10 Small Ways to #ReachOutMA
#1 Wave to a neighbor
National Good Neighbor Day is September 28, but we can be good neighbors every day! Be sure to say hello, whether it’s in passing on your way to the car or during a six-feet-apart block party.
#2 Give your time to local causes
Contact your town’s senior center, food pantry, or faith communities to find out how you can help local residents. Volunteering even for an hour a week is a meaningful way to connect.
#3 Give a compliment to a stranger
With fewer interactions these days, let’s make the most of them! Give a compliment while shopping at the grocery store, filling up at the gas station, or picking up take-out food.
#4 Invite someone to participate
Being included makes people feel good. Whether it’s a six-feet-apart walk, an online book club, or a virtual happy hour, make the extra effort to invite someone new to participate.
#5 Write a letter or a card
In the digital era, handwritten notes signal a lot of thought and care. Choose an old friend, distant relative, or stranger living in a local nursing home, and use your creativity to send them a special note.
#6 Make a surprise phone call
Maybe it’s your mom, your grandparent, or that college roommate you’ve lost touch with… now’s the time to connect with the people you keep meaning to call. Set a goal of one a week!
#7 Ask a question
Don't underestimate the power of an authentic question and the willingness to listen deeply. Try “how are you really?” or ask “what new things have you learned recently?”
#8 Share your passion
It could be starting a “meal swap” in your neighborhood to share your cooking, creating art outdoors for others to enjoy, or lending your favorite book to someone new.
#9 Challenge yourself
Commit to reaching out to one person each day—even if it’s as simple as a text message! Or challenge yourself to send birthday cards to everyone you know with a birthday this month.
#10 Know what is happening locally
Subscribe to the local paper, read a local magazine, and watch the public access television channel. This helps you feel connected to your community and may give you ideas for getting involved!