Every community across this great nation of ours has something in common – they all have their share of local groups and organizations that are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of its residents. To do this, the members of these groups hold meetings which are designed to address local issues – and ensure the betterment of the place they call home.

The Five Towns and Atlantic Beach is certainly no exception to this rule. All across our community, there are people who are members of various groups, clubs and organizations who do all they can to make this community a better one.

If you are one of those individuals who is performing this selfless task, my hat is off to you. If you are not – then there is no time like the present to start – and the best way to do that is to attend one of your local meetings.

At least once a week, there is a local meeting being held somewhere in our community. If you do not know where a meeting is being held, you can always check our community calendar, which this week can be found on page 18, and you will see a list of dates, times and locations where you can find both a meeting – and people making a difference.

Whether it is the Lawrence Association, the Inwood Civic Association, the Cedarhurst Village Board of Trustees, the Hewlett-Woodmere School Board, the Five Towns Forum, or the Atlantic Beach Village Board, there is always a place to go and much to learn about the community you call home.

Since I joined the Herald, I have attended many local meetings. In fact, I will be at one tonight. I must say that besides research and relying on my ace reporter Andrew Coen, much of my knowledge of the Five Towns and Atlantic Beach and what issues are at the forefront in each community have come from my attendance at these meetings. I cannot stress enough how important it is for people who live in a shared community to work together to make it a better place to live – and I applaud all who are doing just that here in the Five Towns and Atlantic Beach.

If you are a member of a community group and would like to tell us about who you are and what you do, and where and when your meetings are, please contact me at nassaueditor@liherald.com, or call me at (516) 569-4000 ext. 204. I would not only love to print the information and location of your meeting in our community calendar – but come and learn even more about this great community.

Remember, attending local meetings are the best way to meet your neighbors and learn about them – and where you live.