Healthiest & Happiest Greendale Podcast

Community in Action: Civic Engagement

Mar 19

What do handing out spoons, running a community fun run, and shaping local decisions all have in common? They’re all part of what makes a community truly thrive.

In this episode of The Healthiest and Happiest Podcast, host Ashley is joined by Greendale's Village Manager Mike Hawes and super-volunteer Aleks Skibicki for conversation about civic engagement—aka, all the ways we show up for our community.

From big-picture planning (like parks and recreation improvements) to everyday moments (like helping at an ice cream social), you’ll hear how getting involved—at any level—can boost your well-being, build meaningful connections, and create memories that last far beyond the moment.

Aleks shares why sometimes the best advice is to just “jump in,” Mike explains how community voices shape real decisions, and together they remind us that you don’t need experience—just a willingness to show up (and maybe hand out a few spoons).

Whether you’re ready to join a committee, volunteer at an event, or simply stay more informed, this episode will leave you feeling motivated, connected, and maybe even a little braver.

Because a healthier, happier community starts with people like you.

Community Resources

Publications

Listen on
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Popular episodes