The world today is vastly interconnected and the effects of globalization are seen virtually everywhere, but despite this, I am still a huge supporter of local businesses. Because of that support, many people ask me why I even bother. Why continue shopping local, when there are so many prevalent and big companies that I can find anywhere? I choose to support local businesses because I’m investing in my community. And when you invest in this way, it helps to build a strong and connected community.
I feel that engaging and investing in the community you live in is extremely beneficial and important, because it helps to create a sense of belonging and giving back to something you have come to care about deeply.
Because I have decided to invest in local businesses here in Ypsilanti, like the various restaurants, different art outlets like the Eyrie in Depot Town and many others, I have gotten to know my community much better. I have also discovered hidden gems I wouldn't have known about otherwise and made connections with a wide variety of people.
If you are someone who worries about the quality of your food, shopping local is another great way to support the community and set your mind at ease. Buying local food increases your chances of actually meeting the farmers and getting to ask them a number of questions directly. The Farmers Markets that many small communities have are an awesome opportunity to build these types of relationships.
Making the decision to support local, when you are able to, can make a huge difference for someone trying to make a successful small town business. Your support can increase your community and strengthen the local economy as well as help people achieve their dreams and goals. You can trust the quality of the products and you often become friends with the people you meet.
Investing in local places like these really makes the town feel like home. There is something to be said about walking down the street or into a restaurant and being greeted by the owners because you have become friends. Participating in the community on this level makes for a unique experience while you are living there.
You can support local stuff anywhere, sometimes you just have to be willing to do a bit of hunting and looking. Here in Ypsilanti, it's rather easy to support local. Take a walk down Cross Street, though Depot Town or into Downtown on Michigan Avenue and you will come across a huge variety of locally run businesses.
Take the chance and invest in a unique small town community while you can. It’s always an adventure to find the fun individual places in the community and that is something that you can do no matter where you may be living.
