for transformation, not just for today but for generations to come.

So, what will you do today to strengthen your community and shape its future? The steps you take, the conversations you start and the actions you lead will create a lasting legacy.

As Margaret Mead once said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

In 2025 and beyond, let’s be the ones who change our communities for the better—one connection, one conversation and one act of communion at a time.

Let’s get started today.

For more personal and professional growth insights, join me in my LinkedIn newsletter, The Fulfilled Life, where we explore empowering life and leadership strategies that help you enhance the quality of your pursuits both personally and professionally. Let’s grow and thrive together!

With Gratitude,

Gitzy