|
Help a Neighbor Program
Of course a person out of work would be thrilled if we could give them a job, but of course we can’t. Nor are we able to restore a person’s health or take away the pain of a loved one. YET WE CAN HELP EVERY NEIGHBOR! NO MATTER WHAT THEIR PROBLEM!
How? By being a neighbor, by just being there in so many small ways. Our neighbor knows we can’t solve their problem; they not only will do that themselves; they will do it faster and better because they had a friend, a neighbor who cared about them and this caring gave them that little extra strength they needed.
Below are some ideas on how we can help a neighbor that we all can do everyday. In addition to looking at these ideas and using some of them to help your neighbor, please e-mail me your suggestions for helping our neighbors at george@realtyagent.com to be added to the list.
Regardless of the economic times we all have neighbors in need. Today, the number of neighbors facing difficult times has dramatically increased. While we care and want to help, we turn away because we feel that the help we “should” or would “like” to give is beyond our ability.
Ideas for Helping a Neighbor
Say “hi” to neighbor – too often we go in our house without the wave or hello – we all have the need to be acknowledge by others
Meet a new neighbor – hey that neighbor might be or become “someone”
Smile, even say “hi” to stranger in store or on the street – I know my “grump” has often been melted by a kind word from a stranger. There were vendors who sold some Spanish treat on my corner – last summer I made sure to say hi each night as I came home – while they didn’t speak English, I soon realized that my “hi” was meaningful to them.
Is there a neighbor looking for work that we could e-mail their resume to our “contacts” with a personal, “hey can you help my neighbor” note
Could you maybe save some money in the food store and pick up a couple can goods for the local food pantry – they need food every day
Maybe wear your “now” out of style winter coat another year and pick up a winter coat in Walmart for someone you know needs one (we all know some one)
Pick up the phone and say hi and/or I love you to a special person in our life. Don’t ask for something, just ask about them.
Friend/neighbor out of work – make it a point to call or stop by frequently – involve them in an activity – that little act will mean everything to them
Some one losing their home – is there a place they could rent? If renting, offer a letter of reference (yes, it does carry weight)
Is there an attorney who could help someone through foreclosure/short sale/bankruptcy – at a reduced rate. If these people had the money to pay the fees being charged, they would be able to pay the mortgage/bills.
Know those few dollars you saved….. treat a neighbor (who needs the “break”) to dinner at Applebee’s ($20 for 2 plus tip) and a movie while you watch the “kids” – could help save a marriage.
Neighbor needs to go into town for job interview, medical, shopping – could you offer a ride? Car pooling saves gas, which means saving money
Friend/neighbor suffered an illness that prevents them from being part of the “group” – bring the group to them – set aside time to visit – 5 minutes to them is worth millionst out
Somebody sick, not able to get out - call them every couple of days to say hi - just a couple of minutes.
Getting a coffee at company breakroom - ask a co-worker if they would like a cup.
Having a barbacue - invite a new neighbor or neighbor who is "having hard time" for what ever reason.
When inviting/having neighbor "over" who is having a "hard time" - no booze - booze is a depressant and something people under stress and depressed doesn't need.
Call mom, dad, a grandparent, an aunt, uncle today and tell them you love them - you both will feel special.
Relative - Friend who lives away? Send them a card (NOT VIA INTERNET - use the US Mail) - nothing brightens a day more than an unexpected card in the mailbox from a distance.
Some one can't make it to your house for a festive occassion but does live close by - make a plate of food or goodies and drop it off to them.
Don't buy a present - make a present - there are literally 1000's of things you can make that are both inexpensive and cheap - BTW aren't the most precious things you have, things made by others.
Make your own cards - Hallmark is great but your home made card is greater.
PLEASE E-MAIL YOUR IDEAS TO BE LISTED HERE TO: George@realtyagent.com
|
