Creating Community: Finding my People in Small Town Arkansas

What happens when neighbors connect? The community grows.

By Quendy Medlin; Photographs by Brian Chilson

Have you ever felt alone in a crowd? Misunderstood or different from those around you? Wondered if anyone else thought the way you do? I’ve experienced that many times in my life. In fact, I still do on occasion. Being a bit of a loner and an only child, I’ve often accepted this feeling as part of who I am. Many times it’s fine, but sometimes it’s a paralyzing state—filled with anxiety and fear. Recently, I’ve come to realize that this sentiment is something we’ve all experienced at one time or another. The key to overcoming the fear is simple: find like-minded people. They are out there, even if you can’t see them right away. They are often feeling the same isolation as you.

Last year, I found myself overwhelmed by a sense of helplessness and depression. The events unfolding across our country, our state, and within our local community were difficult to watch. I assumed that in my small town of England, Arkansas, few shared my views, as it seemed the majority of voices around me were loudly stating different opinions or worse, apathy. Little did I know, many others in my community were quiet, feeling just as uncertain and alone as I was.

It Started Online and Became Real Life

That all changed, thanks to Bob, a friend from “back in the day.” He helped pull me from that isolation by starting a private Facebook group for people connected to England. The group quickly grew to nearly 150 members. For someone who feels secluded, discovering that so many others share similar thoughts and values is an incredible revelation! It’s also powerful: I am not alone. 

From Sharing Memes to Raising Money

What started as a small online space to share memes and news has transformed into a true community. We’ve created a place of support and encouragement, where people share their thoughts, insights, and perspectives. What began as a small group has grown—and we’re working. We are expanding to include more neighborhood outreach and direct community support.

Some of the initiatives we’re discussing include a blood donation drive, supporting our local school district, launching a “letters to the editor” campaign, and helping the newly established England Library Friends (ELF). We’ve also begun “branding” our group with stickers and signs, fostering a greater sense of unity.

One of our proudest achievements so far is a fundraising project for England’s busy food closet, Christ’s Corner. We set a goal to raise $1,500, which will cover a month of basic supplies for the closet. We asked for help from our Facebook group, and within a little over a month, we reached our goal and presented the check. 

In addition, we’ve worked on grassroots campaigns, including a “get out the vote” initiative. After one sign went up, others followed, and soon, we had signs all over town—where none had been before. The momentum we created not only increased visibility and encouraged our neighbors to vote, but most important? It brought people together and we saw more support. The impact was clear: We are so much stronger together.

New Friends and Less Fear

Our group has fostered new friendships and camaraderie. We’ve had the chance to meet with a state representative for a lively discussion on how everyday people can make a difference. At our second meeting our number grew, and we discussed our goals and mission. We are now scheduling monthly meetings and hope to continue to grow as we celebrate our victories and discuss new, ambitious projects that will benefit our community. We’re inviting legislators and community leaders to speak on key issues that affect our state and how “we the people” can contribute to positive change.

I am no longer paralyzed by fear. What once felt like a hopeless and lonely situation has transformed into something empowering and I’m emboldened by the strength of our group. Thanks to all who have worked tirelessly to grow our group, I feel like I am part of something bigger—a community that not only shares my values but is actively making a difference.

How to Find Your Own Group & Other Helpful Hints

1. Name a thing you care about. (Libraries? Butterflies? Arkansas Strawberries?)
2. Claim a visible space. (Facebook group, coffee shop bulletin board, a front porch.)
3. Do one small thing together! (Just sharing an article about your shared interest counts. Picking up litter is an easy group activity.)

Finding community starts wherever you are. Remember:

• Your people are already there—they’re just waiting for permission to speak up.
• Small actions create big change—our donations to the food pantry strengthens our community. 
• Rural communities have unique power—when you step forward, everyone notices!

Photography by Brian Chilson.

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