In a time when many people say they feel increasingly disconnected from one another, a new grassroots community group is hoping to bring neighbors together through a simple idea: spending time together.

The Together Trail, a Franklin-based community organization, is working to create opportunities for local residents to connect through monthly nature walks, volunteer projects, and social events such as cooking classes and craft nights. The group, which is still in its beginning stages, invites people from Franklin and surrounding communities to participate.

When Franklin resident Paige Pielocik organized the first Together Trail nature walk in July 2025, only one person showed up. Today, that person is one of her closest friends and has become a pivotal member in supporting The Together Trail's mission.

Together with help from her friend and volunteer Michelle Tokar, Pielocik has expanded the organization's offerings to include activities such as cooking classes and craft nights. She also hopes to organize larger community initiatives, including shop-local campaigns, volunteer projects and even a community cookbook featuring recipes from local residents.

Pielocik said she founded the organization after noticing increasing social and political division in her community, reflecting a trend that is plaguing communities across the country. She believes local communities can help address these challenges by creating opportunities for people to simply spend time together.

"Everything feels so politically charged," she said. "I wanted to create a space where people who may not have a lot in common could still come together, connect as neighbors and build friendships."

Her view is supported by research linking strong social connections to improved physical health, mental well-being and civic engagement.

She also wanted to create an alternative to hobby- or sports-focused organizations.

"There are plenty of groups centered around a specific interest," she said. "I wanted something where people could simply get together for the sake of community."

Pielocik also noted she does not want cost to be a barrier to participation. Unlike many organizations, The Together Trail has no membership fees or requirements. However, some specialty events-such as cooking classes-may have a registration fee to cover costs.

The group's signature event-the monthly nature walks-are completely free of charge and are designed to be welcoming and accessible for all ages and fitness levels. They welcome families, individuals, friends, and even four-legged companions.

Organizers also aim to select locations that are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. The Holliston Rail Trail was chosen for July's Nature Walk in large part for its accessibility.

The August Nature Walk will once again take place on the Holliston Rail Trail. Participants can meet at the Cross Street parking lot at noon on Sunday, August 30.

Additionally, the group will be hosting a craft event in the greenhouse at Fairmount Fruit Farm in Franklin on Saturday, August 15. Guests are welcome to come and go anytime from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at www.thetogethertrail.org.

The Together Trail welcomes anyone looking to meet new people, volunteer or spend time outdoors. Monthly nature walks are free, require no registration, and are open to individuals, families and dogs. All you have to do is show up!

As Pielocik's first Together Trail event demonstrated, sometimes just one person showing up can be the beginning of something truly meaningful.

Looking ahead, Pielocik hopes to expand The Together Trail into neighboring communities by encouraging local residents to start their own chapters.

For those interested in becoming involved, or to learn more about the organization and upcoming events, visit www.thetogethertrail.org or follow The Together Trail on Facebook.