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Meet Ann Ragosta, of Communities Matter! a local non-profit on a mission to build strong and safe communities throughout Massachusetts.
By engaging, educating, and connecting with community members across the state through programs, presentations, displays and organized group social events - they aim to bridge gaps, heal communities, and harness positive energy
They host completely free community events across Massachusetts on important topics like; MCAS test preparation, internet & telephone scams, online bullying prevention, probate, teen addiction, safe communities, elder health & well-being, African American history, citizenship preparation exam, homeschooling preparedness and more.
Join us for a quick Q&A with Ann as we dive into her non-profit, community trends she’s watching and how she networks locally.
Q: What motivated you to start the Communities Matter non-profit, Ann?
A: I’ve always been an active member of my community in various local groups and offices, but with Communities Matter, I wanted to do something different. During my involvement in various groups, the most memorable times have been those where I learned something interesting through a presentation. You know, the things you learn and are excited about so you go home and share with friends and family?
And I realized that there is a void out there that needs to be filled - a local organization that can act as a "bridge" between subject matter experts, or historians and various communities who would enjoy learning something new by means of an informal presentation
Q: What are some of the challenges you've had to overcome in your industry?
A: Since the pandemic, I’ve really seen the necessity of gathering together as a community, making in person connections and learning with one another face to face. It makes a huge difference when you can interact with presenters and other community members and ask questions, instead of watching through a computer screen, in my opinion.
Q: What are some community trends you think people should stay on top of right now?
A: With more and more people doing so many day-to-day tasks online, the potential to be scammed is ever increasing. Among other topics, Communities Matter often hosts a presentation on Elder Scams because we want to bring awareness and scam prevention to this vulnerable group.
Q: How have you been able to network and get the word out locally?
A: I have reached out to public libraries and senior centers to host our free community conversations - libraries are a terrific resource for presentations to the public and senior centers are always looking for presentations that are relevant to their clientele.
I also am a member of my local chamber of commerce, Tri-County Regional Chamber - where I get to meet many other local business and nonprofit owners and attend great community networking events!
You can connect with Communities Matter on social media to keep up with the latest community conversation events & community building tips!
