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One thing we can count on in today’s society is its transience. You can be there to reduce some of the stress – as well as some of the physical load.

As soon as you see a sale sign in your neighborhood go from “for sale” to “sold,” call the realtor and explain that you’d like to welcome the new owner to your neighborhood by helping with the move. Find out the date and plan accordingly.

What do you need to make this outreach a success? Volunteers! Many moves can be completed within a few hours if there are enough people helping. Find a system that works for your neighborhood: email, word of mouth, sign-up sheets, or another idea. Let volunteers know the needs for each particular move as well as dates and times.

Depending on the number of volunteers, be ready to help unload the moving truck, help entertain small children, and have snacks and drinks available during the work.

One last especially nice touch is to bring dinner to the new neighbor on the night of the move. No one feels like cooking after a move, and most people couldn’t find their pots and pans if you paid them! A simple dinner – even sandwiches – will be appreciated!

Helpful Hint: This idea can work in reverse, too. If a family in the neighborhood is moving away, send them off with well wishes and a lot of help! Offer to help them pack, load the truck, or clean the residence after the move. Remember, food and drinks are appreciated whether you’re coming or going!

Instant Intentions

Offer your new neighbors a “Best of” list compiled by you and your neighbors. On it, reference several choices under categories such as best cleaners, best restaurant, best hairdresser – and don’t forget best churches! As a personal touch, give your new neighbor a handwritten welcome with your name and phone number, and say that you’d love to have them as your guests for church and lunch some Sunday after they get settled.

-          From the book, Field Guide to Neighborhood Outreach by Group Publishing, 2007.