Dana Shadid on Ways to Build Social Capitol

From Dana Shadid, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Community Institute:

With the hard work of volunteers all across the state, Oklahoma has experienced a remarkable centennial year. Now it is time to take that passion and enthusiasm and focus on the future. What are your plans for 2008? Take a moment and think about it. It doesn’t have to be something huge – just something that can make a difference in you life, someone else’s life or the life of your community. Now is a great time to think of ways to build social capitol in your community. Here are just a few suggestions:


1. Eat breakfast at a local gathering spot every Saturday.
2. Invite local government officials to speak at your workplace.
3. Collect oral histories from your parents and other older community residents.
4. Form a “tools cooperative” with neighbors and share ladders, power saws, snow shovels, etc.
5. Volunteer for the next community clean up.
6. Take an art class with your family or friends.

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