Creating Social Hubs in Our Communities
In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of community and social connection cannot be overstated. Our homes (first spaces) and workplaces (second spaces) play vital roles in our daily lives. However, it’s the third spaces that can foster a sense of belonging and well-being. These informal public gathering spots have started to disappear. The loss of these spaces has left some people without social outlets.
When we’re kids, there are more opportunities for these kinds of spaces. As an example, when I was a child, over the summer months I took part in 4-H, and while school was in session, I took part in band. There are lots of kids who play sports, dance, and take part in cultural activities. I think parents understand that it’s important for kids to develop socially and factor that into the lives of children. Unlike children, who have structured social activities, adults often struggle. Finding similar opportunities for social engagement is difficult due to work and family demands.
In my last post, The Crucial Need for Community in 2025, I talked about community. I discussed how our collective sense of community has been dwindling. Our focus has been more on work and the development of who we are as it relates to our jobs. We spend less time in our communities, getting to know others, and improving the communities we live in.
Explaining Third Spaces
A third space refers to a social environment that is distinct from the two primary social spaces: the home (first space) and the workplace (second space). Third spaces are typically public or semi-public settings where people can gather, interact and build community.
A third space is a community venue, not home or work. Individuals can engage, interact and build meaningful relationships in these third spaces. This includes things like community gardens, social organizations, sports clubs, and more. These third spaces serve as social hubs for people. Humans by nature are social creatures.
You have heard of groups like Elk, Moose, Lions, Rotary clubs, or bowling leagues. These are good examples of third spaces. In some areas bowling leagues are a great example of a third space. You’ll find people from all walks of life taking part in bowling leagues. These spaces and events all have that human-to-human interaction built into them. That human interaction is what makes them so valuable to people.
What happened to the third spaces?
The decline of third spaces can be traced through various changes in our society over the decades. In the mid-20th century, third spaces flourished as people engaged more readily with their local communities. Bowling alleys, diners, and community halls were bustling hubs where neighbors gathered, and civic organizations thrived. These venues provided essential opportunities for human connection, allowing individuals to unwind, socialize, and escape the pressures of daily life.
As time passed, life began to move at a rapid pace. This speed encroached on the time available for people to engage in leisurely activities outside of work and home. The increasing demands of work consumed much of their time. Longer commutes added to the challenge. Constant connectivity in the digital age left little room for these social interactions. People found themselves juggling multiple responsibilities. These ranged from career advancements to family obligations. These responsibilities often take precedence over leisure and community engagement.
Moreover, the nature of work itself has evolved, with many jobs becoming more demanding and time-consuming. People have also used their jobs to define who they are. They assign personal value based on their jobs. The rise of remote work and the gig economy have blurred the lines between personal and professional life and space. Further eroding the time and energy people have to devote to third spaces and social activities. In this context, third spaces have struggled to keep their relevance and appeal in the face of these competing priorities.
The cultural shift towards individualism and self-reliance has played a role in the decline of third spaces. People became more focused on their personal goals. Their achievements took precedence. As a result, the collective spirit that once drove community engagement began to wane. The allure of digital entertainment and social media has worsened this shift. They offer convenient, superficial alternatives to in-person interactions.
The erosion of third spaces is not just a loss of physical venues. It is also a diminishing of the social fabric that binds communities together. These places were more than just locations. They were the heart of communal life. They fostered relationships, collaboration, and a sense of belonging. This sense of belonging is increasingly difficult to find in today’s fast-paced world.
What are the benefits of third spaces?
Third spaces offer many benefits that extend beyond mere socializing. Most people focus on the social aspect when talking about third spaces. Yet, they give a sense of community and support. This can enhance mental health and overall well-being in communities. For instance, community gardens not only allow individuals to collaborate on growing fresh produce. They also offer a serene environment to unwind and connect with nature. The people taking part in community gardens often share the fruits of their labor. They show an understanding of how to share. They also recognize the needs of others.
Social organizations create platforms for people to join forces. They pursue common interests and causes. This creates or strengthens communal bonds. Similarly, sports clubs promote physical fitness while also encouraging camaraderie and team spirit among members. An advantage that’s not recognized often is the mixing of people from different economic backgrounds. You wonder how that is a benefit. Nevertheless, research has found that mixing people of different socioeconomic groups can help bring people from lower economic means up. Improving the individuals and communities overall. Through these examples, it becomes clear that third spaces play an important role in nurturing a cohesive and vibrant community.
Impacts of the loss of third spaces
The impacts have been subtle. Here are 3 examples of how the loss of the third spaces can be felt today. First, we see a reduction in social engagement. People are feeling isolated, leading to more mental health issues. The former Surgeon General listed this as being a major issue for senior citizens in the US. With the loss of these spaces, we don’t have spaces where we can talk to other people. Socializing with others can create a sense of belonging. It also allows us a place and time to talk through feelings or thoughts we are having.
The decline in civic engagement is another way we can see a change in society. Third, spaces serve as venues for community meetings, local events, and civic activities. With fewer people participating in these meetings, events, and activities, we see a diminished sense of collective responsibility. In these situations, we can see reduced civic engagement.
As physical third spaces become less accessible, individuals increasingly turn to online digital platforms for social interaction. While not all online communities lack value, they often do not provide the depth and richness of in-person interactions. In these virtual environments, individuals tend to abandon social decorum. They engage in behavior they would likely avoid in face-to-face settings. This negative conduct has become significant enough to warrant its own term – trolls. Consequently, reliance on social media can result in superficial relationships and a sense of disconnection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, third spaces are important for bringing people together and building strong communities. These places give us chances to meet. They allow us to support each other and grow as a group. This is hard to do online. As these community places disappear, we need to understand their value. We must work to keep them in our neighborhoods and cities. By doing this, we can make sure our communities stay lively, welcoming, and strong, helping everyone who lives there.
So go out and find a group, event, or activity in your community today!
