Cultural and Community Resources

Contextual Resource: Cultural and Community Resources

Contextual Resource: Cultural and Community Resources

Couples often find that the cultural backgrounds, religious or spiritual groups or organizations, and
communities to which they belong can provide many forms of support for their relationships. These
resources can provide a sense of connection to the world around you and/or a higher power, a set of
values that organize your beliefs and help you to make decisions, and a source of practical and
support for your relationship.

Strategies for increasing your cultural and community resources

1. Identify groups in your community that could be a good fit for you and/or your partner. These
groups may include religious, service, professional networking, and cultural heritage organizations.
Once you have identified these groups, meet with people who are involved and attend organizational
events to see if joining any of them would be a good fit for you.

2. Research your cultural background by talking with older family members to learn more about your
family and cultural history. Consider whether your family has abandoned any cultural traditions that
you would like to reinstate in your relationship with your partner.

3. Consider how you and your partner can best incorporate your religious and spiritual beliefs into
your relationship. This may include attending religious services, praying, and participating in spiritual
growth experiences together. Even if you and your partner are of different faiths, try to find some
ways to combine your spiritual practices within your relationship.

4. Be curious about your partner’s cultural background. Even if you and your partner come from the
same cultural background, you may learn a lot about your partner by finding out about any unique
ways that he or she celebrates that cultural heritage.

5. Connect with a religious or spiritual leader (such as a church pastor or rabbi) from whom you
would be open to seeking guidance when you encounter religious or spiritual challenges in your
relationship.