What is a Community Hub?

A “hub” is defined as “the effective center of an activity, region network.” And by extension, a “community hub” is a central gathering place and access point for a variety of programs and services-such as wellness programs, healthcare, childcare, education, employment and other social services, cultural and recreational opportunities, among others. Typically, the majority of community hubs respond to the health and wellness needs of the community and can be established in many different settings, including healthcare, churches, libraries, schools and community centers. While the range of services offered by community hubs may look different from community to community, they all serve as a gateway to the community and are essential because they:

• Showcase the range of services available in the community, thereby resulting in “easy-to-find” community resources
• Provide year-round or pop-up services in an accessible location or, alternatively, serve as a referral point for services
• Serve as gathering places for community members and visitors, which result in improved community connectedness and inclusion
• Promote results-driven, multi-sector partnerships among community businesses and organizations
• Improve the efficiency, affordability and sustainability of community services from the pooling of community resources, a significant benefit to under-resourced and underserved communities