The Heart of Community: Why Local Businesses Matter More Than Ever

Former Senator Ben Sasse has been one of my favorite political voices of the last 20 years - not always because of his policy positions, but because he's one of the few leaders who truly understands what we're losing as our community institutions fade away. As someone deeply invested in my community, his message about the "hollowing out of mediating institutions" hits close to home.

You see, Sasse gets something fundamental: the spaces between government and individual matter deeply. Those spaces - filled by local businesses, community groups, houses of worship, and nonprofits - are where real community happens. They're where we build relationships, develop character, and create the shared experiences that make a place feel like home.

As I think about our own community here in Upper Bucks, I see both challenges and hope. Sure, we've watched as some longtime local businesses have closed their doors, replaced by big box stores or online retailers. We've seen how smartphones and social media can make us feel connected while actually keeping us apart. But I've also witnessed the incredible resilience of our local institutions and their power to bring people together.

Take our local coffee shops and diners. They're not just places to grab a quick bite - they're where deals get made, friendships form, and community problems get solved over a cup of coffee. Our family-owned hardware stores don't just sell tools - they provide expertise and personalized service you'll never find at a big box store. And our local nonprofits understand our community's needs in a way no national organization ever could.

But here's the thing Sasse helped me understand: these institutions don't just happen. They need our intentional support and engagement. When we choose to shop at a local store instead of clicking "buy now," we're not just making a purchase - we're investing in our community's social fabric. When we volunteer with local organizations, we're not just giving time - we're building the relationships that make our community stronger.

The truth is, we're living through a massive shift in how communities function. The rise of online commerce, remote work, and digital entertainment has changed how we interact with each other. But our need for real, human connection hasn't changed. If anything, it's grown stronger.

That's why I believe supporting local businesses and community organizations isn't just about economics - it's about preserving the places where real community happens. It's about maintaining the spaces where young people learn work ethic, where neighbors help neighbors, and where shared traditions get passed down.

Look, I'm not suggesting we can or should turn back the clock. Change is inevitable. But we can be intentional about preserving what matters most. We can choose to support the institutions that make our community unique. We can work to strengthen the connections that make Upper Bucks not just a place to live, but a true community.

Sasse often talks about how the most important things in life aren't political things. They're the relationships we build, the traditions we maintain, and the communities we create together. As someone working to help local organizations tell their stories and build stronger connections, I couldn't agree more.

That's why I believe in the power of small businesses and local nonprofits. They're not just economic entities - they're the heart of our community. And in a world that increasingly pushes us toward isolation and disconnection, they matter now more than ever.

What local businesses and organizations do you see making a difference in our community? I'd love to hear your thoughts and stories about the places and institutions that make Upper Bucks special.