Getting likes on your political posts on social media can give you the impression of having an impact, but let’s be real here: serious politics and change starts locally. Sharing information on social media is definitely important, but that form of activism must be matched with showing up in person in your local community.

I am a conservative because conservative values create a strong economy. A strong economy creates job opportunities. Having a job empowers individuals to be financially independent and free to live the life they desire. I believe free and financially independent individuals build strong families, strong families build strong communities, and strong communities build a strong nation.

A strong nation cannot exist without strong localities. Because of this, it is crucial for us young conservatives to become engaged with our communities at the most local levels possible in addition to our national-level activism and social media content.

If you are not sure how to get started, my suggestion for your first step is to become a member of your local rotary club. These weekly meetings will be a perfect way for you to dip your toe into the pool of local activism.

I joined my local rotary club while I was home from college for the summer between my freshman and sophomore year. Once a week, the club would meet at our small town’s diner for breakfast at 7:15am.

After casual conversation during the meal, the weekly meetings often include a presentation from someone relevant to local issues, like a politician coming to talk about upcoming legislation, the leader of a nonprofit to discuss one of their projects, or students from the nearby school coming to exhibit their work. The members then get to ask the guest presenter questions and learn how they can help them in their mission.

The presentations make these meetings a perfect way for you to learn about and meet key stakeholders in your area, and then branch out to join other local efforts and organizations that align closer to your personal interests.

I should warn you: the members of rotary are usually many decades older than millennials and Gen Z, and they lean slightly to the left. This has many benefits, but most importantly, the more we can befriend those across the aisle and learn about their mindset, the better!

Keep in mind, these meetings often include a meal. The usual cost for a meeting is about $10 (give or take) per breakfast, so make sure you have the funds to do this. If you are balling on a budget (like I was), consider going every two weeks or once a month to catch up with everyone and keep close ties with the members.

Joining your local rotary is not only beneficial to your community, but will also help you grow as a young individual exploring local issues and developing yourself and your path in life. I loved my time in the rotary, and I think you will too!