As we gather around the Thanksgiving table, surrounded by the warmth of family and friends, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the blessings we have and consider how we can extend our gratitude to those who may not be as fortunate. In the spirit of giving thanks, let’s acknowledge the social support safety nets we enjoy and challenge ourselves to extend these networks for ourselves and for those who may not have them.
1. Gratitude for Our Social Support Safety Nets
Close friends and family form the backbone of our social support safety nets. Their presence, understanding, and willingness to lend a helping hand contribute to the richness of our lives. However, it’s essential to recognize that not everyone has access to such a support system. Some people live far away from family, some may be emerging from dysfunctional relationships and starting over, and others may just be reluctant to ask for help from anyone.
2. The Challenge: Extend Your Helping Hand
This Thanksgiving, I challenge each one of us to think of at least one way we can help someone in our community. It could be anything from offering an hour of respite care for a new mother, providing a ride to a medical appointment for an elderly neighbor, or extending an invitation to those who may find themselves alone during the holidays.
3. The Power of HelpGoat: Turning Intentions into Actions
To turn this challenge into action, I propose using HelpGoat, a community help exchange app designed to connect people willing to help with those in need. By posting a HelpOffer, you can offer your assistance, specifying the type of help you’re willing to provide. Whether it’s a helping hand, a friendly visit, or a skill you’d like to share, HelpGoat facilitates connections within your community.
4. Building a Safe Space, Ask for Help: The HelpGoat Challenge
In addition to offering help, consider posting a HelpRequest for something you need assistance with. Maybe you are looking for a dog sitter for Christmas day. Perhaps you would love it if someone wrapped all of your Christmas presents for you. Maybe you need someone with a truck to help you move a big piece of furniture you just bought. By asking for help, you not only address your needs but also contribute to creating a safe space where others feel encouraged to do the same.
5. How to Get Started with HelpGoat
- Download the HelpGoat app from the App Store.
- Post a HelpOffer for something you’re willing to do for others.
- Post a HelpRequest for something you need assistance with.
- Additionally, you can join and create HelpGroups for your various social circles (your neighborhood block, your church, your child’s classroom, your office, etc.) and start strengthening the connections within these groups by creating a safe space to ask for and offer help.
This Thanksgiving, let’s go beyond expressing gratitude and embody the spirit of giving. By participating in the HelpGoat challenge, we can weave a tapestry of support, kindness, and community. Together, let’s build a social support safety net for the world, one help transaction at a time.
Download HelpGoat Today:
Help Each Other, Help the World – One Help Transaction at a Time.
Helpgoat - the points-based community help exchange 