At the start of a new year, we often resolve to make change for ourselves and our surroundings. Embarking on a new decade, I reflect on what neighbors showed me in my first year as CEO of Nextdoor: that change can begin with simple acts of kindness and that gathering together in our neighborhoods can have a profound effect on our lives.
I experienced this firsthand as neighbors around the world extended invitations to their local gatherings. In Atlanta, I pulled up a chair with a dozen people who called the city home: neighbors, community leaders, public officials, local entrepreneurs. Our group came together to discuss a common goal. They had all been working on solutions—individually up until that point—to help neighbors in need of food security. With sleeves rolled up and arms outstretched, our conversation was productive. They left with more resources than they came in with; they left with neighbors to rely on.
The table in Atlanta was one of many where I witnessed the real-life impact of the online-to-offline connections that begin or are nurtured on Nextdoor. I’ve been to neighborhood fiestas in Spain, a local business owner meetup in Denver, a town hall meeting in Sydney, a community group in Canada. I’ve watched hands, both literally and figuratively, reach across tables, and oftentimes divides, to share problems, ideas, and support. Taking part in neighborhood conversations reinforces what I know to be true: what we have in common is greater than what separates us. Even these photos strike me as a collage of one large community instead of smaller ones sprinkled across the globe.
A year ago, I penned my first letter to you as CEO of Nextdoor. Since then, my team and I have been hard at work developing better ways to bring people closer to their local communities. We have seen a 25% decrease in reported comments between neighbors since launching our Kindness Reminder feature. There has also been a trend on the platform of neighbors coming together to form groups offline. I attended one meetup in Australia and saw for myself how it was transforming their community. A member named Delene called on neighbors to join her for breakfast during a difficult time in her life, and now the weekly club has led to countless friendships, support systems, and one marriage proposal. For some, it is simply a reason to leave the house. What we’re doing at Nextdoor continues to grow and the why only strengthens.
While we have a lot to celebrate from this past year, we recognize that there is still much to overcome in our communities: social isolation, the rise of incivility, increased polarization. Physician and The Rabbit Effect author Dr. Kelli Harding, has researched how neighborhoods and communities affect individuals’ wellbeing and affirms that the most important thing we can do for our health is to foster positive relationships. Dr. Harding shares: “A review of 148 studies with 308,849 participants found that active social circles increased a person’s likelihood of survival by 50% regardless of age, gender, or other medical problems.”
At Nextdoor, we know that cultivating more casual, low stakes relationships, like those with your neighbors, is often the beginning of something bigger. A chat at the local coffee shop, sharing what you did this weekend with a parent at pick-up. Explained in this article, sociologist Mark Granovetter calls these relationships “weak ties,” though their effects are anything but. These are connections that can help us feel less lonely and more empathetic, they are trusted sources for services, recommendations, even jobs. They are the examples of connections we see happen every day on Nextdoor.
As we work with experts to better measure and improve neighborhood vitality, we also turn to you as the ultimate experts on what powers your community. In 2020, we will be hosting gatherings in neighborhoods around the world, starting in New York City, where tonight in Brooklyn I’ll be hosting a get-together with neighbors of all kinds: local business owners, community organizers, families, and new friends. Next stop? You tell me: To host a neighbor gathering in your area with some help from Nextdoor, share here what makes where you live so special or in need of a gathering.
In this new year and new decade, Nextdoor remains committed to cultivating kindness in every neighborhood by instantly connecting you to neighbors you can rely on. We know we won’t always get it right; we expect your feedback, ask you to keep us accountable, and thank you for inviting us into your community. At Nextdoor, it takes a neighborhood—this year, I’m looking forward to getting to know more about yours.
Reminder: this is Nextdoor’s national blog. To connect with your local neighborhood, please login at nextdoor.com.
Follow @Nextdoor on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for company news and inspiring stories from neighbors around the world!
That’s marvelous! Sometimes all people need is a friend..someone to talk with.
Elizabeth..So TRUE ! One ”necessity” in Life IS Knowing you Have a Friend who .. is Welcoming For a chat even About What is Happening In their lives >>OR.. world events that Are so Troubling to US.. Things we Don`t quite Grasp. This is especially true When One has reached”the Golden years and >>Suddenly Find yourself “Only One’.. Whereas FOR Decades, YOU were A TWO. WE May PLAN out < How to Survive THE Years ..ahead..BUT Could not Fathom being ALONE In them. WE Just Don't realize the volume of sad this brings , until you experience it, firsthand. Kindness, even a simple Hello Goes a long way towards easing the Pain of someone..who suddenly becomes the ' One of the Twosome ' still left standing… ( yet doing their best to face the world alone… yet not ever wanting to become a burden,, in ANY manner..to anyone. ( There are SO Many of US Like THIS.. tho yet, having to 'row that lonely boat in a River of Uncertainties .' If only Everyone Realized the Value That a simple Smile and a friendly Hello Carries !! NEXT Door is a wonderful gift, And Offers Answers Where ONE THINKS there is None. Thank YOU< ""Next Door !!
This is so true. Also, there are those of us that have our “other” in a nursing home and they don’t even know us, let alone able to talk with us.
And there are those whose activities are limited because they are caregivers of an elderly parent with alzheimer’s. I’m homebound along with my mother.
I moved from Tualatin to Lake Grove this past July. was a caregiver for my mom too ! I loved it. She was called home to Our Lord in 2017 and I miss caring for her. If you ever need ANYTHING I would be happy to pick up anything or run errands or just come by for visit! I have my grandson on Fridays but can be pretty open. I get around really good but with spinal issues I can’t do any heavy work. Private message me anytime! God Bless
Coco: There may be caregiver groups in your community sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association. Sometimes it helps to share with them.
Cherish every moment. Sometimes you have to work through the grieving process as the Alzheimer’s slowly steals away your loved one. I took care of my parents the last 5 years of their lives and I thank God every day for that blessing. It can be an exhausting challenge. This was 30 years ago. I slowly made it through nursing school and have been an RN ever since. Most of my career was working in hospital. The past 3 years in long term care. I absolutely love my elderly extended family. Everyday they welcome me with smiles and hugs. Some may not remember me from day to day but they know I am familiar and love them very much. It doesn’t get any better than that. Anyway… If you are a loving exhausted caregiver.. I know we get folks sometimes that come stay with us 5 to 7 days for Respite Care to give caretakers a break. There is also an organization called Visiting Angels who send someone to care or just sit with your loved one so you can simply run errands and such. It’s not for profit. If qualify can even be free at times..you just pay what you can.
Just wanted to share and say God bless the caregivers. Stay strong and you will be greatly rewarded.
Awesome article. I’d love to help coordinate a meeting in Mount Juliet, Tennessee.
Hi Michelle,
I Good to help some on as lucky as your mom you have the right ming and gold with you mother loves you cant forget so do what you can while it is still light..love is for people that care for one another
Private message me.
I don’t know how.
Cici please contact your local Alzheimers Association. I am a facilitator with our wives/women’s support group. We meet monthly, have a snack and unload what has been going on with our loved ones. There is love, support and lots of understanding. You are not alone. Please call.
Esther, what a lovely biblical name. Thank you for your response. I will call my local association and sign up. I love my mother very much and I’m fulfilling my promise to my late father, that I would take care of his/my beloved wife/mother. She is a Godsend to me as I lived alone for 12 years prior to her coming to live with me. Thank you, again, to all who responded. God bless.
I can promise you that you will never regret the time you spent with your mom. My mom had a spinal injury and was unable to walk, stand or anything for 7 years before she passed. It was a privilege for me to be with her every day! God bless you for taking care of your mom
Hi Kathy, thank you for your comment. I love my mom dearly and I’m thankful that I am able to care for her, and enjoy having her in my home. I lived alone for 12 years before she moved in. I just wish my friends would visit. They know she has alzheimer’s and that she lives with me. Thanks, again.
Hi Cici
I work for an assisted living facility and soon after I started I learned that we have a resource care program. What this entails is you can bring your loved one to our facility for the day or for a week if you want to go on vacation.
Check with facilities in your area to see if they provide this service. I wish I had known about this because I was gone bound with my dad until he passed.
Hope this helps to give you some freedom….
Hi Cici,
My heart goes out to you. My Dad lived with my husband and me for awhile until he fell and broke his back. Then I stayed with him 24 hours a day at the hospital until he passed away two months later. During that time, he was delusional and not an easy patient to deal with. He thought the mafia was after him and that a big black lab was running up and down the hall! He kept trying to get out of the hospital bed. When he was in ICU, he was convinced the nurses were trying to kill him.
Do you have any magazines, books of puzzles, or jigsaw puzzles? Can you ask a friend to watch your mom for 2 or 3 hours periodically so that you can get out of the house and have a little time of your own?
Where are you located? I would be happy to mail you a goody box! I have magazines such as Texas Highways and Birds and Blooms and Readers Digest, or if you like more intellectual ones, I can send these, as well. If you like paperback books, please let me know what types you enjoy.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Best wishes,
Vicki Severson from Houston
Hi Cici not sure where you live I am in New York. I took care of my Mom for 10 years, the last three she was lost in the world of Alzheimers. When she passed I felt like I had lost her two times. She has been gone for 10 years. There wasn’t really the resources for a person to turn to then like there is now. The main thing to remember is take care of Yourself too because you are her caregiver and although she doesn’t know it you are her lifeline. If you haven’t already call groups or ask if there are people who come to give some help and respite for you. I was alone taking care of my Mom. Thank goodness for the last 6 months my Brother and sister heard me and stepped in to give me a hand. Hospice helped us and its not just for end of life they send health care aids who help to bathe,feed and other things. They are a huge support and because of them we were able to get medical equipment and support for Me too. My prayers are with you and your Mom. Sending you cyber hugs.
Growing old is an issue. Care giving is one of the most difficult job in many ways. Having neighbor support is really a huge help. Social contact is really helpful! A cup of coffee a kind word, just taking time to care about one another. As we get older I can see the loneliness as a couple or just one is a huge issue.. would love to have a senoir group.
Cici, I hope that someone in the family, or a close friend or maybe even a good neighbor will come to your aid & give you a break from time to time. It’s so important for your physical & mental health. I took care of my mom, too. It’s not always easy. God bless you.
If one of your parents was a veteran they can get a benefit called Aid and attendance. The spouse of the veteran can get the benefit even if the one that was the veteran has passed away. The benefit pays for someone from a company to come in and stay with them so you can go out or to work. They can just be a companion or someone who bathes them, helps them dress, fixes meals and does light house keeping. We got this benefit for my parents when they couldn’t be left alone and my sister had to go to work. You can print out the forms from Veteran organization websites. You can also contact social services and see if there is a relief program where you live. They will pick them up and care for them for several days to give you a break.
Hi Cici, I am RN actually a psychiatric and mental RN and I am Certified Dementia Practioner. God bless you. Caring for a dementia patient can be challenging at times but at the end of the day YOU were important to her all you can do is live in the moment and enter her world. That can be funny journey.
There is an abundance of help out there. Ther is the adult day care. Have her doctor or home health. They willl have an aide come help you with her ADL bathing dressing it can very educational. And if you need a break go see a friend shop just be alone and breath the CNA can stay and you go
Department of human service the adult services they to can assist you.
You are doing the right thing keeping her in home and this is the most rewarding thing. Helping her live in the moment not just merely existing..
You can contact me anytime. Helping dementia patients and their family was never just a job I love what I do
Cici: This is probably not true everywhere, but my local Meals on Wheels (San Antonio) has a super facility and day program called “Grace Place.” They have around 40 senior citizens with dementia or alzheimer’s who are left from 8 to 5 to give caregivers a break. It is professionally staffed with personnel trained on how to deal with the behaviors that may arise. Activities are provided that allow the visitors to feel dignity and a sense of purpose. I was so impressed when I visited. I realize you may not be so lucky as to live close to such a facility. I am hoping you have community, family, or church that will assist. Bless you for caring for your mother. I am concerned for you. If we live too far away, send me a private message and I will try to assist from long distance with finding some resources for you.
Cici,
Deep respect for you dear!
Start from home than spread that’s all my parents taught me 🙂
As a teacher I always consider my self my Son’s first teacher 🙂
Parents deserve the best and they are lucky to have you 🙂
I’m home bound with my husband that have Lewy Body Dementia.
It’s very lonely with no one to conversat with except for the dog. ☺
Gertie, You do not have to feel alone. I have some agencies that can help you!
Click on this link to connect with Family Care Alliance
https://www.caregiver.org/state-list-views?field_state_tid=64
https://www.chhs.ca.gov/home/departments/
https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/california/
Where are you located Cici?
I would be happy to
Come by and visit if I live close. I am in the Waxahachie TX area.
Barbara, thank you kindly but I live in Meridian Idaho. lucyakacici@gmail.com
And I do the same thing for my mom to me and my two sisters every day.
I felt so sad ,when I would leave my mom at her apartment I would look up and there she would be all alone waving goodbye in tho window.- She then got the curse of dementia .all was not lost thou, she still remembered some things. My two brothers, sister and I would keep her when we weren’t working I thought it wasn’t a bad idea. My brother wasn’t working so he and his wife were primary watchers then who worked filled in. They received money for her care. I know my brother loved her and would treat her well. I went over one day and I coul tell mom was angry and looking like she was going to lose it. Then she was out the door walking down the driveway. I asked him if he was going to get her he didn’t seem concerned he said she done it all the time but stopped atte end and would come back. I watched and she didn’t stop he still wasn’t concerned I said I was going to get her and they still didn’t think I should. I went down the driveway when I got to the end her little legs we’re going as fast as they could. Mom had always been a walker so l ran back got my car and went to get her. It was a busy road and I was really scared she would get hit. I caught up with her and I swear the little lady had gotten pretty far. I pulled up beside her and she wouldn’t get in. I said mom you have to get in my car she said nothing was going to make her go back. I said okay mum just get in and we can go for a ride. She was crying and I started crying and she was adamant she wasn’t going back. L said okay mum before we start we have to stop crying ?. I told her my car did not like crying women and we had to stop and be happy ? we both stopped I told her I loved her and I would take her home with me. Boy she stopped crying and went to my brothers so I could get her some clothes. I was really I was really steaming mad at them. I couldn’t believe they would treat her like that’.
Well even though she had dementia she was a really good manipulative mum. I was taught once again not too be so quick to judge. My sister,my brother and now I was going to learn what walk a mile in their shoes first.
You have a great outlook on life. I’m sorry for your loss and I wish you peace in your heart.
You stated so we’ll just the things all of us need to hear. A little expression to acknowledge another can mean the difference between heartache and wanting to see a better day.
So true…what a wonderful idea…love new friends
Hello Pat,I’m so sorry ?. I’ve been a care taker for 4 years.Our community needs grief counceling.Asked players club ,they said no. This is so needed. Help
This was very well said. I am a widow of 6 years now. I do have my grandkids near, but they have their lives. My children are scattered in and out of the country, I do have my church family, but at times I do get lonely. If I can be of any help to anyone in the Golden Hills neighborhood, let me know. I am a Christian and I can come pray with you or you can send me your prayer requests, I’d love to pray for and with you.
I moved from Tualatin to Lake Grove this past July. was a caregiver for my mom too ! I loved it. She was called home to Our Lord in 2017 and I miss caring for her. If you ever need ANYTHING I would be happy to pick up anything or run errands or just come by for visit! I have my grandson on Fridays but can be pretty open. I get around really good but with spinal issues I can’t do any heavy work. Private message me anytime! God Bless !
You are a good ,loving daughter .
That very kind of you offering to help people in need.
I’m always in need of pray I have a son that’s has Epilepsie
I would love to add you and your son to my prayers.
I will keep your son in my prayers. What’s his name?
Prayers for your son ?
i lived with epilepsy till i was 26 (48 years ago) suddenly the seizures just stopped. i like to think it was because people prayed for me. Now I will send my prayers to you and your son.
How do u get this on your phone
Go to Facebook on your phone and hit like. Then look for the blog.
Did you get an invite on your computer?
I would put that link in the top line of your phones browser and it should connect you.
Browsers like chrome, safari, or internet explorer
God bless you…… You have a beautiful heart that is very pleasing to the Lord.
Hello Linnea.
I am recently retired and I am a christian also just wanted to know where Golden Hills is? Louise
Hi my name charlotte Newman and I live off Greenburg road. I am a widow too. I just wanted to say hi.
For as much as you even give a glass of water to one of these… you have done it unto the Lord my sister….. a prayer, a hug, or just a phone call, can make the difference in someone’s life… it can even prevent a suicide. let us strive to reach out to the world with hands of love.
Veda,
Your posting truly touched my heart. It is something when you started out and now your one. My husband is still living but one never knows. I’m so grateful for my church family. Do you have a church home?
that sound like a nice way to meet people .. in my neighborhood nobody take time to get to know anybody, so we have no friend here .. we’ve here 11 years i have on one to have coffee or to talk to .boo
I’m in texas
Come on over.
Janice Allain
Looking to connect with other christian woman. I don’t know allot of people as i have a disability and I am not out and about. i am in the liberty chase on colonial street.
Veda, beautifully expressed. I know someone in Woodway Baptist Church who just a few weeks ago became ONE, and she would benefit, I am sure from a friendship with you and others on Nextdoor.
I am particularly grateful to my friends here on Nextdoor who mean far more to me than just “friends.” They are my prayer warriors who are with me still, having prayed my son through 4 months of cancer therapy at M.D. Anderson. This kind of friendship is better than ice cream, and ice cream is better than syrup. Do you know what I mean? My friends and prayer warriors on Nextdoor are priceless to me – they are my Nextdoor brothers and sisters. I know none of their faces, but I know their names, and I know if I have a concern or I want some advice, all I need to do is go to my computer, and Voila! My Nextdoor friends are there for me. And I am blessed!
Heal me I LORD, and I sh a be heaed; Save me and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise. Jeremiah 17:14 KJV Our God is awesome. I have been taking care of granddaughter (almost since birth), who has ADHD, ODD,Bi-Polar syndrome, PTSD, to name a few .? All of this while I deal with 5 chronic pain disorders and a few other , okay, a lot of things? And God’s Grace is sufficient. Have I been in the valley? NUMEROUS occasions. Tried to set up camp there. I was so flat on my belly that I needed a mirror to be able to look up! It is so important to have the right people praying for and with you. Keep praying and praising! Just 6 months ago had my 4th cervical spine fusion with plates and screws!
God bless you! I truly understand! My husband of almost 9 years died in 2000 at the age of 50 (cancer). I was 54. He was younger & should have lived longer than me! I am one of the twosome. It’s never the same in the social circle. No partner, less funds for the last 19+ years. Alone, but not lonely. My heart goes out to those of you who have partners who have health conditions that has them not knowing who you are. I have my two furry children along side of me. I’m blessed!
What truly makes a neighborhood? People
Excellent post Veda…and very true to life. Widows and widowers need to be able to share and have the comfort that others can relate. There is a wonderful grief ministry called GriefShare that’s nationwide. If you’re interested, please go to http://www.griefshare.org and put in your zip code…there may be a group nearby.
There is a GriefShare program that meets at Windwood Presbyterian Church on Spring Cypress every Sunday afternoon 1:30-3:30. Contact Mike Wells at
wellsmichael@yahoo.com for more
Information & to sign up or call the Church 281-378-4040 I can’t say enough about this program and how much it helped me when I lost my husband unexpectedly 7 years ago.
Thanks Phyllis for sharing that news with people in that area…I agree with you 100%…its a very well organized and extremely helpful ministry for those struggling with grief!
Thank you for writing this, Veda. It was so helpful.
I love next door and hope to become more active with it this year
So Truly spoken.
I left a Positive comment, why the “awaiting moderation”?
I imagine all comments are moderated, Donald, just for the purpose of screening out offensive or abusive comments.
Try contacting your neighborhood lead. They may be able to help you. This applies if you are a member of your Nextdoor neighborhood. I have never used this open blog, just the private Nextdoor app for my neighborhood and surrounding neighborhoods. Everyone is local and lives in a 2 mile radius.
I moved within NYC in Manhattan from downtown to uptown on the West side several years ago. Nextdoor was a useful resource as I got to know my new neighborhood and still is. I am impressed that exchanges are almost always civil and friendly in this time where civility is somewhat diminished. Am grateful for Nextdoor, which makes much possible that would not be without it.
I’m a grief coach, as well as a life and leadership coach. I just read an article on how serious loneliness is, and the enormous impact it has on health. Thank you for your insightful notes on next door. Caring for each other is important.
If anyone out there is lonely I have a channeled 41yr. Old daughter that I care for. She loves to Talk keep in the back of your mind there is always someone to talk to.!!
Good morning…. My wife and I attended griefshare meetings in our hometown (Md.) which help tremendously but as you know it is a lifelong struggle. Corinne is an author of over 10 children’s/enviornmental books but her greatest and most recent book deals with our grief over the loss of a son. It was just published this year as a resource book for children but really anyone coping with a loss will benefit from our venture into this world. Please check out “Ice Cream Cones and Heartstones” at her website CorinneLitzenberg.com. Books may be purchased directly from her site. Thank you for all YOU do to help others as everyone will deal with grief sometime in their lives! Blessings, Dale Schultheis
I have been involved in many different ministries, working with children of different
ages, a prayer warrior or intercessor, counseling at Love Lines years ago having
intensive training and covering everything an individual goes through in their life time on earth, especially serious loneliness, rejection, healthly and unhealthly relationships and to be able to connect with the right sources and receive the help and needs we all have from day to day. I have traveled and worked with missions but am taking a break as I just became a widow since June 15, 2019. Thank you everyone for sharing and caring as it means so much when you are grieving or healing and having to let go and continue our journey with God’s direction.
You are providing a wonderful service here. There is too little neighborliness in today’s world. Keep it up!
Curt S.
Salem, VA
Prayers,what is his name. How old is he. I bet he makes you smile God bless you and your family. Warrior
https://widowsvoice.webs.com/apps/blog/
Please young widows take the time to visit the above website. This young Lady has a blog that has helped countless of young widows. Please take the time to read her interview at
http://voyagedallas.com/interview/meet-danyell-shaw-widows-voice-desoto-tx/
I’m a widow too but I’ve been blessed with siblings that live close by and with children, grandchildren and a wonderful church family. That’s what kept me going along with prayer. That was twenty plus years ago. I understand the pain of losing a spouse.
I pray for comfort, peace and needs fulfilled for everyone that’s lost a spouse young or old.
So glad I joined Nextdoor! It’s great to share with neighbors online, and hopefully offline. Thank you for the great letter!
That’s a wonderful testimony to have such folks in your life!
Hi everyone,
I have a friend in her late 70’s who lost her husband in the past few months.
I am looking for a widows group for her or a grief support group. Can someone tell me where to look. I’ve found a few, but they were disbanded. Thanks
This is a wonderful site . The letter from you is inspiring as well,I feel I possibly have the very best neighbors ever. Anything I need all Zi have to do is text or call . These two people even went to store for me a few weeks ago grabbed 3 boxes of wonderful tea, cold tablets because I was so sick . The time came for me to pay for the items and they would not take a penny. When I spoke with her later I said please let me pay and the answer was no all they wanted from me was to get better. They have been with me through physical therapy 3 times a week picking me up then returning later. So much more but these two were meant to live next door to me and I feel so blessed .
I absolutly agree! It’s a true blessing and I commend and appreciate your dedication..
Thank you much??
This is so profound and so well said. I’ve been a widow a little over two years now and it is indeed lonely. Even with the outside activities, if one is able to get out and do them don’t fill all your time or needs. Neighbors are a great blessing and I am very blessed to be surrounded by very good ones. One especially is always ready and willing to help. I just have to reach out and ask. They even take my trash cans to the curb if I forget or am unable to do it. They are a true blessing. Good luck to you all with your local neighborhood associations.
Oh so true..I am one of those mentioned above, and am so grateful for having neighbors who would be there for me if and when needed., and just a phone all away!
Mary – Thank you for sharing your story. I’m so glad you have a great set of neighbors to rely on, and I’m sure you give back just as much!
Very well said! We live in waynesville, NC and know 2 of our neighbors as we haven’t been here that long. Enjoy this website and looking forward to meeting more of our neighbors!
Amen!
Veda, Wonderful post. Very well said. You have written what I couldn’t express. Thank you!
Beautifully Written! Thank you
This was so poignant and yet so true.
I live in a suburban neighborhood In the Midwest where one woman suggested that retired women meet and split into groups based on their interests (book groups, crafts, walking groups etc.).
This has exploded into a movement. More retired women want to meet their contemporaries and do the activities they are passionate about. Way over a hundred plus women want to join each other.
This all came about because of Nextdoor and the availability of local messaging.
Thanks for having an avenue for interaction.
I just happened to notice this today. I sincerely empathize with you my dear. Even though I am not a widow, I have been between marriages and remember how lonely that short period of time was in my own life. I recognize that it could never compare with your present situation though! I just want to say hello and encourage you not to ever despair! I surely hope people in your neighborhood reach out to you there soon. I have no idea if you are a person of faith, as I am, but I have found that women’s Bible studies at many churches are a wonderful resource to not only meet others like yourself, but to learn more about God and grow in your faith. Take care and God bless!
I love what you said. I was a lonely “one” . Now I am a “two”. But I am 81 and if I lose my love I don’t even want to think about it!!
Blessings to you Veda. I do so understand what you are saying. It is very difficult to have to adjust to the new normal of losing a spouse. I do hope it is becoming less painful. It doesn’t happen overnight but it does get better.❤??
Veda, I totally agree 100 percent on your well written reply.
So true…what a wonderful idea…love new friends
I think neighbors app is awesome
I thought that I was the only elderly person with not too many people to rely on. Friends move away or pass on and it is difficult to make new friends. At this time of the year some people that I call friends are in Florida for the winter, which makes me feel like I hibernate all winter.. Thanks for listening and understanding what the golden years are really like for some of us.
Right on Veda, I recently became The one….and the loneliness is so intense..,.nobody seems to understand, thank you for sharing and putting it out there.
So well said.
You really said it! That’s so true!
that was a very true statement. Im sure happens to a lot of people. I would think very hard.
VERY TRUE…THANKS FOR SHARING!!!
I am with YOU, Veda!!!!!
its hard when you where two and now you are one you just have to carry on and to find someone who cares .
there are no neighbors who will just pop over here.
You talk about World events and trouble that America, and you ain’t gonna talk Politics? That’s why mainstream America doesn’t have a clue! Now, back to yarning…
Well, love, you brought a tear to my eye. I lost my wife and best friend of many decades 15 months ago. I won’t repeat your concise and sensitive thoughts. Suffice to write that learning to walk alone is a hard walk. Being a social animal has aided me. I’ve stayed in contact with friends and relatives but the time alone when we two shared our thoughts are the most difficult of life’s moments. Yes, one does tempt to perceive the future as a couple.
The old bromide: what changes when you lose a loved one,,,? EVERYTHING
I’ve experienced, in this moment in time, that people are essentially good and kind. They make the walk less painful.
Very nice.
Awwww!! I pray that our Creator, Father, and Lord comfort your heart with his love, give you in every new morning the strength, joy and hope only He knows you need to make you feel that you are loved by Him and by many other people around you and every night the peace for you to feel his presence.
Veda, your comments and thoughts are all so true and beautifully expressed. I am a senior experiencing all that you mentioned. Thank you. A smile and friendly hello keep many of us from caving in to loneliness and sadness. Next Door has shown me that my neighborhood is full of very kind and loving people and who will answer questions I have or offer suggestions about dealing with life’s daily problems and repairs and resources. It is a comforting backup to living in a troubled world especially if one is old and /or alone.
Thank you for reaching out, Margaret! How simple to spread kindness with just a smile and a friendly hello…great reminder for all of us every day.
So eloquently stated!
Your authentic words are such a breath of fresh air for me. I think no matter our circumstances, we all need that smile or kind words to gently unburden life challenges. Thank you
Many years ago I was in a grocery store line waiting to check out and saw that the woman in front of me looked defeated and broken. I asked her if she could use a hug. She practically fell into my arms and whispered that she had planned on committing suicide that day because she felt that no one cared. She also said she would not be following up on those plans.
I love telling people how pretty they look or how lovely their hands are. They usually say how that compliment has made their day. It actually makes my day as well just to say it.
Yes. I’m baffled as to why the Senior Center in Marine offers nothing to seniors in the way of gatherings, games and getting to know each other.
So true
When do they have meetings I would like to getn involved
Sure
thx for the service!
pls allow us to fwd a post outside of nextdoor.com; e.g., to an email.
I totally agree. Having someone just listening means the world
Yes, Elizabeth that is what I need…thank you
That is Great but not during the flu season. ??
Starting with childhood and into adult hood, it is up to us to make friends. I don’t expect anyone else to do that for me. We know our neighbors so why are we being told what we should do when we already do the same? All of our self-responsibility is fading away because we expect someone else to do things for us. A sad situation we are into in this world today.
Yes I could use some. I don’t drive and my three best friends over the past few years they have pasted away. So I’m alone except my husband who goes nowhere
Where do you live? I know a friend that enjoys talking with very encouraging, uplifting and interesting conversations.
HELLO NEIGHBOR BLOG. AM SO HAPPY TO BE A PART OF THIS GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD AND ABLE TO KNOW MY NEIGHBORD. THE BLOG IS GREAT TO READ
You are so right
You are right, Elizabeth. I live with my daughter and her husband, but both work every day. I was active until about 3 years ago but old age has caught up with me. I still do freelance work from home, but would like to have a neighbor to chat with over coffee now and then or to go out with once in a while, since I cannot drive anymore. Tried to connect with a neighbor through the local Nextdoor e-mail a couple of years ago, but when we met in person and she realized I am a transplanted European speaking with a slight accent (college-educated here in the States) she ran away in panic, never saw her again although we live only two doors apart. It’s a good thing to see this willingness to extend a friendly hand to your neighbors, but there is little interaction where I live.
I just cannot believe someone could be that low minded to act that way over something so silly. We all have some accent or another, as each state/ and/or community have their own way to say words and who use slang, and pronounce our vowels differently, etc. Just unbelievable. She was not worth of your wonderful friendship. Although it is possible she has some sort of mental issue which a certain accent may trigger.
Oh I agree!! I hope you live in Pittsburgh!
I couldn’t agree more. A good friend with a lot in common is hard to find.
That’s for sure! I’ve found, though, that many friends want to keep conversations light and in the surface. If you begin n to share a problem, they are very uncomfortable and start to look around. They want out. It takes a very special person to listen when you have something difficult to share.
Seems like Sarah is doing a great job to build the Nextdoor brand and sell it, and get her $B and get out.
Sorry but skeptical about the narrative on this blog.
I agree Elizabeth. ???
This is wonderful to an extent, and for its purposes as presented in the article. While I realize the purpose and intent of the gatherings and sit-downs are not designed to address the concerns I’d like to share, I do believe they should at least be offered.
When neighborhoods are composed of a wide array of demographic markers, race, social class, economic well being, ethnicity, religion, region of the country/city, exposure to and first hand interaction with a wide range of people, it takes more than a sit down to even commence a conversation.
Different demographic groups have different definitions and expressions “getting to know you” and the meaning of “friendship”. Not everyone meets new people and engages with neighborhood sit downs. It is simply not the way they do it. It is rather presumptuous to assume that “everyone” would feel comfortable doing it “that way”.
Further, merely sitting down over coffee and picking up one another’s children after school does not address the reality that priorities, perception of needs and “problems” vary from group to group. Some people are concerned about restaurant openings and closing. Others are concerned about housing and employment. Some are concerned about interacting with authorities, and may have very different experiences that frame their perceptions of interacting with them. Some come from cultures where you simply do no speak to people as you walk down the street. Others are offended when people do not acknowledge what they feel is a human presence. Some people are concerned about packages being taken off a porch (as well they should be).
Others are concerned about their children being taken away by untoward circumstances. Some are able to discern who they encounter and what to do, others paint all of “them” without being able to discern who might be a problem, and what to do about it. There are different ways of dealing with miscreants, indigents and eccentrics. Some say if you want a neighborhood with character, you gotta have some “characters” around. Some would see guy on the corner dancing to a beat only he can hear as “a character”. Others would want him taken away and locked up.
Some would ask “why” the juvenile hall in the city has a budget of $100,000,000.00 and the job training and literacy budget is $25,000,000,00 Some believe that the neighborhood is being “improved and cleaned up”. Others are absolutely stunned and amazed that streets, alleys, parks that they having been complaining about and asking for for years and years are suddenly being paved, refurnished, and beautified in almost an instant. Some can share folders an inch thick with letters and complaints requesting attention to rodents, street lights, cross walks, and weeds in vacant parks. They watch in awe that, suddenly, these same concerns are expeditiously “taken care of”.
Any discussions that do not address the very real, substance, demographically based concerns of how people meet and greet, what they are concerned about and the realties of alternate realities runs the risk of being superficial, artificially “friendly”, and the unspoken requirement is that is be done “our way”, or in a way that “we” feel “comfortable” and “safe”.
It takes a very skilled facilitator and very aware, secure people to meet a group full of differences and not need everyone to “make them feel comfortable”. The photos above depict a range of demographics that might be suggestive of some of the thoughts being shared here. Building “community” across cultural and demographic markers is deep profound work to find ways of substantively addressing the concerns and priorities and ways of being that are often perceived and experienced as being in direct opposition to one another. What constitutes a win-win for all of those at the tables? Who even knows what a “win-win” looks and sounds like, and addresses all the disparate, legitimate concerns?
What we do know is that it takes secure, open people to “come to the table” so that everyone deeply, and genuinely is heard and fed.
You mentioned a wide array of people and problems. Everyone can bring something a little different to the conservation. If we could just slow down and listen and learn and care.
That is so true.
Amen and that’s for real it helps to have someone to talk with in these trying times. Just a kind word mean so much.
How can we bring this postivity into our neighborhood (east side Saint Paul ); trust has been gone and disappoint. Our state and government officials broken system and homeland security are corruption…too many families are separated and deported…too many crimes and distance from the laws..
Yes. So true.
Best wishes Sarah for all your hard work.
Unfortunately our Nextdoor has been nicknamed Next Gripe.
I am on the Board where I live and it’s very disheartening when you work hard in a volunteer job and get constantly stomped on by some people in your community on social media.
Hopefully going forward the in civility will turn around.
Nextdoor used in the right forum is a valuable resource.
Hi Annmarie.
was looking at your words of love and to make others know God is always there for us all if you can respond to this i have some time we can talk. small Business owner.
Hi Annmarie, I am so very sorry to hear this is happening. We are committed to making Nextdoor a neighborhood hub that is a welcoming place for all neighbors. As an example, working closely with academics, we recently rolled out a feature called the Kindness Reminder, which encourages people to slow down and think before they post. In the three months of being live, unkind comments are down 25 percent!! And we are continuing to work hard on this. Thank you for taking the time to write—this is a topic that we care deeply about. And thank you for working to cultivate kindness in your neighborhood.
I see the griping sometimes, but overall Nextdoor is such a positive addition to my life that I ignore the gripes. Those people tend to be the people who would gripe in any situation!
As we go into the New Year, and a New Decade, let us always be cognizant of why we are here. This is not our permanent dwelling place. We are all going to die someday. Really.
On one of my earlier posts, I posted that those who live the longest, happiest lives have one thing in common. National Geographic writer and explorer Dan Buettner found by studying the world’s “Blue Zones” — regions of the world where people live the longest — that practicing religion at least once a week is worth “between four and 14 extra years of life expectancy.” The benefits of weekly (or more) Churchgoers are multiple. Healthy living (no church supports excessive drinking or drugs),
Baldwin Way, an associate professor of psychology at Ohio State and co-author of a recent study on religion and life expectancy, writes that “many religions promote stress-reducing practices that may improve health, such as gratitude, prayer or meditation …” Prayer alone has been shown to decrease stress, heart rate, and blood pressure. Prayer is communicating with God, your creator.
Faith, in particular, gives people a sense of purpose and the knowledge that life has meaning. As Catholic Christians, we believe that life is more than just our time here on earth and that living life well now prepares us to more fully receive the abundant life in heaven. We believe that everything we do, everything we suffer, has meaning and purpose. This understanding gives us hope when life is difficult and more full joy when life is going well.
In his studies on Blue Zones, Buettner found that people who live to be 100 or older proactively surrounded themselves with a strong community, specifically a faith-based one. Being surrounded by people who hold the same values and who desire to live a good life provides us with deeper connections and constant support.
This decade, starting in 2020, which is very apropos in that 2020 means clear vision, let us all strive to have a clear vision in our lives. To see God in everyone. To see the poor and strive to help them. To see the weak and try to protect them. To see the downtrodden and try to lift them up, to see wrong and try to right it. to see the sick and try to heal them. And to see God in our own lives, because every breath we take and every beat of our hearts is a gift from Him. Strive to grow closer to Jesus this year and you can only do it by reading Scripture (St. Jerome said, “Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ) and upping your prayer life. Don’t let a day pass without thanking God for something in your life.
Happy Blessed New Year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I think it all sounds great.
Beautiful letter Sarah….
I would happily organize a meeting in our Anthem neighborhood.
We have a oil and gas fracking happening all around us and it has caused quite the division. I think we need some Sarah time.
This is a wonderful idea. People need to understand each other so that they can better communicate. Some people need more diversity in their lives so that they can see we are all the same.
Like to talk sometimes and write to people sometimes; I got a lot of pen pals when they wrote any service member during Desert shield/Storm and we send Xmas cards to each other and that was over twenty years ago. Met my wife as a penpal and we been married over 44 years. Join Marine Corps in 71 and retired in 96. Hey told you like to talk sometimes and now I’ll be quiet
When I retired in 96 I joined Medic and used to be a super donor until 2010 and also did/do 5k runs for charities in 3 counties(just local) did a few in Paint Rock for the school. Go by JD every since join Marine Corps in 71 retired in 96. Like I said earlier use to like to talk.
I am not happy to get part of every message and have to sign in every time to see the rest of it. Not worth it. At 92 I find technology pretty daunting.
Good manners are never out of style. Kindness and civility should be the order of the day. Thank you for promoting it.
This is a very nice site. People here have been kind and friendly. And I like learning about things that are going on in our community. I have met some very nice people in person too. Keep up the good work!
Please count me in. What an incredible concept. We need each other. Thank you, Helen
Totally agree ?
Ditto that!!! I have lived 8 years totally by myself. I have no friends or people to talk to. There aren’t any groups to attend. Old sucks!!!!!!!
Where are you? I’m in Manassas, VA.
That’s a good way of finding compatible friends.
In my neighborhood of Malibu section of Virginia Beach Virginia I post a morning prayer for God to bless my neighbors and their families and friends as they go throughout the day
I agree.
These gatherings and initiatives are key to mending the social fabric of a community. I was a VISTA Volunteer in McKeesport PA in 1968 and witnessed this first hand. I’ve just written a history of VISTAs in Pittsburgh during the early years, and in talking with seventeen former colleagues, it’s amazing how many have similar stories. Anyone interested in the article can send me an e-mail.
David, I would greatly appreciate your offer of the articles you mentioned. One can always learn
Much from others, thank you for
Your kindness and God bless.
David, I would greatly appreciate your offer of the articles you mentioned. One can always learn
Much from others, thank you for
Your kindness and God bless.
I totally like that I can help my neighbors out. I have beautiful neighbors and I love them all.
David,
Both my wife and myself are from McKeesport and it is a real shame how the old hometown has deteriated.
What is a Vista Volunteer?
Jack
Yes Sarah thank u for ND, while we have learned more about neighborhoods suggestions for issues have been helpful, while we have had to work with situations on diversity it still has helped with being better.
VISTA report, thx
Hi David, I would love to have a copy of the article. Thanks
I need your help in getting a neighborhood grou startd
I’ve relocated, live alone and feel alone. Connections are blessings and they can transform into deep and cring friendships.
Would love to get a copy David. Thank you.
It will be nice that at least could to know our neighbors. I know that many elderly people is living alone . Nobody know when they will need some help and there are many that could help them.
We have very busy life but everybody can help.
I would like encourage everyone to take a moment ans visit your next door neighbor.
You are right about that .
This is a good suggestion. I tried several years ago to start a daily contact phone tree with a number of senior ladies from my church, who met at my home to get to know each other better.
Meaning, to start the tree the first senior would call the assigned senior person every day just to say hi and make certain they are OK or if they need help or just someone to talk too. Once they get to talk to each other they could call anyone not the one assigned at the beginning. That would assure that every Senior in that group would get a call . That senior is to call another senior and so on until it get started. No one would be missed because they receive a call. I was the only one who did the calling, the others never participated so I stopped. Just food for thought.
What a great idea. I hope you have an opportunity to restart your group. Some times good ideas take time to catch on
Their loss mloss s my u for trying
Good idea
yes we all need some one to talk to.
I agree….
I agree
Victoria I agree. We should know who our neighbors are.
I totally agree with your statement i believe we should know who’s all around us. And let to know each other and watch out for our kid’s when there playing outside is there anyone near or on pansy dr Cleveland please let me know.
My mother always said treat people how you want to be treated… if it is with kindness…the world will be a better place
Totally agree
Rhonda, Your mother was spot on! That is the way I live my life, what goes around Comes around.
One additional thought, If you want a steadfast friend, Get a Dog!!!
Ronda you have a wise and compassionate mother too. Thats what my mom taught.
This site has been a great help to me. Thank you.
Do you live in Spokane, Tom?
I try to keep up with most of the posts in our neighborhood. “Indian Hill” Worcester, Ma. I think we have a great neighborhood and for the most part what you say is true. This is a wonderful resource and does bring neighbors together in various ways. I am glad to be a part…
I love our Nextdoor site! Welcoming new neighbors to our community is one way to meet people you may not typically meet otherwise.
I like your kindness reminder feature. Especially in a world where things are constantly changing and for all the good in the world there is also evil. Keep up the good work.
More good than evil, though.
We should all be Kinder neighbors, friends, able to help look out for each other. But these days, this decade and others to follow it will be difficult. Step lightly as not to offend. Not to light so we could help
maybe we could have a bi-monthly meeting to address our concerns about our neighborhoods.
Good idea. I started a NW, neighborhood watch, in my neighborhood. It’s been well received.
how do join. This is wonderful
Very nice letter, and a wonderful reminder of the power of kindness. I particularly love how our neigborhood Nextdoor has been helpful in finding dogs that have lost their way and reunited them with their owners.
thank you so much, I live on Upper Westside of Manhattan and would love to get together with my creative neighbors
I enjoy NextDoor. It is the one place to find good references for contractors and other services. You know that the people who recommend them have actually used their service. It is also good to find out the contractors that people are unhappy with. I enjoy the back and forth of the national and state politics section and am glad that NextDoor put it as a separate section so that it does not appear on the general page. I think that this is a fabulous place to connect with people. As a new resident to the area, I have made many new friendships through this site.
This is a reply I made to one of our ‘leads’ who advised us of this blog posting:
Abe- ICYMI Nextdoor is listed in Govt. Technology Magazine’s 5th annual list of “companies to watch” for their mission to enrich ‘civic engagement’. I remember they made the list all 4 prior years. As a relatively young company (est. in 2010), it is a ‘feather in their cap’. I’m glad we have such a vibrant & active community utilizing their social network! A lot of it is due to the impetus you have given our community. Congratulations again!
NEXTDOOR has already profiled Abe Walker’s efforts to aid civic engagement in the Kingstowne, VA. neighborhood community.
I found lots of help and recommendations using Nextdoor! Go on everyday!
It is a useful tool for local community information. However, it does lead to over zealous folks to shut down comments and disrespect another’s thought or expression. The platform is great to share different ideas and even thoughts of local issues including politics. But I will restate if you make a comment against a zealots preferred interest the shut down of speech is on. I do a local ministry of service and respect my neighbors. Yet there are topics that should be addressed that affect our local community. We can be all good neighbors and respect one another. A will close that being a good neighbor doesn’t mean we have to sing kumbaya together.
You talk here about communities “out there,” but there is also a community within Nextdoor, the Leads who spend hours of uncompensated time and effort keeping individual neighborhood units on an even keel, herding cats, reviewing reported posts, intervening to try to head off incivility, etc. Nextdoor is built entirely on the backs of Leads who cost Nextdoor nothing. A look at the Leads forum would show you a high level of frustration with the lack of tools that would help us be more effective and policies which are poorly explained and implemented. I suggest you spend a little time there — and you won’t even have to get on a plane!
Exactly!
I absolutely agree!. Leads invested in this wonderful concept must have more Nextdoor support if it will succeed.
I agree, Diana B! thanks for posting that.
Hi Diana, I could not agree with you more about the importance of our neighborhood Leads. They are fundamental to building stronger neighborhoods. We are constantly working to improve tools and training, and expect more to come on this in 2020! Thank you so much for this valuable feedback and for all that you do as a neighborhood Lead.
One question
Why when one post a service (it does not post on the top of the list? as new? Sometimes the post will post several posts down the page. I think this is an issue and it can be fix.
I love to find out if there is someone in my neighborhood that wants to send time with a neighbor and talk.
Hi,My Husband &, I would Love to Pray & Talk with Anyone Who needs encouraging words That’s our Calling..By the way where do u live We Live in Mississippi.. Anytime of Day or Nite..Here to Help..?
Where do you live?
Me too David, I would love to find one too that love to talk.
8 feral cats moved into my backyard and adopted my family as their own, and their caregivers. Their health and lives are better with help and much encouragement by my neighboors. I’m happy to see this blog and the faces and stories of the people who built and keep this site running for neighbors – and their pets. You’ve done a great thing. Please keep up the good work.
We just need to be neighbors, loving, caring with a good neighbor hood watch. ?
Keep up the great work really enjoy being with you guys
I think it is amazing.
yes
I love Next Door! It can be so helpful for many of us. This is where I found my new Vet for my dog!
The new Nextdoor initiatives are consistent my own hopes that I can live in a neighborhood rather than a subdivision and my efforts for several decades to work toward than end. I viewed Nextdoor as a very helpful tool to help make that happen. However, since the end of July I have been trying to get mapping errors corrected to no avail. Once a volunteer expert simply disappeared, and when the necessary information was forwarded to ‘the mapping team’ it might as well have gone down a black hole. For a platform that is address based I can not understand why basic errors with the map interface can not be routinely remedied. For me, it draws into question just where Nextdoor’s priorities lie.
I love Nextdoor. However sometimes I am mystified about why some threads vanish!!! One time one of mine, a very funny post that made people laugh suddenly disappeared. Just recently a thread about shoveling snow from sidewalks disappeared also when there was no unfriendliness at all in it!
I read in Sarah Friar’s letter:
“I’ve watched hands, both literally and figuratively, reach across tables, and oftentimes divides, to share problems, ideas, and support.”
I thought that was one of the purposes, reach across tables and divides, get us to become more unified. So why cancel threads and posts that do just that? That is very puzzling to me.
Otherwise, it is a very good idea in these times where people become more and more recluses stuck to their digital devises. But please, don’t deny us the humanizing effect of being able to “reach across tables and divides.”
If someone in Charleston needs cleaning or senior care Tracey Cloyd on 160 is awesome. She is an expert healthcare provider and after she retired at age 50 lol moved. She worked for the medical community as she knew it well. She cleaned for medical facilities, Cummins, Hospitals and Doctors offices. She is wonderful and kind. She was a caring angel, healthcare administrator and wants to work again. She is kind, hard working and is not afraid of anything.
I think it is a “great idea”…people need to feel they are not alone and “Next door” gives you that open door to feel like I can reach out and not feel “awkward” about doing so. It is a healthy approach to living free of mental stress and anxiety which so prevalent in todays society…so like the song says “reach out and touch somebody’s hand..make this world a better place if you can. And that is when being kind to someone does not cost anything.
I need your help in getting a neighborhood grou startd
I’ve relocated, live alone and feel alone. Connections are blessings and they can transform into deep and cring friendships.
While I note and agree with many of the comments espousing neighbors working together and getting along, I have been instrumental in asking NextDoor to take down topics which have been presented as mere talking points and developed into all-out war between neighbors. I think the decisions that ND has made makes the difference in this forum remaining one as described in the above articcle. A simple post aimed at informing the community that a suspect had been apprehended in a stabbing outside the local Popeye’s wound up with people attacking each other over what actually transpired in the aftermath of the encounter that led to the stabbing, people even using profanity and calling each other out over trivialities. Thanks to the staff for reviewing my complaint and removing the initial post. Mind you, this post was put up by the body of PGC Police Department responsible for notifying neighbors about captures. I hope that people are more careful in the future as to what should be shared on a forum such as this and that it is not a substitute for social media.
Dear Nextdoor, please stop shuffling the posts to try and appeal to our interest level. We need them in order so we see what is new. We can’t find posts we were responding to, and we are seeing old posts for garage sales that have passed weeks ago. Please just let them post in order so we know what is happening today – that is, right now. It is impossible for you to guess what we are truly interested in and it is more important for us to see what is current. Thank you.
Hi Gail! You can control how your newsfeed sorts posts with these instructions: https://help.nextdoor.com/s/article/How-to-sort-your-newsfeed?language=en_US.
Hope it helps!
Hi Gail, here are instructions for how to sort the order of posts in your newsfeed: https://help.nextdoor.com/s/article/How-to-sort-your-newsfeed?language=en_US
hope this helps!
Amen to not shuffling the posts. We get a nice conversation going about something and suddenly all you see is old posts from last week, and can’t find the thread you were following. Keep them in order, please, newest to oldest.
Also I would love enforcement of requirement of folks using their own names like we had to in the beginning. Now people have made-up names and you don’t trust them the same way you trust a neighbor who is a “real” person.
I’m glad all this is being presented because I am new to nd and many times I have gone back to find entries and they’re gone and days later I find them in a different unrelated post. I am close to giving up on using the info and just using it for “daily news”
Gail, I agree with you on this. I enjoy Nextdoor too, and appreciate the time and effort of the volunteers. Keeping posts in order, deleting old garage sales, posting articles for sale in the proper place instead of right in the middle of informational posts, and maybe putting those in “time out” for being shameful, profane and mean is an idea. Thank you.
Completely agree ro stop shuffling the posts!!
I have been reading some of your writings and am very impressed. Since I am now alone, my last relative has been gone for years. I lived in Massachusetts for over 69 years now live in Zellwood Station. I came over to the States when I was about 20 years of age from Wales. I can honestly say I have never been more settled in my life until I came to Zellwood Station. I have a good friend here who had me learn about computers , but there is much I don’t understand. I l love meeting new people and I travel around quite a bit, to the Caribbean and Hawaii and England. I will leave my name and how to contact me
This is so inspiring.
I look forward to the upcoming year with Nextdoor.
Over the nine or ten months I’ve been a member of my local NextDoor community, I’ve found this resource very useful. It helps people, especially single seniors like myself, feel connected to the wider world. And it gives one access to services such as handymen and tradespeople I might not otherwise been aware of. So than you for providing this valuable service.
Grateful for Nextdoor, especially when moving to a new city and starting fresh. It is very comforting to know that there is a welcoming community on Nextdoor in both cities and suburbs alike 🙂
Veda – thanks but question why are items left so long on Next Door- who should edit this? Our lead is not attentive if that is the person. Events have passed or items posted were over 4 up to 6 months ago?
Looking forward to the new ideas of Nextdoor.
Oh, I can comment here, too? Well the reason I stopped by this Next Door website is that I’ve enjoyed being a member for awhile, but I have just noticed an item that said the CEO of Next Door is Sarah Friar. But as soon as I saw that, I was confused (OK, I often am, I’m going to be 87 next month – I hope…). Why? Well as far as I’ve ever known, friars have always been men – but it’s evident that Sarah is a female member of the species – so how can that be? Maybe somebody can clear up my confusion, but in the meantime, I’m just going to wish her well, because she seems like a nice person trying to do good works. (OK, OK, I frequently do enjoy being silly, but that’s just me…..)
John Connell
Bellingham, Washington
I was downsizing and had no idea what to do with my “stuff” until I found nextdoor.com – it’s been my go to ever since. I have given away everything from a Jerry Garcia doll, to tin advert signs to glasses and dishwater. Not only has it been extraordinarily satisfying but I have found the people who I’ve encountered have been so nice and considerate. After giving away so much stuff, one neighbor called to find out if I was alright… I couldn’t believe it. I trust this crowd for recommendations – have found my cleaning lady and upholsterer and they have both been outstanding. I’ve continued my relationship with the site and intend to enjoy this uplifting feeling for a really long time –
Kindness is a gift that any near it get to enjoy.Those giving, those receiving, any any who witness it.
I totally agree with all the comments.we need a community that is togetherness like some of you already said it but sometimes you just someone to express your feelings.am glad am on this forum..love you all keep the love stronger to our community for better us and our kids.
How truly wonderful that Next Door is reaching out to those who would enjoy a neighborhood connection. I started an elders group in Edmonds, Washington, two years ago. We have about five active members, for coffee and conversation every two weeks. Also for movies, dinners out, excursions and mutual comfort. If any folks near Edmonds would be interested in this endeavor, please let me know.
Sarah,
I So Love Your Ideas Including us older Folks Thx So Much Your Energy id Addictive! THX
It is still so inspiring to know how Nextdoor has grown to play such a pivotal and interactive role in building communities. As a former employee in the Los Angeles region, being able to assist with this vision has proven to be worth the experience. In our Nextdoor Neighborhood, we are nearing 1000 registered Neighbors, with me being the first one and recognized as ‘Founder’ of our local Neighborhood – ‘Rose Hills’.
We have built our community and hosted interactive gatherings which include Neighborhood Watch, National Night Out, Community Emergency Response Teams, as well as local community walks. Although we are in Los Angeles, we are distinctly independent in our services to each other as Neighbors.
Thank You Sarah. I look forward to assisting the future success of Nextdoor and building a stronger relationship, so the Neighbors are the beneficiary of our collective vision.
?To Next Door,, Awesome Work Well Done I Enjoy Reading Comments & Helping Where we can..We r Praying for E a every one & Their Situations,May God be with All.. Prayer’s goes up Blessings come Down.. Thanks!!!!?
Anthony – Wow 1000 neighbors! That’s so great to hear. Thanks for being neighbor 1, we think you should challenge everyone else to beat your invitation count!
Awesome Next Door
I always read the Nextdoor comments. Very interesting. I live in the Heritage Drive neighborhood in Hooksett and I am a 77 year old widow. I have been in my home for 50 years and know very few neighbors. Would love to become more involved in the neighborhood. I am still dabbling in Real estate with Keller Williams. I am in need of friendly people who are alone and need company to talk to and socialize with
I think it is very important that we all try to be good neighbors! As we look out for one another and allow our children to see what they means, we spread goodness! We encourage kindness to be a given and not an after thought! Brighten a neighbors day!
Kudos to NextDoor for connecting neighbors and neighborhoods. Since joining about six months ago, I now feel much more connected to my neighbors. We are in a fairly high crime area in north Austin and the posts shared by my neighbors raise my awareness of potential risks and also bind us together to come against the perpetrators. I’ve also witnessed an outpouring of kindness to neighbors in need and have seen many pets reunited with their owners, in addition to sourcing local handymen recommended by my neighbors. I cannot say enough good about this platform and will promote to those around me.
Thank you for spreading the word, Lynn! We know that more connected communities are safer and stronger.
I noticed there were no wheelchairs or walkers in the pictures? I was wonering why?
Not to be a downer on your overall topic. But, it is NOT a new decade. Just like the new millennium didn’t start in the year 2000, the new decade didn’t start this year. All new year groups start on the “1.” There was no Year 0, so everything starts with a 1.
Whether the decade starts with a 0 or a 1 is artificial. The actual number means nothing. But it gives us an excuse to start over. Remember when “the year two thousand” sounded wierd?
NEXTDOOR: “Committed to Cultivating Kindness ” I’d like that for a bumper sticker.
I love Nextdoor The neighbors are always very helpful.
BUT, They are no words to explain my anger that you also connect to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram. I feel that they are not secure sites and are full of many many crude rude people.
I think this site is very beneficial for all of us. I thank you for your commitment to provide this service. I jus that one suggestion –
For many people the grayed out or light print is very hard to see. It would be lovely if you could refrain from using that color so us with eye disease etc can see the comments and information. Thank you.
It would help if “neighborhood” boundaries were along or within HOA boundaries. Comments often refer to “the HOA”. Readers may be in different HOAs and comments may be irrelevant.
LRPRA is has about 7200 members so it could contain many “neighborhoods”. with many more contiguous neighborhoods.
Would like to see. east Brewster Nextdoor more active. I could use some help
Irene
Use this site daily to report and catch up on neighborhood news and referrals. Its a one of a kind!
Rick Sabo toledo Beverly neighborhood
I am a recent resident of a beautiful 55 and older complex. The rent is in a good range and we pay only rent and electricity. My husband passed away of a fast moving pancreatic cancer just two wks before we were to move in here so I decided to move in anyway. It has been difficult, however, I decided that sitting in my apt all day and feeling sorry for myself was not something I wanted to do. I went out and found people to talk to and also got involved in an exercise class and a group who plays dominoes. I am still lonesome at times of course. I do have family close by but yes they have to work, go to school and take care of their own lives.I have found others who are very lonesome and in need of direction and just some self confidence that they can change things. I help where I can and believe that I have done some good.
Other than ice cream and cake once a month for monthly birthdays and a catered dinner (mostly pasta and salad) which we pay for, once a month, nothing is planned for the residents. We have transportation to the grocery store twice a week. That is all the transportation that is provided, and that is a big problem. We can get other transportation if we schedule it ahead and pay for it. Most are unable to pay what is charged. It feels a bit like we are held in a (granted beautiful) place and have no freedom. We are not in walking distance to anything and are on a rather steep hill that few are able to walk up and down.
How do we get activities and transportation in a place that is probably having a hard time financially.
How can we start encouraging people, who just stay in their apartments all day, to get out and participate if we can get more activities, They have lost all interest and incentive to do anything but feel lonesome.
This is a big dilemma for me. I would like to do something to help. Suggestions???
Marilynn,
You are so kind and conscientious! Perhaps a colaboration with the social director at other senior complexes. Just an idea. Also regional churches may be of some help also. Don’t give up! You have inspired me to try this too. 🙂
Best Regards,
Celeste
Check to see if your city or town has a senior center that offers transportation to events. If you have a clubhouse have a meeting to see what others are interested in. Have potlucks. Noncookers can bring paper goods. Book clubs. Knitting clubs. Advertise for donations of yarn and donate hats and mittens to local schools. Afghans to local hospitals or nursing homes. You could have music nights. Everyone bring a bag of chips or soda. Others could come up with some ideas. If they have no money they could stay at the end of the the event and empty the trash and sweep up.
Many senior centers receive free fabrics, yarn, and other craft items. Putt some notices out about starting a quilting group. Knitting, card making, and playing or whatever your talents are. Play Bingo and use day-old cakes and bakery products as prises. Just get together and exercise. Hope this gives you some ideas. I enjoy doing it Carla from Portland, Oregon
Having read the accolades, let me point out a negative side. Maybe these issues are a local problem, nevertheless, we are hooked up with Nextdoor.
Guidelines and Policies are poorly explained thus prompting the use of the platform for frivolous and chitchat posts. Most annoying are the “I need for free …” posts.
Our distinguished Leader is a do-nothing leader. He skirts issues vital to the preservation of our peaceful Neighborhood.
What is wrong with this Comment?
I don’t have a problem with my neighborhood but I am upset with the consistency of Nextdoor. I have been a member for several years. When I moved from one address to another (about 5 miles) I had to “register” in my new neighborhood which cut me off from contact with everyone in my old neighborhood. The website indicated this was mandatory. Although I can no longer communicate with anyone in my old neighborhood, I see posts from people in my old neighborhood in the feed in my new neighborhood! This is quite irritating as they don’t seem to be held to the same standards that I am. I tried to find a way to enlarge my area but that is limited by arbitrary boundaries. I requested answers and/or technical help and they could not explain or fix it either. How about doing something about that?
I am 77 and enjoy walking the local trails.. it would be so pleasant to have some people walk with me. I would be thrilled to lead walks according to someone’s ability. I love in Groveland. I will post something On the regular nextdoor site.
This site is great with one major exception. I do like people telling me what my home is worth when they do not know what they are talking about and do not have their facts correct. This blog is a mortgage co not political and should stay that way.
In this age of “Social Media”, with many individuals “living” their lives online in full display for all to see, I am a bit old school and choose not to live an “online” life.
Having said that the Nextdoor app is the ONLY form of social media that I am on or utilize, primarily because it’s not about gossip, or “look at me”, or how many “likes” one has. For me, it’s about being connected to the community in which we live, work, and play. The sharing of information, ideas, resources, and even the ability to “lookout” for our friends and neighbors makes this a very worthwhile platform, and the ONLY one that I am on. Please keep up the great work and the connection of neighbors and communities that this app facilitates. God bless!
Thanks for all your support – we are continuing to work as hard as we can to keep building a platform for connectivity and kindness.
My neighborhood is like a 3rd world country. It is a shame how little pride the people take in their homes much less their own pets which are left to roam and wander in the streets. I pray a lot…that everyone would sell and more so that the new neighbor night put a roof on and take down the tarp that has been there for years or take down the Christmas lights that haven’t worked in a decade. And since many of my neighbors cannot speak English it is less a neighborhood than just a place I sleep and pay a mortgage. Or should I say try to sleep since weekends means extremely loud music at least one weekend a month all day and all night. Yes I had dreams of a neighborhood. I just didn’t get one.
” we recognize that there is still much to overcome in our communities: social isolation, the rise of incivility, increased polarization.” A community or neighborhood is more than the next door neighbor. My current “neighborhood” is the vast network of friends on Facebook from California to Massachusetts! Many are Eagle Scout and extended families of the Scout troop where I was Scoutmaster of Troop 32 in Foxboro, Ma, plus great neighbors while living there. We relocated back to Alabama, job. I was born here. This specific location is ugly! Outside this area, okay. We have lived here 29 years. We know one direct neighbor! Only two visits, talks, jabbers or such but none are close friends.
Keep up the great work. This is a wonderful way to connect with neighbors. I have visited FCS (Focused Community Strategies on McDonough Blvd) headquartered in Atlanta. They are changing neighborhoods one neighborhood at a time by communication, action and housing opportunities. The ministry I work for is trying to do the same thing and I love being able to communicate to our neighbors via Nextdoor!
Dear Sarah. My name is Ellen Harris of Fort Worth. I love community engagement. How can I be apartment of the organination?
I am a Lead for Lakeland Nextdoor, Riverside, Texas. I need information on how to delete neighbors that have moved from our subdivision. I love this web site but, as for being a Lead it is very difficult to get information on how to help make the information up to date and correct. Could some one send me the info that I’m looking for or, could you send me info where I can find what I’m looking for. Thank you.
Please help!
Sandy, go to the profile of those who have moved, click the down arrow and select “report.” Report them to Nextdoor. You cannot remove them yourself as a Lead, you have to bring them to Nextdoor’s attention. Have you found the National Leads forum? It’s really helpful for questions like this.
Thank you Sarah Friar for a beautifully written article…
That is great ,but why on my way home on EL Pintado do I see a second PILE of Dog Poop on the road right in front of some poor guys drive way. You know thats not right. What can we do ?
God Bless you, Karen. It is believers like you that instill the good in all of us. I will include you in my daily prayers. keep on doing the Lord’s work, my sister. A brother in Glenview, IL.
if no one said it already, it is not really a new decade, that starts in 2021
Yes. Truth
There is no new decade. It’s all artifice. I like the push to kindness whoever that may be. Here in East Central Illinois there was a political bubble-up;. I’d just as soon leave all that stuff out of this forum, partly because I will not be silent about our security and there’s no such thing as “political correctness”. It doesn’t exist. There’s more that unites us once we wipe away the foam. Peace & love, brothers & sisters/
No, it starts in 2023. So sayeth the trifecta of Eden.
Not necessariy.
Yes. Truth . I’m not sure where all these happy people are. Ours isn’t in the least kind.
Someone once told me something I’ve tried to keep in the front of my mind.
Be the change you want to see in others. I hope this thought helps you and your neighbors
You’re awesome in your activities. You’re fostering communal filial that have been missed in many communities across the United States. Your activities will go a long way in providing solutions to many of social problems resulting from loneliness and inactivity that leads to negative behaviors. I’m indeed open to participation of your noble activities. I’ll honor invitation to participate in any of your activities. We have no other community than this one, at least for now.
What a vital idea, Vicoria. We ned to connect as neighbors did years ago. AND, the gift of Nextdoor Neighbor, we can contact people who are open to that. There is to much isolation, be it an elderly and anyone any age. Knowing people care about us, can run an errand when we are sick or get some people to do somthing fun creates, comfort, lesen anxiety and provide friends to talk with, go out with and have fun with and laugh with.
Nextdoor Neighbor is full of CONNECTION BY MEETING EACH OTHER IN PERSON INITIALLY. YOU HAVE TO BE WILLING TO STEP OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE TO CREATE COONECTION AND CARING IN YOUR LIFE. OTHERWISE, YOU CAN EXPECT TO FEEL LONELY, BECOME DEPRESSED AND FIND IT HARDER TO CONNECT. TAKE THE FIRST STEP TO CONNECT ABD WATCH A WORLD OF CARING PEOPLE STEP FORTH!!
?To Next Door,, Awesome Work Well Done I Enjoy Reading Comments & Helping Where we can..We r Praying for E a every one & Their Situations,May God be with All.. Prayer’s goes up Blessings come Down.. Thanks!!!!?
Thank you very much for your prayers. You may pray for me anytime.
Cici
Thank you, Cici and God bless you.
i live in lake forest area in huntsville ala i love it
but from the info i have heard myself the people running the so called association
do not like Nextdoor. i think because it calls them out.
Thank you Sarah for a great article. I love Nextdoor and use it constantly in my neighborhood….I have met many neighbors in a few mile radius that I probably would have never met without Nextdoor. I am grateful for this organization you created. Keep up the great work.
Thank YOU, Bev. We will keep up the work and are aiming for great every day to make this a much, much, much kinder world.
We ladies in the area formed our own facebook page and have become a very close group of almost 100 ladies now. We did this because of the snarky demeaning comments from the men on Nextdoor. It has worked out quite well for us.We get together once a month sometimes once a week and do things or just gather at one anothers house.
Thank you for this vital information!
I am a life coach and a divorce well coach. I help individuals who are faced with divorce fulfill meaning and wholeness in their life. I hope to do more meet ups because many folks feel isolated.
Fantastic note. Nextdoor is by far and away the best neighborhood site out there, and is what the word community is all about. In todays world, there’s is nothing better and more needed than a sense of community, and Nextdoor enables and operationalizes that concept and reality of neighborliness and community. Thanks Sarah!!! Keep on keeping on!!!
Thanks, Rick! We will keep on keeping on! Thank you for your support – it takes a neighborhood.
You are so right because we all need help sometimes
I am disabled, i live alone, noone comes and sees me, i could always use help because i have physical dissabilities currently, if something like that existed here i would not be a depressed person all the time i think
Hi Chris. Just want to say hang in there. I don’t know if we can share our email or phone number on here but if we can I would share my contact info so that we could visit in that way. I’m sure you have a lot to say and Id like to listen.
Hi CiCi, I am sorry also to hear about your troubles and would like to help you too. Please keep in touch, any chance you live in or near waynesville, NC?
Hi Mary. Thank you kindly. I live in Meridian ID. lucyakacici@gmail.com
I love to talk to people and interact with them. Where are you? Do you have facebook?
Do you happen to live in Salt Lake City, Chris?
I love this idea! There must be more kindness among neighbors to foster a positive living environment. Thank you so much!
I love Nextdoor! There is a tirade currently going on our site. I took part of the positive article and copied and pasted it to the blog. I was trying to diffuse the situation. I believe that one of the parties read it and stopped his rant, but other’s felt the need to tell me to ignore it. That I couldn’t change people and the way they look at things. I wasn’t trying to change anyone my quest was to merely have people to look at things from other’s perspective before putting together a comment on there.
I felt like Nextdoor was a good way to get Neighborhoods to come together and have a “Block Party.” Meet your Neighbors and get to know them. You can know their comings and goings. If they are older they can ask you for help. I realize that time’s have changed, but we change our Neighborhoods we if we change ourselves and are nice to one another. It all begins with speaking to one another with kindness and respect, harsh words are difficult to swallow and forget. Kind words can be remembered for a lifetime.
I love Nextdoor. it gives me a heads-up when strangers are in the neighborhood going door to door. its a great alert system where neighbors are connected and watching out for one another. I have one suggestion, and that is a suggestion box on nextdoor, to help improve on the site.
Getting to know you. Getting to know all about you.
The suggestion box is a great idea!
Best site for local news and information pertaining to my immediate area.
Thank you and keep up the good work.
Back in the 1950’s and 1960’s neighbors reached out to help one another but through the years this changed. Back then if there was a death, neighbors would bring all sorts of prepared food to the relatives id the one who passed away: so much you had a hard time finding a place ti put it, but not so much today. Mothers stayed home with their children and they all looked out for who ever was playing at their house.
Now it is more of a me first F+++ you attitude. It is so wonderful when we help one another.
I sure miss those days! Life was kinder back then.
Another place to go is to a church for gatherings! They are a great place to gather! They offer all sorts of classes, too!
Has Nextdoor considered partnering with Better Angels (https://www.better-angels.org/) regarding this initiative to build a kinder world?
I love Nextdoor and I’m so happy the idea became a reality for you and especially for your members.
One thing I like about Nextdoor is that it isn’t regimented (loaded with rules), and the people are pleasant. May it always stay like that!!
We created a quirky and successful community event: MEET-Loaf Cookoff and Community Potluck. It was sparked by a Nextdoor post from a neighbor asking for someone to make him a meatloaf and banana cream pie.
We’re planning our 3rd Annual MEET-Loaf and send thanks and kudos to Nextdoor for being the vehicle that initiated and allows us to spread the word about the event.
It’s been a success from the get-go and last year we were able to donate about $260 to our local Action Center.
Thanks, Nextdoor! Hope to get your corporate leadership more involved moving forward. Let’s make this an event in communities across the nation.
Paula you could not have said it better.I hope it is read by many and understood. Things really need to change. Be blessed.
Sadly I’ve experienced Nextdoor as a place for people to vent about how much they hate certain things about the neighborhood, local politics, etc. I know it’s not the platform and how people use it but it’s been a complete turnoff. Instead of building community it’s tearing it apart.
We also live in one of the most desirable locations in country which makes the negativity and hate speech even more challenging.
I would like to know, how can I be apart of this. Some of you know that I am hosting a homeless family of 9 in my house. I would like to be part of this. I truly believe that kindness is what this world needs.
Sarah — I think you’re onto something big with Next Door! I’ve enjoyed feeling connected to neighbors in nearby communities and offering assistance and recommendations when asked. I’m amazed at the variety of topics and dialogues that are started and so happy for this new way to communicate and meet folks in my town of Delray Beach, FL.
Unfortunately ND has become a conduit for some bizarre topics allowing individuals a forum to express disturbing views as this social platform attempts to morph itself into a psychiatric hospital of sorts.
Bigger Isn’t Better. Better Is Better.
I find, in Denver, the Nextdoor neighborhood parameters are Too Big.
I’m not sure how they are drawn up, but maybe in the USA’s case, they should Zip Code plus 4 numbers … 80238-3299
Local-Local only works, I believe, when local means LOCAL 5-10 min drive. Others might say a ‘walk-able’ distance. Would not disagree with that.
How many countries does Nextdoor serve
THANK YOU! Living and greatly engaged in caring for my community 32 years this is simply music to my eyes 🙂
We can all disagree civilly and politely.
Common courtesy is the most basic form of love for your fellow man.
You go, Sarah !!! 🙂
Thank you for what you are doing.
There is alot of social isolation everywhere, you just can’t trust people. There is so much dishonesty and stereotyping out there that it’s better to just keep to yourself, to keep from getting in a bad situation. Sad but true.
This was not the way the world was supposed to be.
This is such great news! Come to my neighborhood! There are lots of great groups, but also a ton of people living alone and feeling alone. It is Highland Park, just on the edge of Saint Paul Minnesota. It’s a fun community, lots of great things going on. I will help you get a neighborhood group going!
I need your help in getting a neighborhood grou startd
I’ve relocated, live alone and feel alone. Connections are blessings and they can transform into deep and cring friendships.
Please read my post, Joann nder Joann. I would greatly appreciate getting a neighborhood group going.
I have been with Nextdoor for several years and am currently a lead. I have enjoyed the ability to see what is important to people in several neighborhoods. I think there should be more neighborhoods available. From 2012 until 2018 I was pretty much homebound. In 2012 my wife had problems, my sister had heart problems and my daughter had kidney and heart problems. I took care of all 3 of them at home. My sister died in 2016, my wife died in 2017 and my daughter died in 2018. I did not have a chance to get out into the neighborhood. Nextdoor helped me to know what was going on in the world around me. Thank You all and God Bless You.
It’s a bit inconvenient for those of us who may have more than one residence in different states. We can log in and out frequently but in the marketplace app, things get posted in both areas to the consternation of possible buyers. Can the marketplace be tightened up and is there a way to allow multiple access to different areas without logging in and out? Just asking.
Nextdoor has been a valuable asset in our area for lost or homeless animals. Many have been found and returned home, or a new loving family and home has been found for them. Today we had two postings of animals that were homeless finding they new forever homes. As an animal lover, this warms my heart. Also, the for sale postings have some incredible items sometimes, and help sellers find buyers. A win-win for both parties! Alto a great way to learn of and keep up with events and activities in your neighborhood. I give Nextdoor two thumbs up!
You have stopped political ads/comments; please also stop sales comments. We are receiving so many houses for sale that it is no longer worth checking what people really need or want. BTW,, I do not have a cell phone, so I can’t give it to you.
This letter is what surveillance sounds like and how a CEO justifies it.
Yes I agree. You should always be kind to your fellow man. You never know what impact your kind words could accomplish. Also, our next door website has helped a lot of people, which I can tell by their comments. Whether it is needing help with something, posting about a lost or found pet, snow closings, friendly words of advice etc ,I think this website was a great idea.
Sarah,
The next time you have a neighborhood meeting, try serving tap water from pitchers. The photo you show of neighbors in Atlanta shows water bottles provided for everyone. One way to immediately impact our personal carbon footprint is to stop buying bottled water.
Hi everybody. Would just like to let all of you that are caregivers know about a wonderful site on Facebook: Miss Norma’s Caregivers Retreat. It came about because of a precious lady, Miss Norma, who had just lost her husband when diagnosed with cancer. Her precious son and daughter in law offered for her to join them on their travels in their motor home. Miss Norma told her doctor, “I’m 90 years old, am not going to have chemo, I’m hitting the road!”, which she did! What a year she had!!! Go to Driving Miss Norma on Facebook to see the wonderful happy pictures and read all about her wonderful year. There is also the book too ‘Driving Miss Norma’. You’ll love it!!! After Miss Norma died (in the R.V.) her beautiful son and daughter in law set up the caregivers site. Everyone on their is so lovely and we all really care about each other. You want to vent, go ahead, need help in some way, ask. Have resources you know about, share.
Love to you all. God bless.
Building a stronger and safer community trust and bond,is what nextdoor has shown me.
Helping our neighbors with advice or just friendship is priceless..
Thank you all,for making all the effort and continuously improving nextdoor app.
I agree with the vast majority of your letter/statement, however, we are NOT beginning a new decade. Since there was no year zero (0) decades begin with the year 1 and end with the 10’s (10, 20, etc.). For some reason this basic concept of time and the calendar has been lost through media hype.
I was hoping by living in an HOA community this would bring all the things you have written about….not true….I have connected with Next door outside my complex…and read about and have participated in healthy and warm conversation and support and have the opportunity today to bring a meal today for some college students at a gathering…thank you for an intentional act of kindness to many communities….maybe one day HOA communities will advertise their intent so one will know before hand which ones to stay away from! Blessings and Hugs to all
Yes Joanne, your so right!
Next door app is a Blessing for many neighbors in our surrounding communities. A network of people with positive attractions of care and kindness, empathy and humility, offering prayers and blessings to bring comfort to us all.
No bullying, trolling, mean and nasty or insensitive comments, attacks, harsh language, or bad attitudes that may tear a person down. If there is any attempt of this kind of behavior, Next door will quickly shut it down!
Thank you Next door for providing an app that helps to build people up, and encourage people in ones neighborhood, that creates great people support and stronger communities.
Next door you are truly a blessing ??
Hi Shawney, new movers are some of the folks who rely on us the most – looking for great for sale and free to make your new place better…Nextdoor for the win!
Kinder gentler,peace flowers…wa, wa ,what? What state are you in? I feel it is confusion.
Nextdoor is like the modern version of when neighbors talked over their fences and it is great. And we need this connection. Like someone has already said, it doesn’t have to be more than just a word of encouragement or an offer to share information or even provide some assistance. I stay connected to the neighborhood where I grew up and the kindness of the people who live there now warms my heart. There are some who use the site to vent or write things that are unkind but there is always someone who chimes in with a gentle reminder that this is a place of kindness. There are many things in this world that are good and done by good people though it can be a little hard to find. But believe me, kindness and goodness are out there. This is one of those places.
Brilliant idea!
Beautifully written New Year letter, thank you. I’d like to leave a comment, and I wish I could be anonymous because I will feel self-conscious if people in my own zone see my name. Odds are, they probably won’t, so… I guess I’ll just do it. I’m an older woman who struggles with some psychological issues as well as loneliness and… a penchant for writing. I like to write, and I like the thought of writing to “real” people, I guess I mean people I do or could-possibly “know”. Last year, I posted a lot on my local ND site, and I was enjoying it so much. Then I started to get some critical comments. I knew my topics were perhaps unconventional (such as, I was writing about a camping trip with a “monastic” sort of twist to it, and people were disagreeing with some of my planning, but I thought it was still rewarding to share all my thoughts and to get a bunch of feedback. What happened though, is that one person in particular, joined by a few others later, began to put me down a little bit. She did it in the name of “concern” but that was a thin disguise for simple dislike, I believe. I was startled–very startled–when I received a NextDoor warning screen about continuing to post. I felt embarrassed and chased off of there. And what was really frustrating is that I never knew specifically WHAT the complaint was. Nobody from behind the scenes ever told me exactly what my “infraction” was. If I was being out of order (which MANY other posters did Not think, actually), then why couldn’t someone in the management have simply communicated with me? I pondered and fretted over every little thing, wondering if it was “religious” talk or “emotional” talk or what? I look at the comments here and I see lots of Amens, God Bless, church and Bible words. In Utah, that kind of language is rather charged and can be loaded in some ways, but it wasn’t the bulk of my writing. If you are going to talk about kindness toward people, then I think there should be fairer or more transparent input.
Thank you Sarah!
Knowing our neighbors promotes love, and drives our fear.
Recently, our Neighborhood:
– sent Christmas gifts to Guatemala village.
– gathered books for needy kids
– bought a new “favorite toy” for a little girl
– gave free furniture to a newlywed couple
– Helped find many lost dogs & cats
– Prayed for each other!
Thank you for giving us a great way to talk!
We are in “South Bay” Los Angeles
Unfortunately, Nextdoor in Bloomfield Twp, Oakland County, Michigan has become a site for acrimony over the last year or so regarding a proposed church of a non-mainstream denomination. There has also been a lot of acrimony about our township leadership over various issues. It doesn’t sound like that was your aim when you started this “neighbor to neighbor” website. I don’t know if this has happened elsewhere. If one disagrees with the vocal naysayers, one gets attacked. Might as well be on Facebook or other social media sites, which I have eschewed. Sort of beyond neighbor sharing with neighbor re tradespeople recommendations, other helpful info.
Hello everyone. I live in a suburban “city” south of Phoenix, Arizona. My work involved teaching Dear Sensitivity via training classes all over the US. Most of our clients are “dedicated” police departments, fire/medical, HR, courts, airports, school districts, airlines, etc. It is so rewarding to receive emails from people days or even years after they took the class about how what they learned helped save a life or improve the lives of people who are Deaf and hard of hearing. I am not on here promoting my business, although feel free to look at our website http://www.DeafSensitivityTraining.com. I am on here to share something I love to do: improve the social lives of those with hearing loss.
Many folks who have a hearing loss withdraw from family and outside social events. Why? Becuase they are left out of it all, mostly without malice or any thought given, but simply because those who can hear do not reach out to include them in events or invite them foe coffee, etc.
So, I launched Deaf Coffee Social evenings! There is no cost or no obligation to purchace anything. Just come, mix, mingle, practive American Sign Language (ASL) and make new friends. Starbucks was selected in Maricopa City and Casa Grande in Arizona, south of Phoenix.
There is no website yet, but I am working on one. Please spread the word as widely as possible as there is no other way to reach thist population. The Deaf community is strong. Let’s all include everyone we can think of who will, inturn, let others know.
MOST Mondays, 5:30-9pm, Starbucks, Smith-Enke Rd (Rt 238) and John Wayne Parkway (Rt 347), Maricopa City (Pinal County,) Arizona.
MOST Wednesdays, 5:30-9pm, Starbucks, 1485 East Florence Blvd (arcoss from Harbor Frieght) at the corned of Peart Rd, Casa Grande, AZ –both are in Pinal County more towards Phoenix than Tucson.
You can call for information at 520 407-6606
Yes, this is SO true! Right before Thanksgiving, my EX threw me out of the house. Anyway, he said I deserved to be homeless! Although that was very, very painfull, I learned so much! I thought I had only one or two friends I could talk to. Well, I belong to a veterans organization and these people cared so much for me! They made sure I had food, let me shower in their homes and a few that could, let me stay in their home. I needed an address for my medication. You see, I am disabled and take meds everyday.
Enough of that, ultimately, our little community within a quiet little area came to the rescue! I can’t even remember all of those that helped!
THANK YOU SO MUCH! Everyone has offered assistance or a chance to chat, relax, and have a little fun.
There’s one person who forced my ability to survive and she knows who she is!
Thank you for letting me share this beautiful experience!
Just had Sean Miller do some plumbing for me.
He did a very good job, fair price and very pleasant .
I would recommend him to anyone that need s plumbing
work done at a fair price.
I would love to interact with my local group here in Sun City, Az but I cannot access the site because I get a message on my emails saying ERROR 494. What can I do?
Really enjoyed the blog — good thoughts and a great outreach!
I would love for our community to come together and have a pot luck dinner. I don’t know how to go about starting one or where to have the dinner as my home cannot fit everyone. Does anyone have any suggestions? I believe it is important to share a meal together and for all to get to know one another and not just talk to the people you already know.
Please, ad me. thank you
Please, add me to your list, thank you
I don’t see any comments from New Rochelle,New York. I would love to hear from someone in Westchester County,NY
This is a wonderful use of internet connectivity that has been extremely informative in my area of Washington DC. Thank you very much for your work!
Most of our posts are from neighbors sharing good and bad experiences to educate and alert their neighbors to opportunities and dangers as well. It is an all out effort to keep,us all in the best of life.
Nextdoor allows us to connect immediately to neighbors for help, advice and friendship. It is a lifeline at times.
We check in every day.
My neighbors are all kind, helpful people. They do so much for me. I would be lost without them. Emmaus is a wonderful place to live. Hope I never have to move away from here…Thanks to all.
Is there someway we can leverage NextDoor for our local promotion of Kindness Week in Windsor, Colorado? (Begins 2nd Sunday in February.) We are planning to leverage it’s normal social media tools. But, I was just wondering if there is something outside the normal usage, especially since Kindness Week fits with your promotion of kindness in our communities.
It’s a beautiful day in this neighborhood,
A beautiful day for a neighbor.
Would you be mine?
Could you be mine?…
It’s a neighborly day in this beauty wood,
A neighborly day for a beauty.
Would you be mine?
Could you be mine?…
I have always wanted to have a neighbor just like you.
I’ve always wanted to live in a neighborhood with you.
So, let’s make the most of this beautiful day.
Since we’re together we might as well say:
Would you be mine?
Could you be mine?
Won’t you be my neighbor?
Won’t you please,
Won’t you please?
Please won’t you be my neighbor?
I live in View Point and I love it I have the best neighbors in the world. Each of us have problems that we share with each other and try to be there for each other We all met when we moved in here and never new each other before but you would think we had been friends all our lives. I am from the south and When I was a young women we used to get together one morning a week to have coffee or tea or hot cocoa and just girl talk and it was alot of fun. IF anyone would like to try that sort of thing give me a heads up and we will start a plan Constance Fielder 928 777099
I live in View Point and I love it I have the best neighbors in the world. Each of us have problems that we share with each other and try to be there for each other We all met when we moved in here and never new each other before but you would think we had been friends all our lives. I am from the south and When I was a young women we used to get together one morning a week to have coffee or tea or hot cocoa and just girl talk and it was alot of fun. IF anyone would like to try that sort of thing give me a heads up and we will start a plan Constance Fielder 928 777099
It is great to have the support and kindness of neighbors, I agree. But what about when the opposite happens? We had someone in our neighborhood accuse us of violating a county code which wasn’t us at all but instead a different residence on a different street whose property is in back of ours. These “concerned neighbors” could have knocked on our door and spoken to us about their concern and would then have realized it wasn’t us doing anything wrong. And even if it were, why not say something as a good neighbor instead of running to the authorities instead? We had county officials show up at our door accusing us of violating county codes. After explaining to them that it wasn’t us, they realized that we had been falsely and wrongly accused by our neighbors, apologized and left. They would not disclose which “kindly neighbor” turned in our address as the violators. Wouldn’t you agree that a “good and kindly neighbor” would have kindly knocked on our door and spoken to us? It now makes us wonder which neighbor or neighbors were so thoughtless and this has left us feeling ostracized from the neighborhood we live in. This is so opposite of what you subscribe to in your letter.
Many senior centers receive free fabrics, yarn, and other craft items. Putt some notices out about starting a quilting group. Knitting, card making, and playing or whatever your talents are. Play Bingo and use day-old cakes and bakery products as prises. Just get together and exercise. Hope this gives you some ideas. I enjoy doing it Carla from Portland, Oregon
Will like to meet someone and have cup of coffee together after my oversea military mission. My email is thomasmark7575@gmail.com.
This site is, ironically, a prescription for the isolation that social media often creates. One may have hundreds of friends on FB, twitter or instagram yet feel painfully alone. We come in at all phases of our lives and yet the lack of connection can be a common denominator. Territorial thinking has exacerbated this no matter ones political philosophy. Lack of civility and distrust has become a default. Let’s hope that sites like this can mend some of the threadbare and tattered norms that we were raised to use.
Good observations
Hi Shelley, you are spot on – in a world that is ever more connected, many of us can feel increasingly isolated. Hence the hugely important action of getting out from behind a screen and into our communities in real life. Form a group, walk a dog, volunteer…so many things we can do locally.
I wish that my ‘neighborhood’ was kinder. I no longer post anything because of the trolls and humor at other people’s expense. I feel better about the people that I live around when I do not read Nextdoor.
While I think the initiative is a great one – look at that table. Styrofoam plates, individual water bottles, plastic cutlery – all TERRIBLE for the environment. When are people going to wake up and actually DO something about this??
Dear all,
I am a new comer to your neck of the woods and this is my first posting. Honestly, I am COMPLETELY confused about WHAT THIS SITE IS ALL ABOUT!! I thought it is another social platform in a smaller scale for people living closer to each other, am I wrong? Please help me to understand what is going on on NEXTDOOR! Is it really a Nextdoor Site? I am Professor of Communication and am trying to learn about my new home’s NEXTDOOR! Regards
Kingsview.
Love the concept you’ve developed. It’s a great way to stay connected to your community.
Grateful to you and your staff for your efforts in overseeing this worthwhile program. Would, however, be happier to see that you don’t use plastic bottled water and plates at your meetings/conferences. We need to consider the environment in all things we do.
Hi Sarah,
Watching Facebook did with Brittanica Analytica where personal infos are hot commodity for vendors who are hired for marketing campaigns, how would I know my personal infos with you are not going “inadvertently” globally, now Nextdoor going global?
awesome article…sooo true, especially in today’s world….for sure….i live in Cranston, RI and would be most interested in a ‘get together in the area…have also just sent this email to all my employees…and could send to my email list….probably couple of thousand…
Phyllis Cannava, Office Direct is my business….
I hope to see more change in the comments in my particular city. I don’t think the kindness is always applied and somewhat dread the closer we get to Nov voting. But I DO find such great uses for Nextdoor and value it for information and to pass on recommendations to others.
I would love it if we will have the ability to receive updates for more than one neighborhood. I know there are others in a similar situation, who would like to be up to date on the neighborhood of a family member who is not active on social media.
I wrote a very long message yesterday and it was deleted after it was all done!
Good Morning
I am the lead in Gardnerville Nevada the Fish Springs area and I was wondering why as lead that we can’t be connected to all the areas in the Carson Valley. It would be very helpful if you are having an event and want to share with everyone. I agree no politics should be in Next Door but we have meeting or event that could effect a lot of people and it would be nice if you could share this with other areas.
It’s awesome you are doing this. In the past year, I’ve seen Next Door platform bring out the best in neighbors and sadly also the absolute worst of human verbal cruelty.
Hopefully, hosting “kindness” events will discourage the trolls trying to instigate ugly fights and verbal attacks on neighbors trying to make neighborhoods more welcoming.
It’s time we all start healing the country, one neighborhood at a time.
Good article. I like how Nextdoor is so more friendlier than FB can be. As a lead when someone forgets they are not on FB a reminder usually helps.
I agree, John. I think there’s something too obtrusive (somehow commercial?) about Facebook. Nextdoor — as you say — is friendlier. Now let’s just hope it stays that way…
Thank you for stating this inspiring message so clearly and persuasively. Yes, this is what the focus should be, building a better community and, therefore, a better world, helping people who are less fortunate than we are, rather than fearing and disparaging them, because, as they say, when we all work together, we all do better. You can see this taking place all over the country. It’s an idea whose time has definitely arrived.
Better world for who? What I see are gentrifiers who use Nextdoor to complain about the people whose communities they are helping destroy.
Hello , Yvonne Rogers here from the Rolando Park neighborhood of San Diego proud to say born and raised .
I’ve been on this amazing site since April of 2003 and when invited was automatically made a Lead and I have been very grateful for all the many wonderful aspects this site offers .
It’s such a great resource for everyone and I thank the good people who help with this site , keep up the good work !
Let. Me know if you guys need help with anything im more they happy to help
I really enjoyed reading this article and seeing everyone’s comments. I joined Nextdoor.com to connect with neighbors around my area. My neighborhood is very quiet and there is not much going on here.
I only see people when i am out walking etc. I would love to see a friendly, neighborhood gathering in my area, such as a block party or potluck that would get people out of their homes. We need to be more
sociable with each other. It’s so nice when you go to the neighborhood coffee shop and you meet other
people for friendship. It would be nice to be able to meet the people who live next door to you!
In 1988 I was living in northern California, and that year we had a big earthquake, so there was a lot of damage. I knew very few of my neighbors and I remember men going around helping to turn off water mains and gas valves.We should get to know our neighbors in case of an emergency. Elderly persons living alone were probably scared to death. I know I was.
I used to live in a “development” here in Port Orange (The Woods) that had a Homeowners Association (HOA). Now I know a lot of places have HOAs and a lot of people don’t care for them because of some of the rules they come up with, but we loved our HOA. Why? Because the organization’s main function through the year was to organize NEIGHBORHOOD PARTIES!!! Things like a “traveling” Thanksgiving dinner, for example, where we went from house to house for a different part of the meal, and an occasional neighborhood Yard Sale, where a number of the homeowners contributed contributed things for the sale. I think those things really contributed to our sense of community and friendship. It has been almost 25 years since I had to leave The Woods and I don’t know if that HOA and those activities are still ongoing, but I hope so.
I love this ideal! Alot of us I feel are women and it would be nice to find ways to connect with other women in our area .
I deeply appreciate this aspect of Nextdoor.com. I would very much like to see this broadly encouraged as the character and culture of the connections on Nextdoor.com. Thank you for what you are doing.
I love Nextdoor! Reaching out to our neighbors is key to developing a safe neighborhood.Get to know your neighbors! People want to live in a good community. That in is self will increase the value of your home. I look forward to make more connections. Please feel free to reach out to me if there is anything I can do in any way. I am a senior designee realtor and a forewoman with ADUCustomHomes.com accessory dewlling units.
Sincerely,
Sandra L. Verdugo
626-826-4199
American Association of Retired Persons, AARP, https://www.aarp.org/ has a good monthly newsletter. Lots of information for care-givers, and Alzheimers. You can access the website for free, newsletter comes with a small yearly membership fee.
I have been a member for many years, and have gotten a lot of useful information on health, social issues, life-style, jobs/employment/careers, books to read, personal stories, legislation concerning social security and seniors, and so much more.
I recently moved to North Hollywood from Long Beach and wasn’t sure if the area had places to walk to as I love walking. As an expected mother, it was important to exercise and I also, hoped to have a nearby park for my family to go to regularly. Once I settled in, I was able to check out the area. To my amazement, I discovered the park on strathern and whitsett! I can’t tell you how thrilled that made me. Knowing that I can walk here with my little girl who is now 9 months, was a dream. My husband and I decided to stay in this area as long as possible and yes, the park was a huge factor! The neighborhood itself is quiet and safe. Our neighbors are friendly and helpful too!
This is a wonderful site to join everyone.
Sometimes it takes small things, a person who, needing little or nothing from anyone else, simply goes about doing good in the world. A catalyst who sews good that others may harvest and enjoy in happiness.
To mind comes “The Man Who Planted Trees,” a tale of loss, hope, simple work, depending on only a caring resolution and generosity of spirit. Over the years, I have grown ever more to love this tale, and see so many insights and levels of meaning to my life, things that years before may have meant little or nothing, but later, like the topic of the story itself, grew far more important than before. A good short film to discuss with folks, maybe in our neighborhoods, too.
I am the President of a nonprofit for an animal shelter and I have an amazing idea that I would love to share with you and Prakash. This could be a great addition to your platform and help animal shelters and community pets at the same time. You can reach me at info@friendsofsvasc.org Thank you so much and I really look forward to hearing from you.
Dear God bless my neighbors and their families and friends as they go throughout the day in the name of Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit Amen
To Ms. Sarah:
We wanted to share a great story with you. About 1 month ago my wife and I accidentally came upon a neighbor needing help with her car. Upon further review we found she was a single mom struggling with a teenage daughter with Crohns. She was living in deplorable conditions with malfunctioning toilet, shower, electrical malfunctions, etc. Then we got a brainstorm to write to our neighbors at Next Door. That was all that was needed. The response was tremendous with over 60 families responding with food, clothing, hygiene products, cleaning products, paper goods, linens, towels, etc., even a little money. It was a great community outpouring and all because of Next Door. Our neighbors ROCK. Looks like Mom will be OK thanks to all the good people in our community. God Bless them and the concept of Next Door to enable people to help people. That is what its all about.
Hi to every one, the contents present at this web site are truly awesome for
people experience, well, keep up the good work fellows.
A couple of years ago I moved to Inverness FL not knowing anyone.
I found the NextDoor site and an idea came to me about starting a once a month Meet & Greet. My first Meet and Greet welcomed about 8 members. Today we average between 20 to 40 neighbors meeting for lunch, chat, networking and good neighborly relations once a month.
I have also added a Christmas Party and Neighborhood Hurricane Buddy System.
I feel it is important to contact each new NextDoor neighbor to welcome and invite them to interact with those who live around them.
We are mostly over 55 years old so having people close by is so very important.
This has been one of my most rewarding undertakings. It takes so little work for the results to benefit so many and enrich our lives with good friends.
I hope to pick up some ideas from your experiences.
Thank you
Michelle Greeson