After the challenging past eight years, the country elected Barack Obama. While the president-elect seems to have restored faith in the United States, the country must not become complacent government.

Obama’s acceptance speech acknowledged “…this victory alone is not the change we seek…it is only the chance for us to make that change.” Obama continuously advocated for individual responsibility.

Depending on the person, some underestimate or overestimate how much one person affects the country. People must assess how effective one person can be in their community.

“As a community organizer, the president-elect realizes the importance in grassroots movements within neighborhoods and communities,” said Curtis Wood, political science professor with a focus in public administration and urban governance.

The chances of you being able to meet and talk with Barack Obama or George Bush about a topic are slim to none. The chances that you can discuss the same topic with your city council or town mayor, however, are far greater.

Perhaps you’re concerned with energy efficiency. You can begin the change in your own home by purchasing fluorescent light bulbs, low-flow faucet heads and other energy efficient products.

To expand your contribution, you can rally supporters in your community to make your town implement building codes which require or provide incentives for buildings to have better insulation, a wind turbine, solar paneling or any other methods of efficiency.

“[Local activism] is the fastest, easiest and cheapest way for new policies to be applied,” said Rep. Bob Pritchard, (R-Hinckley). “Local government is closer to the citizen and the frontline of governance services.”

Activism can be applied to other large issues like affordable housing, which can also be determined by such factors as building codes. Pritchard described the levels of government as a pyramid.

Go to the base, the local government, first. Then move up to the district level, then the state and then address the federal level. The top level, for global issues, is the United Nations (UN). If multiple individuals fail to do their share of work, problems occur for cities.

If multiple cities fail to progress and do their part, states are affected, and the problems continue up the pyramid.

Now due to differences in factors like geography, climate, demographics and industries, not every city’s problems are the same or can be solved the same way. But something can always be done. People always have a say.

Every level of government is important and all types of activism should be continuously encouraged. But do not forget the old saying “practice what you preach.”

Quit the complaining and discussions of what people should be doing and take action on your thoughts. Don’t expect someone to change if you’re not willing to do the same. Progress starts at a basic level – you and your community.