From a digital revolution to a gentle community revolution
The world may feel increasingly digital and yes, guilty as charged, we’re all probably “chronically online”. But the surprising news is, there is a rise in community and ‘neighborism’ all over the world. It seems that despite the digital immersion, we are all seeking interactions that feel more human than ever.
Communities aren’t built in data, statistics — they’re built in the everyday spaces where we come together with shared values and common interests to swap both stories and support. Sociologist Ray Oldenburg coined the term ‘third place’ to describe these social anchors — cafes, parks, community centers — arguing they are the heart of community vitality. For us at TheOneHourProject, we’re seeing third spaces and communities come to life not just in physical spaces but in advocacy. It’s community building through shared values and challenges that shape up and transform into action and impact in real life.
In Singapore for example, there are over 2,400 registered charities, and recent estimates point to nearly 240 active grassroots or ‘ground-up’ organisations stepping in to meet emerging community needs across social welfare, mental health, and neighbourhood inclusion.
Across the Philippines, analysts estimate as many as 60,000 NGOs, including 10,000+ people’s organisations that are inherently rooted in specific towns, barangays, and community constituencies — a testament to the country’s rich tradition of community-driven action.
This month we take a closer look at how ‘community’ is building the future through the lens of volunteerism. We take a look at the groundups that are taking on active roles to address shared concerns and challenges because they want to make their communities better. We’re talking to volunteers and how and why they made the choice to contribute to a cause that felt important, that felt bigger than them.
The future is community-built and we’re excited to get to know – and be a part – of those building a future that has space for all of us.
