Once upon a time, consumers stopped at the butcher for meat, the drug store for pharmaceuticals, and the grocer for vegetables and food staples. Now you can have the tires changed on your vehicle while you shop for groceries and your teenage daughter scavenges for clothing on the clearance rack—all under the same roof. You have to admit, those chain warehouse-size stores are enticing, and it's doubtful they'll go away anytime soon.

But turn your attention to the mom-and-pop shops just around the corner from your house, or the local farmers' market that sets up in a local lot on summer Saturdays. These independent small businesses are the meat and potatoes of your community, and keeping them alive is in everyone's interest.

Make Your Money Count
Frequenting stores within a few miles of your home saves you time and gasoline. When you patronize businesses that sell products from local sources, like local organic farms, it's a joint effort to save yourself and your neighbor's hard-earned money. Saving auto expenses gives you more to invest in your hometown.

Hidden Rewards
Your consistent business to local shops helps keep them afloat, but it also means the products you need are there when you need them, virtually a walk or bike ride away, if need be. If you don't see it, ask your local shop if they will stock it.

Boost Your Local Economy
Community keeps small town farms, artisans and employees working. When you buy from the people who live near you, support local government and independent businesses, you boost the vitality of your community, and make it an attractive place to live. Your neighborhood's walkability also affects your home's value. Having amenities within walking distance could boost your home's value by as much as $3,000.

Connections Benefit Everyone
Independent owners have more freedom to work with a customer, and to develop a beneficial relationship. A lot can be said for good service, willingness to barter and a business that really knows you.

Whether you live in a small town or a big city, the tight circle of shops and businesses around your home is your village. Shopping locally makes a difference not only in a community that survives, but in a community that thrives.