It takes a village: How community can be a lifeline for improving child and family well-being

You have likely heard the saying “it takes a village to raise a child” before. Although its exact origins are unknown, it is often ascribed to an African proverb because it embodies the collective spirit of many African cultures. In simple terms, the saying suggests it takes many people — parents, teachers, extended family, siblings, neighbours, policymakers, community members — to provide a safe, healthy and nurturing environment for children to grow and develop. This can look like…