Building community

Having a community to be a part of is human nature. We seek those that have the same interests as us. We become connected and create new bonds, ideas and projects to move society forward. Communities are also support systems where we can help build people up and pick people up during tough times. Community has been such a large focus for Devils 4 Devils because we are striving to build better communities not only at ASU but in Tempe, Maricopa County, Arizona, America and the entire world. When we learn what kinds of things help build positive communities, we are able to spread that to the other communities we are a part of. There are so many different ways to create community, but here are a few that I have found are vital in my everyday life.

1. Food
   We need it to live. It’s vital. It is the thing we all have in common. We can all come together around food, especially free food. That is why, if you have ever hosted a student organization meeting, people usually come when there is food. Food is also a way to invite people in to have a taste of the culture that you are a part of. I’ve fallen in love with Mediterranean food because my friends from other cultures invited me in to try the food they love. Whether it is a barbeque, picnic, dinner, lunch, breakfast, you name it, making food available will always help build communities.
2. Games
   People have been playing games to create community for centuries. No matter what game you're playing, this is always a good way to invite people in. I have learned so many games over the years that I have been able to share with others. Card games are my personal favorite, but this past summer I learned how to play dominoes with my coworkers in our down time and lunch breaks, and it has easily become one of my favorite games. Games allow us to have fun and poke at our competitive nature. 
3. Storytelling
   I think storytelling is so important to building community. When we swap stories, we help each other expand on new ideas and learn more about one another. Stories can make us laugh, think deeper, ask questions and come closer together. There are few things I love more than swapping stories with friends that I’m trying to get to know better. Hearing about a funny story from your childhood is a great way to let someone into your world of how you were raised, as well as giving them an idea of what your sense of humor is like. 

These are just a few elements that I think are important to building community. There are many other ways we can bring our communities closer, but it is important to remember that we should lean into those elements that are inviting and encourage us to help others. 

Mason Ford, Sports Law and Business, MSLB ‘21, ASU Counseling Services management intern, Devils 4 Devils ASU student organization president