Building Your Homesteading Community: You’re Not Alone in This Journey

The homesteading community has gotten so big, and it can be helpful to you to building your homesteading community. When I first started out, I felt like I was on my own little island of crazy. I mean, who else was obsessed with soil pH and chicken coop designs, right? Turns out, a whole lot of folks!

Let me tell you, as an introvert this was hard for me. But even for introverts, finding your tribe can make all the difference in your homesteading journey. Let’s take a look, at the multiple different ways anyone, including us introverts, can connect with like-minded people and build a support network that’ll keep you inspired, informed, and sometimes just plain entertained.

Finding Local Resources and Groups

1. Farmers Markets: These aren’t just for buying produce! Chat with the vendors – many are small-scale farmers happy to share their knowledge. I’ve learned some of my best gardening tricks while picking out my vegetables.
2. County Extension Offices: These are goldmines of local information. They often offer workshops and can connect you with Master Gardeners in your area.
3. Local Garden Clubs: Don’t let the name fool you – these groups often cover a wide range of homesteading topics. Plus, plant swaps. Need I say more?
4. Community Gardens: Even if you have your own space, these are great for meeting other growers and exchanging tips.
5. Feed Stores: Yep, the place where you buy chicken feed can be a hub of homesteading activity. Not to mention most have a bulletin board with useful information like news, things for sale, and upcoming events. Not to mention you’re likely somewhere with like-minded individuals, so strike up a conversation – you never know what you might learn.
6. Local Homesteading or Sustainability Groups: Check Facebook or Meetup for groups in your area. If there isn’t one, why not start it yourself?

Online Communities

1. Facebook Groups: There’s a group for everything. I’m part of several that focus on gardening in hot climates, and the advice has been invaluable.
2. Reddit: r/homestead and r/gardening are two of my favorites. The community is supportive and there’s always someone willing to help troubleshoot.
3. Instagram: Follow hashtags like #homesteading, #urbanhomestead, or #growyourownfood. It’s a great way to get inspired and connect with others.
4. YouTube: There are countless homesteading channels out there. Find a few you resonate with and engage in the comments section. Though it is a work in progress you can find mine HERE.
5. Forums: Old school but gold. Sites like permies.com or homesteadingtoday.com have active communities full of knowledge.

Building Relationships in Your Homesteading Community

Remember, community building is a two-way street. Here are some tips I’ve learned along the way:

1. Share Your Knowledge: Even if you’re a beginner, you might know something others don’t. Don’t be shy about sharing your experiences – good and bad!
2. Ask Questions: Most homesteaders love to share what they know. Your curiosity might just make someone’s day.
3. Offer Help: See someone asking for assistance with a project? If you can lend a hand, do it. Homesteading karma is real, folks.
4. Be Consistent: Regular participation in groups or events helps build stronger connections.
5. Stay Open-Minded: There’s more than one way to homestead. Be open to different perspectives and methods.
6. Organize Get-Togethers: Whether it’s a seed swap, a canning party, or just a potluck, bringing people together in person can cement online connections. My favorite was inviting people over to paint rocks plant/tree tags. Since the one thing I can consistently grow very well is rocks (not even kidding, I swear they just pop up out of nowhere!!!)

The Value of Building a Homesteading Community

Let me tell you, having a homesteading community has saved my bacon more than once. When my first batch of pickles turned out mushy, it was an online friend who figured out I was missing “the secret ingredient.”

But it’s more than just problem-solving. It’s about sharing in the joys, commiserating over the failures, and feeling like you’re part of something bigger. Because at its heart, homesteading is about connection – to the land, to our food, and to each other.

So, don’t be shy! Reach out, connect, and start building your homesteading community today. Trust me, your journey will be all the richer for it.

Deanna

P.S. Remember, even the most experienced homesteaders were beginners once. Your questions and experiences are valuable – don’t hesitate to share them!

What about you? How have you connected with other homesteaders? Any favorite resources or communities you’d like to share? Drop them in the comments – let’s keep growing this beautiful, crazy, chicken-loving community of ours!

For more Homesteading information check out our Homesteading Page HERE!