Very interesting perspective. I had never considered the value of making community connections in that way. And to everyone who thinks Trent may shallow for highlighting the financial perks to being involved in civic activities, might I point out that this is a blog about money. Doing something that is of value can brings value back to you- maybe even in the form of money. *Gasp!*

Rock on, Trent. Love the blog.

However, I have to take very strong umbrage to the example of influence one can bear to save money by being involved in local policy. The point of being a part of the community, especially anything impacting budget, isn’t to save yourself money. It is to help better the community.

It’s the example you used that is poor. If it were in the best interests of the community at large to have passed the sidewalk materials part of that item, then you did a disservice to your neighbors and yourself to “save some money”.

Thankfully you aren’t yet an elected official, or else this would have been a rather serious breach of ethics.

I used to go to a lot of meetings (in a previous location) for what I consider “defensive” purposes. The city was trying (and succeeding over a period of years) to regulate and drive the rentals out of town, and I saw my marginal economic position and housing choice at risk. I wasn’t trying to get the city to do something, I was trying to get the city to NOT do things.

There was a huge economic and social gulf between the homeowners who controlled the whole ball of wax, and the renters who were gradually being driven out.

He is invited to be part of groups that are civic-minded, yes, but they are great fun as well. Consider his inclusion into private groups that have speakers such as General Swartzkopf, or groups of guys that put together the greatest weeklong camping/riding/private rodeo that probably exists anywhere on the planet.

Being people and money savvy, he doesn’t do these things for financial gain or to wield power, but he is not blind to those benefits. His consistent involvement has put him on the boards of many groups that pursue things he is interested in, be it business, civic service, local government, and his personal hobbies and political leanings.

He is widely respected and often sought after for interviews and quotes in local and national publications, which has had a positive effect on his business. Can he quantify the financial gain of this or that group? Probably. Most importantly, he has developed lifelong friendships with people who share a similar outlook on life and similar interests.

I respect and honor him for doing his part to make our local area a better and more prosperous place to live.

For me, such involvement includes heavy involvement in my local church. Do I gain financially? I don’t know or care. I am enriched in so many ways by being an active member of my church. I have deep friendships, I am able to help them carry the load when times are tough. We do community service together, and share the important moments of life together, from weddings and baby showers to funerals.

I think it was Guiliani who said, “Weddings optional, funerals manditory.” And I agree. When you are part of your community, never forget to show up for the tough stuff. Don’t forget to be there when they are raising funds for a seriously injured or sick child, don’t miss the funerals. People may not remember you there for the parties, but you will show you can be counted on when you are there when times are rough.

In addition to the areas Trent mentioned, never forget to take part in charitable organizations. Pick the areas you are most passionate about, because there you will be the most effective and will meet people of like mind. There may be some gain in contacts and influence, but you will know you are doing good, which provides it’s own reward.

I love your site and I REALLY love this post. I sent you a digg and I hope you write more posts like this one.