“There’s nothing to do here.” This is what I first thought when I moved to Macomb two years ago. I’m 30 years old and finding community was really hard when I first moved to a brand new town and state. I tried the apps. I tried going to live music events downtown. But that’s not really how I make friends. I need to be doing a shared activity in a space where conversations and relationships can happen.
So I decided if Macomb was missing the kinds of activities I wanted to participate in, I’d just build it myself! Two years ago I started a fantasy book club since as all the book clubs in town were focused more on general fiction or nonfiction (good genres, just not my cup of tea). It took a long time, but now I’ve slowly met people who are also bookworms of the dragons and swords variety. And we meet every month. I cherish the moments spent laughing about characters or asking what the author was thinking.
Then came the Macomb Folk School. A place to learn crafts or talk philosophy or bring a dish to share at a potluck. I’ve enjoyed attending classes there. And teaching some myself! I can’t wait to see this gathering place continue to grow with their offerings and community building.
When people say they wish Macomb had this or that, I say, ' try offering it and see!' Or contacting an organization that exists like the Western Illinois Museum, LIFE Macomb, Park District, etc and ask them to offer it. When I moved here, it took almost a year to discover all the great events these places put on. They are the hidden gems of our town where the community really gathers together.
And please, go check out the flyer boards at the public library, YMCA, local coffee shops and other businesses. There are some great events and organizations to get involved with that you might not hear about online due to algorithms which would rather you spend your time online. So check them out IRL (in-real-life) instead. JD Webb Macomb, IL
