06/08/2026
Our environment—the places where we live, work, and play—has a significant impact on our wellbeing, both at the individual and the societal levels. When we don't feel connected to our place and our neighbors, we experience negative impacts on our physical health, our quality of life, and our shared resiliency. Historic downtowns and neighborhood business districts are rife with possibilities for fostering community connections and the many positive impacts that ripple out from social connection.
There is a strong connection between Main Street and sense of belonging. Our districts as places create opportunities for increased connection and belonging, especially when they are intentionally programmed. Our annual Downtown Planting day brings volunteers together to plant 270+ planters around Downtown Everett.
Perhaps one of the greatest ways that Main Street fosters belonging is through volunteerism. Washington Main Street's Belonging in the Evergreen State report confirms that Main Street volunteers experience a high sense of belonging.
Volunteerism is core to the work we do on Main Street—it helps us accomplish our goals, but it also provides opportunities for community members to work together, shoulder to shoulder, in service to our community.
Learn more at preservewa.org/mainstreetweek
Washington Main Street
Washington Main Street
