What makes a community?

San Diego skyline

What makes a community? The dictionary would tell us it is “a group of people living in one particular area or people who consider themselves a social unit because of their shared interests, class, or nationality.” While that may be what a community is, it does not define what a community does for its members. In my experience, being part of a community brings a sense of comfort and belonging. When I moved here over twenty years ago, I didn’t know anyone. Everything was new, different, and downright intimidating. I remember how excited I was when I finally recognized someone I knew in the grocery store. Today, San Diego is the place I call home.

 

SAN DIEGO BUCKET BRIGADE

We launched the San Diego Bucket Brigade to bring together a community of donors to support and strengthen public safety in San Diego. The original Bucket Brigade, co-founded by Ben Franklin in 1736, was the first organized volunteer fire company in the colonies; a group of organized citizens who worked hand-to-hand, coming together as a group to overcome tragedy. This new brigade is a way for each of us to help strengthen public safety for the residents and fire-rescue personnel in San Diego. Learn more about the Bucket Brigade here.

 

STATION OF THE MONTH

We recently started featuring individual fire stations in our newsletter. Although every station is part of the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, each is also part of the community it serves. Each station and has its own personality and vibe making it unique to its neighborhood and respective residents. I hope you enjoy learning more about all our stations and connecting with the men and women who work there to serve San Diego.

 

SO WHAT MAKES A COMMUNITY?

It’s been said that without a sense of caring, there can be no sense of community. Throughout the pandemic, we have learned how important it is to care about each other, and how much stronger San Diegans are when we work together.

I am incredibly grateful to be part of this community and look forward to reconnecting in person soon.

Wendy Robinson
Executive Director
San Diego Fire Rescue Foundation