By Jalyn Bolyard, Online Editor

While on summer break, remember to give back to your community in a small yet powerful way: support local businesses. 

Every summer, college students pack up their bags and head back home. While some may only journey a few miles from campus to reach home, others may live 1,000 miles away or more. Regardless, summer gives students a chance to go back home and see what their local community is up to.

A way students can get involved with their community is remembering to shop with local businesses.

According to the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, locally owned businesses offer a lot of positives to a community, including creating a positive attitude with other community members, supporting local jobs, and providing public benefits and services.

Not only does it make you feel good, but your money has an impact too. According to a study conducted by research firm Civic Economics, out of $100 that you spend locally, $68 stays in your community. However, for the same amount spent in chain stores, only $43 remains; if you shop online, very little or no money stays local.

One of my favorite parts about being home each summer is stopping by my favorite local restaurants and shops. The food tastes great locally, and it’s always a nice comfort food to have. For the stores, you never know what treasures you may find in a tiny thrift shop. I’ve found unique gifts for family and friends that they’ve loved and some neat items for myself as well.

When you travel throughout the country, you’re bound to find those major chain restaurants and stores that are in every big city. You know the ones. However, mom-and-pop stores are unique finds that only exist in one spot. Once they’re gone, they’re gone.

So when you’re home this summer, take a stroll down your own Main Street and buy lunch or a small item from a local business. Not only will you support your community, but you will have a good experience too.

Photo Credit: Jalyn Bolyard