Investing in Community
- December 9, 2025
- by Dennis McNamara
“Community is a form of wealth. And like any form of wealth, it compounds when you nurture it.” - Dennis McNamara
When most people hear the word investing, they immediately think of stocks, real estate, or private equity. But one of the highest-return investments any of us can make, in terms of fulfillment, well-being, and even longevity, is in community.
Not in a vague, inspirational way.
Literally. And the data supports it.
The Harvard Study of Adult Development, the longest-running longitudinal study in history, has followed people for over 80 years. Its director, Dr. Robert Waldinger, summarizes the findings in a single line:
“Good relationships keep us healthier and happier. Period.”
It turns out the greatest predictor of long-term health and life satisfaction isn’t cholesterol, income, or education. It’s the quality of our relationships.
But like financial wealth or physical strength, community doesn’t build itself.
It requires intention.
It requires attention.
And yes, it requires investment.
Community as a High-Return Investment
I first met Raad Ghantous, yes, that Raad Ghantous, at a men’s retreat in Miami organized by Greg Scheinman of Midlife Male. Between the flights, hotel, retreat fee, and the emotional investment of leaving my pregnant wife and two boys for the weekend, it wasn’t a small commitment.
But the ROI? Off. The. Charts.
That weekend sparked friendships with men who are redefining midlife, not as a crisis, but as a relaunch. A second act fueled by clarity, purpose, and the power to say yes to what energizes and no to what drains.
Raad and I stayed in touch, met again during a layover brunch, and now collaborate on exactly what you’re reading.
All because I chose to show up physically, financially, and emotionally.
Digital Connection vs. Physical Presence
I work with clients across the country, many virtually. I’ve built meaningful relationships through Zoom, email, and social media. Digital connection absolutely has its place.
But it is not a replacement for being in the same room as someone.
Two years ago, I launched the Longevity Ruck Club on Meetup.com. A standing weekly walk with weighted backpacks.
No cost. No agenda.
At first, no attendees.
Then one person joined. Then another. Today, I see some of these once-strangers more often than my own extended family.
Two truths emerged:
- Digital connection gives us breadth. Physical presence gives us depth.
- If you can’t find the community you crave, the most courageous thing you can do is build it.
Odds are, others have been waiting for it to exist.
The Long Game of Community
We all know the saying:
“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is today.”
Community follows the same rule.
If you wait until you “have time,” you’ll always be too busy.
If you wait until you “need it,” it may already be too late.
Real community, the kind that sustains you, grows from consistent presence and effort.
Where Could More Connection Serve You?
Here are the questions I’ve been asking myself, and perhaps they’ll serve you too:
- What part of my life would benefit from deeper connection?
- What am I willing to invest to build relationships that nourish me?
It might mean joining a group.
Starting one.
Signing up for a retreat.
Or simply scheduling coffee with someone you care about.
Sometimes it costs money.
Often it just costs your attention.
But the return is worth it.
Because at the end of your life, your true net worth won’t be measured in dollars, but in who shows up for you, and who you showed up for.
Invest accordingly.
The Raad Life: 5 Takeaways
- Community is a long-term asset. Treat it like one.
Small, consistent deposits of time and presence grow into lifelong dividends. - Digital relationships matter, but they’re not enough.
Real transformation happens when you step into the room, the circle, or the woods with others. - If you can’t find the community you need, build it.
Leadership often begins with a simple invitation. - Your community becomes your environment and your environment shapes your life.
Choose people who elevate your energy, your health, and your sense of possibility. - Connection requires courage.
Showing up, reaching out, and allowing yourself to be known is the ultimate investment in a meaningful, intentional, long-lived life.
About the Author:
Dennis McNamara helps successful professionals design a life they can thrive in. He believes this is achieved financially, mentally, and physically. A seasoned fiduciary with deep expertise in evidence-based investing and long-horizon planning, he blends wealth management with longevity science to help clients build both net worth and well-being. Co-founder of wHealth Financial Advisors, Dennis is known for translating complexity into clarity and guiding people toward a future they’re genuinely excited to live.