Building Your Community this Fall
Building a solid community is more relevant than ever in today’s world. As families, we thrive in community—where we can support, learn from, and encourage one another. While raising children can be both rewarding and challenging, having a network of like-minded families around us can make the journey more joyful and meaningful. These connections can offer companionship, shared values, and a sense of belonging that enriches our family life.
Children also benefit immensely from being part of a larger community. When they see their family’s values mirrored in other households, it reinforces the lessons they’re learning at home. Friendships with other children who are raised in similar environments help them build a strong sense of identity and belonging.
One of the best ways to build and strengthen these relationships is by taking the initiative to bring people together. Hosting a fall gathering is a perfect opportunity to connect with other families, share traditions, and create lasting bonds.
Hosting a Fall Gathering to Bring People Together
Fall is the perfect season for community-building. The cooler weather and cozy atmosphere provide a wonderful backdrop for bringing people together. Whether it’s a casual potluck, a backyard bonfire, or an outdoor autumn-themed party, gathering families together fosters friendship and support.
Here are some ideas for a successful fall gathering with other families:
Plan Family-Friendly Activities: Organize simple activities for the kids, such as going apple picking or decorating pumpkins. This is fun for both children and adults, and provides a relaxed environment in which families can get to know one another better.
Create a Welcoming Space: Invite families into your home or yard with seasonal decorations like pumpkins, candles, and warm blankets. Hosting a movie night is a great way to provide an activity for the kids as well as an opportunity for the adults to chat and connect.
Encourage a Shared Meal: Invite a few families over and have each family bring a favorite dish. When everyone contributes, it not only takes the stress off of the family hosting, but also makes the gathering a more communal experience.
Foster Meaningful Conversations: As you gather together, encourage discussions that go beyond the surface. Talk about family traditions, experiences, or parenting challenges. This helps deepen connections and allows families to learn from each other.
Create a New Tradition: Consider making your fall gathering an annual event. By coming together regularly, families can grow closer over time and create lasting memories.
Building a Strong Community for the Future
As you open your home and heart to other families, you’re actively creating a community that can support you and your children for years to come. Building these relationships takes time, but the rewards are immeasurable. By hosting a fall gathering, you set the stage for families to come together, share experiences, and develop friendships rooted in mutual respect and shared values.
Ultimately, it takes a village to raise a family, and finding that community begins with taking the first step to connect with other families. By fostering community in small but meaningful ways—like hosting a fall gathering—you’re helping create a supportive environment where both parents and children can thrive.
Easy & Delicious Apple Crisp
This apple crisp is absolutely perfect for fall! Transform your fresh-picked apples with this simple but delicious dessert your whole family will love.
Filling:
10-12 green apples, peeled and chopped (about 1 inch chunks)
¼ c. orange juice
¼ c. brown sugar
½ tsp. cinnamon
Topping:
¼ c. brown sugar
½ c. sugar
2 c. flour
¾ c. butter (melted)
½ tsp. salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. Mix filling ingredients in a large bowl. Grease a 9x13 pan and pour in the filling, spreading evenly.
3. Mix the topping ingredients. Crumble over the filling.
4. Bake for 45-60 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream and enjoy!
Family Dinner Matters Seminar in PA
Family dinner is far more important than many of us may realize. It is essential that families take the time to connect each day, and family dinner is the perfect opportunity to do so.
On October 10th, Art of Living for Women in Pennsylvania will explore this topic. They will learn how to plan ahead so that meals can be enjoyed and how to set a beautiful table.
The seminar will take place at Grandevue Study Center in Pittsburgh from 6:30-9:00 pm. Click here to register!
Check out this article to learn about the impact of family dinner on teens.
