What Is a Community?

Sixth graders volunteering at the Food Bank. Contributed photo

By Kendrick Kansana Jr., Kualapuʻu 6th Grader

What is a community? Many people think a community is just a group of people. But a community is a group of people who help out each other.

First, a healthy community is a group of people who help each other strive by sharing resources. They also notice others’ needs and listen to each other. They also keep good relationships between each other, so they can stay a community.

Why is it important to participate in a community? One reason is because what goes around comes around. If you don’t help out with community events, then the community might not help you when you need help. Another reason why we should participate in a community is because there will be a more pleasant and positive community. By participating and helping each other we can build a better relationship with everyone. 

My last reason is because we share better connections. So, when you need something, I can give it to you, and when I need something, you can give it to me.

Finally, there are countless ways to participate in your community. One example is helping out the elderly do things. When people get older, they start moving more slowly, and they start having a hard time doing everyday things. Another example is picking up trash. In a good community, even the smallest things help no matter what it is. 

Another example is by donating food. When my classmates and I went to help with the food bank, we asked all the adults why they help out with the food bank. Aunty Mei told me “When I was younger, me and my family didn’t have food and we were helped. Now, I want to give back to the community.” 

So, that’s why you should help out others; because one day you might be in need and there will be others who will help you. 

Another example is volunteering to help build houses, because the roof you live under was built by others. One more way is by looking for ways to help others, not just yourself. So even by doing the smallest things matters a lot to people. Like if you see someone’s bike tire flat, you could always ask if you can pump up their tire for them.

A community is a group of people that helps out each other, participates in being in a community, and keeps each other healthy. One wish I have for the Molokai community is to see more people helping the ʻāina and building stronger relationships with each other.