Inclusion in Rural Communities

Being a part of a community in a meaningful way is one of the most important needs we as people have. Many of us recognize the nostalgic feeling of “small-town USA”: charming downtown main street, the unified sports teams, and the familiar faces at your favorite places. That sense of community and a “simpler way of life” makes those who come to the Monett area understand why it is beloved by those who call it home. Here, people work hard, play hard, and cheer each other on.

While these feelings of belonging are why people love smaller communities, many fear that true inclusion only happens in big cities. The stigma is that smaller cities cannot provide the same level of accessibility, programming or entertainment options.

Here in Monett, that simply is not the case.

Here, inclusion looks a little different.

In many ways, it can be even more meaningful.

So what does inclusion really mean?

Inclusion isn’t just about being somewhere. True inclusion means participating, developing relationships, and being a seen and valued part of a community.

In rural communities, inclusion can come naturally. When someone visits their favorite restaurant regularly or frequents their favorite stores, they become a familiar face; they become a meaningful part of others’ lives. They are not just identified by their different abilities and put into a group. They are known by their name and integrated into the community.

In our Monett division, we constantly strive to ensure individuals have opportunities to be active participants in their community. Through volunteer opportunities such as Meals on Wheels, visiting our community helpers, and supporting local businesses, individuals are not only part of the community, they belong.

Churches in our community welcome individuals in ways that go beyond attendance. Some have been allowed to be involved in the day-to-day operations, sometimes even serving as an “unofficial” member of the security team by helping make sure doors are opened and closed at the appropriate times. One older gentleman started attending the local senior center and developed close friendships with people he met there.

When serving individuals in rural areas, we are intentional about the opportunities we provide. We host events such as dances, art shows, and holiday parties. We also host Discovery Club, where individuals spend time with friends while completing crafts, strengthening cooking skills, and practicing life skills such as money management.

Our Page Turners Book Club meets several times a month, allowing individuals to share their joy of reading and discuss books they have chosen together. Through these clubs and events, individuals build relationships that extend beyond the scheduled activities. They begin setting up times to visit with each other and develop meaningful connections.

Our community also rivals larger cities with entertainment opportunities. Monett offers recreational opportunities such as the YMCA, the local Senior Centers, the library, bowling, swimming, the movie theater, dance therapy, music therapy, art therapy, and much more. We are also located near Springfield and Joplin who offer even more entertainment options for those who don’t mind a short drive.

We also host CampAbility, a summer camp for youth ages 6–21. During this week-long camp, participants maintain important skills that can sometimes be lost over summer break, while also spending time in the community learning, growing, and having fun while creating friendships that can last a lifetime.

Bigger does not always mean better. While larger communities may appear to offer more opportunities on paper, smaller communities such as Monett, Cassville, and Aurora provide something just as valuable: a genuine connection.

When individuals feel welcomed and recognized, growth begins. They develop confidence, a sense of pride and the ability to become active participants in their community rather than just observers.

 

Authored by:

Treanna Dougherty, Director of Monett