In my role as the basic needs coordinator overseeing the University of Iowa Food Pantry, the concept of self-care is a frequent topic of contemplation. The self-care movement has educated us on the importance of nurturing our individual well-being. It encompasses a range of practices, from indulgent treats to essential boundary-setting and emotional self-awareness. Encouraging self-care among individuals is admirable, and it's crucial to recognize that self-care, in isolation, can often remain an aspiration rather than a consistent practice. It's in the embrace of community care that self-care becomes sustainable and transformative.

The roots of the self-care movement run deep, with Black women playing a central role in its inception. Their tireless efforts were instrumental in challenging oppressive hierarchies rooted in race, gender, class, and sexual orientation. They championed the establishment of free community health clinics and social-service programs. They recognized that true well-being extends far beyond individual actions. Audre Lorde, an influential figure in this movement, invited us to see the self as inherently connected to the community, thereby redirecting our focus toward the broader concept of community care.

Community care transcends the realm of individual acts of kindness. It embodies a culture of empathy, solidarity, and mutual support within our neighborhoods, our academic institutions like the UI and our social circles. It underscores the interconnectedness between individual well-being and the well-being of all community members. An example of this interconnectedness can be found in our own student body. In 2016, a group of students recognized the detrimental effects of food insecurity on their peers and took proactive steps to address it. Their initiative led to the establishment of the Iowa Food Pantry, a service that benefits students, faculty, and staff. Choosing to practice self-care with the intention of promoting community care represents a paradigm shift. It entails a transition from mere self-preservation to becoming advocates for the liberation and empowerment of our entire community. In a world where systemic issues often underlie many of the challenges we face, we collectively bear a social responsibility to support one another in our efforts to address these problems. When those we work and live with become supports, each day becomes more fulfilling and our community thrives.

Here are some practical ideas to actively engage in community care:

1. Active listening: Dedicate time to genuinely listen to others without judgment, fostering bonds within your community through understanding.

2. Offer support without prompting: Anticipate the needs of others and provide help proactively, without waiting for requests.

3. Engage in acts of kindness: Simple gestures, such as assisting a neighbor with groceries or offering childcare to a friend.

4. Participate in community projects: Involvement in community projects, such as volunteering at the Food Pantry, or supporting grassroots initiatives fosters a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

5. Create supportive spaces: Establish environments where individuals feel safe sharing thoughts, feelings, and struggles, promoting open communication and judgment-free dialogue.

6. Share resources: Offer both tangible (food, clothing, household items) and intangible (knowledge, skills, connections) resources to those in need.

7. Support collaborative decision-making: Involve community members in decisions affecting their lives, promoting a sense of ownership and empowerment.

8. Organize mutual aid networks: Establish or join mutual aid networks to provide and receive support during times of need, such as natural disasters or emergencies.

9. Cultivate empathy: Encourage empathy by sharing personal stories and experiences, facilitating better understanding among community members.

10. Celebrate achievements: Recognize and celebrate the contributions and successes of community members, fostering a positive atmosphere.

11. Lead by example: Demonstrate community care in your actions and interactions, inspiring others to follow suit.

12. Prioritize well-being: Challenge the notion that productivity always trumps well-being. Foster an environment that encourages taking time off when needed. Prioritize the well-being of individuals to prevent burnout.

The journey from self-care to community care offers a profound perspective shift. It underscores the vital interdependence of individual and collective well-being. By actively participating in community care, we amplify the positive impact of self-care practices and foster a thriving, supportive community. As we embrace the ethos that we are stronger together, we create a space where well-being is celebrated and actively cultivated. Ultimately, this benefits us all.

Cover image by Andrew Moca.