The Need to Belong & The Power of Groups

“I long, as does every human being, to be at home wherever I find myself.” — Maya Angelou

Belongingness is the human emotional need to be an accepted member of a group. Whether it’s a group of friends, family members, or the Brooklyn United Drumline tapping out syncopated rhythms on Fulton Street, humans have a strong desire to belong and be a part of something greater than themselves. Within the past two months, I’ve taken notice of how people have gained strength, solidarity, and a sense of belonging through their participation in groups.

On March 17^th 2015, I volunteered at the Sober St. Patrick’s Day celebration at Cathedral High School. Bill Reilly created this annual event “to reclaim the true spirit of the day and to change the perception and experience of what St. Patrick’s Day can be.” Through story-telling, song, and dance, this event united individuals looking to celebrate Irish culture in a safe, alcohol-free setting. Those recovering from the disease of addiction could certainly feel a sense of belonging, which is vital in sustaining positive change.

According to my calendar, March 20^th 2015 marked the first day of spring, however it certainly did not feel like it! The Family Center’s Legal Coordinator, Jonathan Riedel, and I trudged through snow to visit St. Paul Community Baptist Church, home of the The Inner Circle of Grandparents. I was very inspired by the dedication of these grandparents who meet on a regular basis in order to share their strength and resources. It was easy to tell that the grandparents provided valuable support to one another and genuinely enjoyed one another’s company (fierce bowling competitions aside).

On Friday, April 17^th 2015, The Family Center was invited to participate in the 4^th Annual Father’s Resource Fair in the Bronx. Approximately 200 people were in attendance, including staff members from NYC Administration for Children’s Services, New York City Housing Authority, and other community-based organizations. Without proper guidance and support, it’s easy for fathers to become frustrated and lost within multiple systems. Although hitesite.com is an excellent way of finding resources in New York City, there is no replacement for face-to-face collaboration with other service providers.

Groups are also a useful tool for maintaining healthy changes. After seeing some of my colleagues run during the New York City Marathon, I started to run recreationally in November 2014. In the beginning, I only wanted to run alone, partially due to my sloth-like pace. After participating in the JFK Runaway Run on April 19^th 2015, I’ve realized another distinct advantage of groups: accountability. Running in a group with my colleagues gave me the motivational boost to help me reach a personal record. Plus, these days I can run at a respectable, tortoise-like pace.

Everyone deserves to be part of something. If you or a loved one is interested in learning more about the different services or support groups at The Family Center, feel free to reach out to me at 718-230-1379, ext. 182.

-Julian Ho
B-WEL Coordinator

B-WEL is Brooklyn Women Enjoying Life, which is funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and aimed at reducing Brooklyn women’s risk for substance abuse and HIV