I grew up in a one red light town in south Georgia, not far from the coast and not close to much of anything. I went to the same school from first grade through graduation and got married in the same church where I was baptized. Like everyone, I navigated by landmarks. Good directions often included phrases like “turn left at the dirt road just past Miss Bootsie’s house.” I knew everyone and everyone knew me. And they knew my parents, which meant I could never get away with anything.

Picnic at the Verrado Community

Opportunities for entertainment were limited to say the least. It was important to never miss a high school dance, county fair or trip to the skating rink. But the best fun always seemed to be the kind we invented. Small town life forces a certain creativity – a resourcefulness that is equal parts imagination, opportunity and community. Imagination and opportunity are always in abundant supply, but without community – engagement, input, buy-in, support – we don’t get very far.

Here’s the interesting thing: This principle, so clearly expressed in my hometown, is just as relevant in a modern urban setting. At Eastmark, we are shaping a lifestyle that not only relies on community, it is a direct reflection of community interests, passions and aspirations. Our first residents will set the trends and establish the traditions that define Eastmark.

How does that happen? It’s pretty simple. We ask. What are you passionate about? What are your interests? How would you like to be involved in your community? We have a few ideas, but we really want to hear from you. Go to Eastmark’s Contact page today and send us a message to help us create the life you’ve always wanted at Eastmark.

Suzanne Walden-Wells is the Director of Community Life at Eastmark, the heart and hub of the East Valley and DMB Associates’ newest community. Suzanne and her team are responsible for crafting authentic experiences that make life at Eastmark fresh and engaging.