Where to Find Community in Williamson County
Finding community as an adult can be hard. As we move on from the more readily available structure of school and youth activities, it can be easy to let this aspect of life fall by the wayside. Responsibilities arise. Circumstances change; And yet, finding healthy ways to gather remains crucial for our growth and well-being. Engaging with people and activities we can rally around ensures that connection and learning stay consistent, even as we grow older. By intentionally staying connected with the people around us, we refuse to let go of the most paramount parts of life. It really is that important.
There are several opportunities to find community in Williamson County, Tennessee, but knowing where to look is half the battle. To ease the overwhelming nature of this, here’s some clubs and activities available to you, tailored to your interests and availability.
Adult Sports Leagues and Programs
Being on an athletic team is a fulfilling and fun way to stay active and social. You don’t have to give that up, even if you thought you’d seen the last of the field or court.
Williamson County Parks and Recreation is a great resource for many things, including finding adult sports leagues and programs. Current leagues include Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball, Flag Football, Softball, Tennis, Kickball, Table Tennis, and Pickleball. Team requirements, rules, and schedule vary by sport. Visit the Adult Sports page to find out more details and coordinator contact information.
If individual sports and fitness have always been more your speed, consider frequenting group fitness classes, also hosted by Williamson County Parks and Recreation. There are several options to choose from, from strength training and yoga to cardio via cycling or dance. Aqua Fitness Classes are also offered for those who enjoy a good pool workout. Classes do require a small fee, though seasonal, monthly, and annual rates are available through the department. Varying fitness classes are offered throughout the county, at associated recreational facilities. To see what’s available in your area, visit the location information page.
Running clubs have also become increasingly popular, and are a great way to enjoy distance runs safely and with good company. Two known running clubs in the area are Franklin Run Club and Franklin Road Runners. Many run clubs operate from social media platforms, so keep an eye out for clubs in your specific area that may have less visibility but still offer the same wonderful sense of community! Group and individual running is a great way to get to know the place you call home, and there are great resources for the sport in Williamson County.
Artistic Community
No matter where you are in the world, art is an integral tool of cultural and community flourishing. Art is often a personal practice, but it doesn’t have to be isolating. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or want to pick up a new hobby, there is a place for you in Williamson County.
Arts and crafts classes are available through Williamson County Parks and Recreation. You can learn more about sewing, painting, pottery, jewelry making, and more, through workshops led by wonderful instructors. Classes and workshops vary in price, location, and capacity. Check out the available teen and adult classes, for opportunities to learn and grow among peers as an artist in Williamson County. The department is open to artists of all ages and skill levels.
Firstlight Arts Academy is another opportunity to thrive artistically in Williamson County. The program was founded in 2006 by illustrator, designer, and artist Dennas Davis. The art education, available to kids, teens, and adults, is available for all skills levels: beginner, intermediate, or advanced. Depending on your preference, you can commit to a full term course or take advantage of the Art Buffet option, which offers studio time and personalized instruction for any project of your choosing every first and third Saturday of the month. Sessions are $43 and offer communal, creative space and expert guidance.
Beyond taking classes, there are many ways to stay connected to the Williamson County art community, with several resources and showcase opportunities for artists of all aspirations and mediums.
Musicians
Music moves and unites us, and it’s a skill that can be enjoyed and developed at any age. Whether you miss the drum cadence of your alma mater’s marching band or simply cherish the feeling of playing beloved songs, you can pursue your love of music in Williamson County.
Williamson County Parks and Recreation offer affordable music classes for all ages, as well as the opportunity to be a volunteer member of the community band and chorus. The Williamson County Community Band is open to musicians of all ages and skill levels. They are acclaimed throughout the county and perform free indoor and outdoor concerts all year round. An offshoot of the community band, Five Points Swing Band, is a charitable organization in Middle Tennessee and has a loyal fanbase. For singers, the Williamson County Chorus is open for qualified high school students, adults, and seniors who have experience and are passionate about the art form.
If you’re more of a singer-songwriter or are looking for smaller-scale performance opportunities, consider using social media to promote your music and find others with a similar sound and style. Williamson County is full of artistic talent, and you may just find your niche.
Community For Readers
Reading and writing are wonderful practices of personal growth and enjoyment, but they also offer opportunity to gather. If you love diving into another world through literature, consider joining forces will fellow readers to discuss and debrief your favorite stories.
The library is a great, central resource for readers and non-readers alike. If you’re interested in joining a book club, The Williamson County Library has great options across county locations. Book club kits are available upon request and can be borrowed for a 6-week-period. If you’re looking to join an already established club, however, there are several options based on whatever genre, time, and location best suits your needs. Currently, there are clubs in Bethesda, College Grove, Franklin, and Nolensville, alongside online options. Whether you’re an avid reader or want to get back into it, this is a wonderful way to do so among peers.
If you’re interested in library involvement but aren’t too keen on the idea of a book club, the John P. Holt Brentwood Library offers an array of adult resources, classes, and volunteer opportunities alongside traditional book club options. Check out their adult program calendar to see if any events or clubs are right for you and your schedule. If you have an idea for a program that you think would help people learn and gather, they also accept proposals.
More Opportunities
If you aren’t passionate about a particular hobby or vocation, there are still plenty of ways to engage with your community. There are several nonprofits in Williamson County that count on volunteers. Consider teaming up with a cause you care deeply about, and regularly lend a hand where it is needed. There are a several volunteer and civic opportunities that meet a variety of needs, from food scarcity and homelessness to animal welfare and environmental sustainability.
If you’re a person of faith or curious about pursuing it, there are over 100 churches in our area that may have the community you’re looking for. Many churches offer small-group gatherings outside of regular services, as well as opportunities to connect and serve outside of typical church hours. If you’re at a loss for where to find fellowship, engaging with a church body could be the answer you’re looking for.
Learning new things is always a great way to enrich your life and build community. If you’re interested in learning in any capacity—whether it be a new hobby, financial literacy, or safety training—there are several local opportunities for adults.
In our world, it’s easy to look inward in pursuit of self-fulfillment. Yet, we’re increasingly aware that solitary efforts leave us lonely and dissatisfied, especially as we age. Though getting involved can sometimes feel overwhelming, inconvenient, and a little awkward, engaging in local opportunities and events can enrich your life and the lives of those around you. Don’t let the fear of awkwardness or inconvenience keep you from taking the first step toward meeting new people or honing skills that could change your life or the life of someone else. As long as we continue to pursue togetherness, that potential will live on, right here in Williamson County.
