Reviving Neighborly Acts of Kindness

Hello, Neighbor!

“I felt cared for 

by the neighborhood.”

Even as a child, I felt cared for by the neighborhood. I sensed I had a part in the story. In turn, I felt a joyful connection to my community. It fostered a lifelong momentum magnetized by acts of kindness to continue establishing the rituals of care in whatever neighborhood I found myself living.

Flash forward to busy lives and the quick ins-and-outs from the house as we do life. Do you really know your neighbors anymore? Do you feel the sense of connection to your community? 

We live in a digital world of likes and simple reaction icons. Often, nary time for even a comment. We’ve begun to lose our sense of neighborliness and connection. I submit a sweet day of reclamation: “National Do Something Good for Your Neighbor Day.”



— National Do Something Good for Your Neighbor Day  —

Establishing a Ritual of Kindness

May 16th is a day dedicated to sharing acts of kindness with your neighbors. When we reach out with moments of genuine care and thoughtfulness, we can begin to see others again. We can better understand how we are all connected. We can rebuild our communities by sharing joy and compassion. 

Reaching out to neighbors does not need to be a large-scale kindness revolution—It’s not necessary to bake cookies for your entire block or throw a block party. Although, those can be incredibly joyful gestures in a socially-aligned neighborhood. Not all neighbors and neighborhoods are as social as others. Respect and consideration should be at the forefront. Think simple, genuine acts rooted in human kindness. The effort will ripple out more than you can imagine.

— Small Acts, Wide Ripples —

3 Genuine Acts of Kindness

Say, “Hello!” - It sounds almost too simple, but it’s value is priceless. Simply taking a moment to wave from your home across the street can open hearts. Stop on your walk as a neighbor works in their yard to introduce yourself. Better yet, offer a compliment to the neighbor with the beautiful flowers. Ask them about them too, because they probably bring them joy. It will almost certainly make their day, and it will etch connections between you—likely giving way to a new friendship.

Acts of Service - The most fortunate neighborhoods are those that find the time to support one another. If you see a neighbor’s trash can out, take a minute to wheel it off the street and save them a chore on their busy day. When possible, help each other out with home tasks like weeding, raking leaves, and snow removal. Also try to participate in neighborhood cleanup days and social gatherings if offered.

Support each other with meals, childcare, and carpools when life gives way to bumps in the road. Taking the time and going the extra measure will lend itself to more time for getting to know each other, and maybe even learning new skills for yourself. 

Embrace the Digital Life - For most of us, social media is a part of our life. Embrace it in your own way, pay attention, and use it for good. Share recommendations for contractors, local shops, restaurants, babysitters, and home services. Word-of-mouth referrals for local companies harmonizes communities, strengthens our connections of care, and amicably enriches our neighborly culture.

“The most fortunate neighborhoods

are those that find the time to support one another.”

Do you see a neighbor who appears to be having a bad day? Reach out with a few words of support. If you are moved to do more, offer what you can. My favorite gesture is quietly leaving a small gift of flowers, veggies from my garden, a chocolate bar, or simply a little note at my neighbor’s doorstep. Sometimes I offer this up anonymously. Other times, I want my neighbors to know that I am here to lean on.

— Move Towards Magnetic Kindness —

We build strong communities by putting in the effort. Remember, it’s never too late to extend neighborly spirit. Take the lead—start small, and let the joy and connection ripple out. On May 16th, take the opportunity to start fresh, and move towards magnetic kindness with “National Do Something Good for Your Neighbor Day.”