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Cassandra Di Lalla (she/her/hers), Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

When I see a social media post advertising an upcoming event or any of my local stores handing out flyers, or even when I hear by word of mouth from others about an event, I’m always intrigued and I always ensure to make a note of it right away. I love going to markets, whether with my mom, my fiancé or both! As a crafter/maker and vendor myself, I try to support local and small businesses as often as I can, because I truly understand what it’s like to have to compete with big box stores. And while it’s not always possible to do such a thing — taking into account someone’s budget, preferences, what they’re looking for or what they need in that moment — you can still support local businesses by following their social media channels and sharing their information with others.

I am the kind of person who not only enjoys, but very much appreciates handmade items, cultural experiences, learning new things and just walking around freely to check things out for myself. All four of those things are done with one thing in common, and that’s LOVE. That handmade scarf you picked up? Every fibre of fabric and every stitch was done with love. The different cultural experiences you had through food, traditions, music or any other medium were filled with love and pride. Learning new things? The person taking the time to teach you felt inspired by your interest and took it upon themselves to willingly share their knowledge with you. Oh, and walking around freely and at your pace means you’re also taking the time to show love and care to your surroundings or simply giving yourself love by doing the things you enjoy most. Do you know what I love about love? Love is known and shown globally, no matter the language, and no matter the age — love is truly universal. Love embodies kindness, care, compassion, patience and so much more.

Community pride is forward thinking; it means giving a helping hand whenever possible and coming together as one to maintain that small, cozy feeling along community members. Community pride means working together, because the end goal is the same. These local markets, festivals and events always seem to put people in a great mood, or at least the atmosphere usually feels very lively. Why? Because there’s music, there’s food, there are different personalities and characteristics among the crowds — there’s just so much variety all around.

Do you know what else? Networking, employment or volunteer opportunities, new business announcements, prizes, contests, etc . . . There are so many neat things that you can discover by attending these events in your community or a nearby one. There may be a tent set up outside for a specific organization looking for potential employees or volunteers, and what better way to find out more information than to be present and ask questions! By attending these local events, you’ll get VIP access to the grand opening of new businesses in the area too! Many vendors also have giveaways, offer coupons or vouchers to use on your purchases, or hold draws. These events are fun-filled and they’re a great way to take part in community building initiatives!

I also find that with the tighter-knit communities or smaller towns, you feel more at home. I feel this statement holds true because when you attend an event in your community or in the next town over, you’ll notice there are a lot of ma and pa shops in the area, whether it be a restaurant or a retail store, so you’re sure to find a family-owned and operated business at some point along your walk or ride through town. This also means that these small businesses or family owned businesses rely heavily on each other, and the support of locals or even visitors. This goes to show how important and how essential it is to continue supporting local whenever possible.

How refreshing is it to know that people in your town know you on a first name basis, or at least remember you and ask how your day’s been? Kindness goes a long way, and these community initiatives are a very powerful and very impactful movement! 

So, the next time you see or hear of an event taking place nearby, make sure you do what you can to help other community members and the lovely local people who might end up helping you in return one day! It’s a win-win, and you’re making the world just that much greater!

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Cassandra Di Lalla lives life purposefully. She enjoys reading, writing and mental health initiatives. She’s an animal lover for life and an innovative individual always finding new ways to create.