The modern world is full of both personal and global struggles. It seems as though every day I turn on the news and learn of yet another deadly disaster, economic downturn, or instance of marginalized individuals getting pushed down even further by the status quo.
The American children’s television host Mister Rogers had a valuable piece of advice for children who felt overwhelmed by the state of the world. He said, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” This advice is certainly reassuring to both children and adults alike, but as adults, it is our responsibility to become those helpers during difficult days.
“Mutual aid” is a term that has come into vogue recently. Defined as support or aid organized and provided by volunteers within a community, mutual aid is a way by which you can personally make a true difference in the lives of vulnerable people in your community and they can make a difference in yours. Mutual aid surged wildly in the early years of the COVID-19 pandemic as lockdowns, economic instability, and major health risks abounded.
Everyday Acts of Kindness
It is not possible for individuals, or even whole communities, to solve every social, financial, and medical issue, but engaging in mutual aid programs provides an opportunity to make at least one person’s life a little bit easier and brighter. Some find themselves drawn to mutual aid support, and go above and beyond the call of duty. In Atlanta, Georgia, a man named Nicky Crawford has organized an effort to build and operate a mobile laundry bus and mobile shower facility to provide free laundry and bathroom services to Atlanta’s unhoused population. However, smaller actions, such as running errands for the elderly, cooking meals for neighbors, and collecting clothing and toiletries to distribute to those in need are still invaluable contributions.
Helping the Community and Promoting Personal Well-being
The benefits of mutual aid are not just for those receiving it. A UK-based survey found that those who had participated in mutual aid identified more strongly with their community and accordingly had a stronger sense of unity. That feeling of unity was then found to have a further positive impact on mental well-being, which is an invaluable boon during times of difficulty and mental trauma.
As mutual aid is provided by individuals within a community, charity work performed by corporations would not fall under that umbrella. However, mutual aid efforts quickly stall without enough funding and volunteers. Corporations and businesses like yours, with their greater resources, can be a pillar of support for local aid groups.
Just One Person Can Make A Difference
So please, take a look around your community to see what is needed and become a helper. Perhaps a flyer will be posted in your neighborhood cafe seeking volunteers to deliver donated meals to the elderly, and after mentioning it to your coworkers you can arrange to volunteer together. Maybe one of your neighbors is taking a collection to support a family who has lost their home in a fire, so you can ask your manager if you could put a box in the office to collect shelf-stable foods, clothing, or toys to donate. More and more opportunities to help others will appear once you get involved, so why don’t you try to see where you, your colleagues, and your company may be able to have a real, positive impact?
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