By: Cody Carpino, AIA
AIACV Director
I don’t know about you, but I’m sure missing human contact during this pandemic! As we gather more information about COVID-19 and try to rebound from changes to the workplace, it has certainly underscored the importance of relationships between business and community.
This relationship is a two-way road – one cannot survive without the other. While businesses are struggling to stay open, so are the events that bring our communities together. We have witnessed numerous cancellations of large sporting events and festivals, as well as temporary closures of restaurants and other gathering places. Community identity is defined by the businesses that are located and thrive within it—and we have learned new approaches to support and stay connected in the last couple of months
Having close, well-developed connections often pay off in ways one may never have imagined. They are invaluable for working through challenges, sharing joys, and offering a helping hand in times of need. Suppose one wants to organize a fundraiser event – it is unlikely that one person would take on such a large task on their own. A committee may need to be formed, donations gathered, and volunteers found. Having connections within the community and collective common ideas help us all get things done.
Relationships are the foundation for an organized level of change. They may be formed because we genuinely like a person or entity, or because we have a common goal or passion. It takes time to develop trust and when it’s absent, people struggle to function in a cooperative way. The investment of establishing community relationships by way of sponsorships, being active in local groups, and as a mentor or volunteer often provides a direct return with project leads, new customers, increased revenue, and resources. Most importantly, the people in these relationships give true meaning and richness to our work and lives.
The bottom line is people aren’t meant to work in isolation – we thrive when being with others and working together. AIA Central Valley greatly values our relationships and we strive to support those who support us—both our members and our sponsors. Jointly we form a successful AIA Chapter and together we create our own unique community.
Hopefully soon we’ll be able to bring back human contact and continue to build new business and community relationships!