Building a Stronger Barrington: Bryan Hoffman’s Journey of Community Involvement
Bryan presenting the polar plunge funds to Tapin
Bryan Hoffman’s journey with community involvement in Barrington began in 2019 when he purchased his first home. Before settling in Barrington, his frequent moves made it difficult to feel truly connected to any one place. Once he became a homeowner, he reveled in the sense of stability and belonging it provided, sparking his desire to become more engaged in the local community.
The first stop on Bryan's evolving journey was joining the Barrington Business Association (BBA) and the East Bay Chamber of Commerce. These early involvements allowed him to connect with local business owners and residents, providing him with insight into the community's needs and opportunities. His increasing participation led to further responsibilities, including roles on the Economic Development Commission and as a member of the board of Barrington's own, Tapin.
In 2021, Bryan was invited to take over leadership of the BBA. Seeing an opportunity to expand its impact, he rebranded the organization as the Barrington Business and Community Association (BBCA). The rebranding effort included launching a new website and creating a fresh logo, all with the aim of strengthening the relationship between local businesses and the broader community.
Bryan’s passion for community work stems from his love of bringing people together, a passion he first discovered while volunteering with the Special Olympics in Jamaica Plain, where he coached various sports. This experience underscored the value of collaboration and community, shaping his approach to the initiatives he now leads in Barrington. While organizing community events comes with its share of challenges—such as finding volunteers and coordinating efforts amid people’s busy lives—Bryan remains dedicated to his role, often stepping in to fill gaps to ensure events run smoothly.
The first stop on Bryan's evolving journey was joining the Barrington Business Association (BBA) and the East Bay Chamber of Commerce. These early involvements allowed him to connect with local business owners and residents, providing him with insight into the community's needs and opportunities. His increasing participation led to further responsibilities, including roles on the Economic Development Commission and as a member of the board of Barrington's own, Tapin.
In 2021, Bryan was invited to take over leadership of the BBA. Seeing an opportunity to expand its impact, he rebranded the organization as the Barrington Business and Community Association (BBCA). The rebranding effort included launching a new website and creating a fresh logo, all with the aim of strengthening the relationship between local businesses and the broader community.
Bryan made one of his earliest significant contributions to the Barrington community through his involvement in the FLM FWD Film Festival, where he played a key role in organizing and encouraging local participation. Another initiative Bryan is particularly proud of is the Polar Plunge, a charity event he helped introduce to Barrington. Inspired by similar events across the Northeast, the Polar Plunge challenges residents to take a winter dip in frigid waters to raise funds for local causes. This January marks the third plunge, which has grown from 38 participants in its first year to 138 last year, significantly increasing funds raised for local charities
Bryan is focused on helping create a more connected and engaged Barrington. By supporting initiatives that foster community spirit, he aims to contribute to an environment where residents feel involved and supported. For Bryan, it’s about quietly making a difference in the community he cares about.