Will you be my neighbor?

This episode of the “hello community®” podcast is a bold invitation to rethink what a neighborhood is and how loneliness can open the door to connection--wherever you live. Join host Catherine Jura as she welcomes social worker and director of the Albany NNORC Kyra Alte, to discuss loneliness and some practical questions listeners can use to explore their own experiences. They also discuss how loneliness is a universal human experience like hunger or thirst.

In this episode:

- Learn why it is important to understand the three types of loneliness: interpersonal, societal, and existential

- Come to understand why naming our loneliness is the first step toward healing

- Explore why we can’t get out of loneliness alone—and why that’s okay

- Learn how to intentionally build community in traditional and non-traditional neighborhoods (renting apartments on the same floor; family and friends living in the same cul-de-sac; NNORC)

- Discover how Albany, NY turned a neighborhood into a vibrant hub of connection for seniors: NNORC: Neighborhood Naturally Occurring Retirement Community

From naming our experience of loneliness to taking the first brave step—perhaps knocking on a neighbor’s door—this episode empowers listeners to become community builders wherever they live.

Note from Catherine:

I am glad you are here! I hope you found some tips and inspiration to help you move towards the connection and community you desire!

If you found this episode helpful please share it with others, so together, we can build a world where everyone has the connection and community they need and want!

If you would like to be updated on new episodes please subscribe.

Last but not least, reviews are really important for getting the word out about “hello community®”! We sure would appreciate your thoughts: thank you!

Till next time!

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Chapters/Timestamp

Introduction to Social Isolation - 00:00:00

Understanding NORCs - 00:03:00

Types of Loneliness - 00:09:00

Normalizing Loneliness - 00:15:00

Creating Community in Neighborhoods - 00:21:00

Resources and Support - 00:27:00

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Kyra’s Biography:

Kyra is a geriatric social worker by trade, state licensed (LMSW), and has a background in care management.

To contact Kyra or NNORC please visit http://jfsneny.org (NNORC link under "programs" tab)

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Looking for more information?:

“hello community” link tree takes you in one click to our Facebook Page and all our episode platforms http://lnk.bio/hellocommunity

Project Unlonely: http://www.artandhealing.org/project-unlonely/

How do I find the community and connection I so want?

On this episode of the hello community podcast with Catherine Jura, meet Lynn Underhill, a woman who built her career and a life of connection—by saying one bold word: YES! By repeatedly stepping into the unknown Lynn built meaningful relationships, a career in art and design, and a life of purpose and belonging.

•Discover the difference between alone and lonely?

•Lynn offers practical tips for uncovering the communities all around you.

•Never underestimate the possibilities from making one phone call.

•Be inspired as Lynn transforms a volunteer mural project into a thriving design career.

•Learn how one small act of human connection brought hope to Lynn’s grief after the loss of her husband.

Community isn’t always found—it’s built one yes at a time. If you’ve ever felt unsure where to begin, this episode offers gentle encouragement: trust yourself, take a step, and just say yes!

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A Note from Catherine:

If you find this episode helpful, please share it with others so together we can build a world of connection. Thank you!

If you’d like to get the most up to date bi-weekly episodes on creating connection and community, please subscribe to this podcast.

Till next time

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Timestamp: Don’t have time for the whole episode, or want to re-watch/re-listen to a favorite part—the timestamp lays out the episode for you

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:56 Meet Lynn Underhill: Building Connections

01:43 The Power of Saying Yes

03:50 Finding Solitude in Community

06:09 Navigating Loneliness and Connection

10:05 Creating Community Through Family and Activities

14:05 Overcoming Tragedy and Expanding Community

17:12 Embracing New Experiences with Children

19:53 Embracing Solitude and Art

20:14 Volunteering and Discovering a Passion for Art

21:40 Turning Art into a Career

22:33 Community and Personal Growth

25:03 The Ronald McDonald House Project

32:49 Reflections on Life and Hope

36:58 Final Thoughts and Resources

Might an intergenerational community be a place of connection for you?

Welcome to the hello community® podcast with Catherine Jura. In this inspiring episode, we meet the Peters family—Sue, Justin, Lucas and Sam—who share how three generations have found belonging and connection through the Scouts. Together, they explore what community really means—across ages, genders, and backgrounds.

From Girl Scouts to Cub Scouts to Scouts BSA to adult leadership, discover how a youth organization can foster emotional growth, connection, and community—for kids and adults alike.

In this episode:

•Sue shares how the Girl Scouts community provided a safe haven for self-expression.

•Justin reflects on how leadership of the Scouts community supported healing his social anxiety.

•Lucas and Sam, the newest generation, talk about adventure, learning, service projects, and feeling seen.

•The family highlights how Scouting fosters intergenerational friendships and leadership (no matter your age).

•Learn how today's Scouts embrace gender inclusion, teamwork, and growth.

This episode will touch your heart. It reminds us that connection isn’t just about common interests—it’s about shared experience, showing up for each other, and the courage to be seen. From quiet kids finding their voice to adults healing through leadership, this is community in its truest form.

A Note from Catherine:

If you find this episode helpful, please share it with others so together we can build a world of connection. Thank you!

If you’d like to get the most up to date bi-weekly episodes on creating connection and community, please subscribe to this podcast.

Till next time

___________________________________________________________

Timestamp: Don’t have time for the whole episode, or want to re-watch/re-listen to a favorite part—the timestamp lays out the episode for you

00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast

00:52 Meet the Peters Family

02:24 Sue's Scouting Journey

05:43 Sam's Scouting Experience

06:28 Justin's Perspective on Scouting

10:27 Lucas's Scouting Story

11:21 Understanding Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA

12:52 Scouting in the Modern Era

16:26 Building Community Through Scouting

17:46 Building a Community Through Scouts

18:33 Parental Involvement in Cub Scouts

20:11 Transitioning to Scouts BSA

21:00 The Role of Den and Pack Leaders

22:58 The Value of Mixed-Age Interactions

25:27 Experiences with Different Leaders

28:18 Volunteer Opportunities in Scouting

30:33 Personal Reflections on Leadership

32:16 Community Service Projects

32:59 Final Thoughts on Community