Obviously this is a broad and controversial topic (especially since I’m asking about both on and offline) but as individualism and isolationism seems to be increasing in the western world, I’m wondering what can be done and what others have done to counteract this trend.
Edit: Obviously, there’s broad things like participating in hobby groups or being nice to neighbours, but I’m especially interested in discussion of specifics, such as ways to set up these groups, organisational structures, or ways to expand connections from a hobby group beyond just the hobby.
Volunteering is a good place to start. Most places have community centers and food pantries and such that are always looking for volunteers. This puts you directly in line for helping your community members.
Introduce yourself to your neighbors. Do the neighborly things like bring their bins in for them, check in with them when there’s a storm, etc. Learn their names. Strike up conversation when you see them outside.
Join local sports or running club or something similar. Getting yourself physically in places with others and being open to befriending people is the quickest way to immerse yourself in community building.