Dorothy nailed it when she said, “There's no place like home.” Your community is a great starting place to make friends and take an active interest in all the culture, businesses, and activities that are unique to where you call home. But best of all, even if you've lived in the same place for years, there may still be a world of experiences to discover. Maybe you've been to every local school fair and town hall meeting, but how about starting your own philosophy salon, subscribing to your local Community Supported Agriculture program, or organizing your own block party?

There are more opportunities than ever to connect with old friends, find new ones that share your interests, and experiment with unexpected ways to volunteer and give back to your neighborhood. The GOOD Guide to Your Community has stories and tips to help make your community everything you dreamed it would be, no clicking ruby heels required.

Illustrations by Gregory Hubacek