Corvallis Parks & Recreation presents ‘Hello There Corvallis,’ an initiative to educate and tackle the challenges of mental health and social isolation in our community by highlighting how Parks & Recreation programs bring people together in inclusive settings, fostering stronger bonds and a sense of belonging.
Did you know?
Volunteering fosters social connection and community!
By uniting individuals around shared goals, volunteering encourages collaboration, expands social networks, promotes fulfillment, builds trust, and contributes to collective well-being.
Tablets, TV and video games are fun,but getting out and making new friends is even MORE FUN!
Fitness classes and sports help children develop social skills, friendships, sportsmanship, confidence, peer support, motivation, and a sense of belonging.
Making friends as an adult can be tough!
Social opportunities can be limited, but joining adult fitness groups, sports leagues, art or dance classes, drumming circles, role-playing games, or theatre workshops offers structured, supportive environments that foster friendships through shared interests in relaxed settings.
Friendship takes time and effort.
It takes 40–60 hours for acquaintanceship to casual friendship, 80–100 hours for deeper friendship, and about 200 hours to establish a close bond, with ongoing effort required for maintenance! Joining a class provides opportunities and time to nurture these connections.
Parks and Recreation helps build community!
By providing shared activities, events and interests, it brings people together in a local, supportive environment. In turn, creates opportunities for residents to connect, interact, and develop friendships while fostering a sense of belonging and pride in their community.
Create connections through shared experiences like swimming!
Knowing how to swim opens up opportunities to participate in recreational activities such as pool and beach outings, water sports, and boating, allowing you to connect with others who enjoy aquatic activities, fostering friendships and social connections.
