Health is influenced not only by access to medical care and material resources, but also by the relationships people have with one another and with their communities. In Flint and Genesee County, neighborhood groups, community centers, faith-based organizations, libraries, schools, local events, volunteer opportunities, and other gathering places help residents build relationships, exchange information, find support, and participate in community life.
Community Connection, Centers, & Involvement
- Why Community Connection Matters: Researchers sometimes use the term social capital to describe the networks, relationships, trust, and shared connections that exist within a community.Strong social connections can influence health and well-being in many ways. They can help residents learn about services and opportunities, receive support during difficult times, feel a stronger sense of belonging, and participate in decisions that affect their neighborhoods.Community involvement can also build collective capacity; the ability of residents and organizations to work together around shared concerns and goals.
At the same time, opportunities for connection are not always distributed equally. Transportation, time, accessibility, income, neighborhood conditions, and the availability of welcoming community spaces can all affect people’s ability to participate.
- Explore Social Capital: The Social Capital Atlas provides information about social connections and community networks across the United States and can help illustrate how relationships and social networks vary between communities. Explore the Social Capital Atlas here.
Continue Exploring Health Equity in Flint
Health is influenced by many interconnected factors. Explore other areas within the interactive Flint community page to learn more about housing, transportation, food access, environmental conditions, community resources, and other conditions that shape health. Visit the Community page here.
