Believe me, if I knew a way to get back to a time when communities pulled together to help each other, I'd be the first to lead the charge. There are a lot of good people out there (and here on this site), that keep the spirit of 'community' alive, so maybe there's hope yet. I have a lot of issues with where my tax money goes, as well, and wish the govt. would be a civil 'servant', rather than an uncivil master, but it's been the trend since 1865.
Take hope! The "community" still exists. Your family, church, neighbors, those you see around you daily. :-)
I'm sorry if I came across as harsh. I have a strong skepticism of the way "government" handles our tax money. I believe too much of it is wasted, lost in the "shuffle", or never really helps the people it's intended for.