“I painted a canvas for my aunt’s birthday and lost it today. It was on the roof of my mother’s car and has my initials on it (KAL 01/17). It is a gift and only the second time I’ve ever painted. If anyone finds it I would be super appreciative!”
Almost a week later, a FPF member posts:
“Found Painting on Ground Near Bike Path – Yours? With initials KAL.”
“The painting has been located! THANK YOU Front Porch Forum! I am so glad we have this community!” – Christine, Montpelier FPF
Lose something of value? Your neighbors are ready to help. Just ask!
“Thank you to the many individuals who have given free items to furnish apartments for youth who otherwise would not have housing. From bureaus, DVD players, a love seat, movies, a lamp, a kitchen table, many many Shaw’s stamps for cookware for all of our apartments, etc. Thank you from the Transitional Living Program at the Washington County Youth Service Bureau!!”
—Christina, Montpelier Front Porch Forum
Starting out on your own for the first time or know someone who is? Ask FPF neighbors for help!
“I stand with all of my neighbors, no matter what country they came from or what religion they follow. Who will stand with me?“
“A couple of months ago, a community member in my town posted on our Front Porch Forum an invitation for neighbors to gather in questioning how we can become more organized, informed and better able to rapidly respond to current social issues. From that one post, about 40 people showed up. We squeezed into the old South Newfane School House and began an important conversation. Out of this gathering, we are now defining the contours of what we want to do as a group and how to effectively connect with other grassroots efforts in our state. At the last meeting we invited our local legislators and many showed up. FPF has been instrumental by creating the infrastructure that has allowed such a level of individual activism and organization to occur.”
• Heidi, Newfane Townshend FPF
When it’s time to get organized in your community, start with FPF.
“WOW thanks you for all of the replies!!!! So glad to know there are many helping hands in our community. The bed has moved to it’s new home at the Lareau Farm Inn. Thank you all!”
Lisabeth, Innkeeper, Mad River Valley Front Porch Forum
Moving? Need help? Ask your neighbors on FPF.
“Recently our State Senator posted on FPF about a Public Hearing. I am so thankful to have an easy and bipartisan way to hear about local government issues.
“This posting was a perfect use of Front Porch Forum. No matter your political opinion, it is important to understand what is going on in our local government.
“I encourage all of our elected leaders to use FPF to announce opportunities to effect change! Remember that they are working for us and we deserve democracy. Think global, act local!”
—Chloe, Williston FPF
Ask your legislators to use FPF to keep you tuned in about what’s going on in the State house.
“I have a crack in our kitchen sink drain pipe. So now I can’t use the sink and I’m doing dishes in the bathroom. I have an 8 mo old and the dishes are piling up!!! I haven’t been able to get in touch with any plumbing services and I fear I won’t hear from anyone until Monday at this point. I tried plumbing tape, but it didn’t work. HELP would be so appreciated! Whether a number for another plumber, a suggestion for how to fix, or better yet, someone who can come help since DIY plumbing while watching a squirming baby is really hard!!!”
• Karyn, Mad River Valley Front Porch Forum
“Thank you everyone who responded to my call for plumbing help. I’m all set and have a fix underway.”
• Karyn, Mad River Valley FPF, next day
Need help in a hurry? Vermonters turn to neighbors every day on FPF.
“We read of acts of spontaneous kindness. Those instances leave me thinking how thankful they made the recipient. Well, a beautiful, kind soul with the most wonderful smile turned to me on the checkout line at the grocery store in Williston this afternoon and handed me a bouquet of flowers.
“Me? Who me? ‘Yes.’ I confess to tears bubbling just short of overflow, for so many reasons. I offered my thanks and hurried to my car.
“Those were the most wonderful few minutes of my day, of many days. Please know I hope and pray to be able to come close to mirroring this act of kindness one day.
“Many, many thanks, they are truly the most beautiful flowers I have ever seen!”
• Lisa, Richmond Front Porch Forum
“The United Way of Lamoille County has firewood available for a family in need in Belvidere, Vermont. We unfortunately do not have a truck, and are looking for anyone willing to donate their time and vehicle to deliver some. Please call if you can help. Thank you!”
• Jim, Morrisville Front Porch Forum
“Thank you for the help. We were able to get a cord of firewood out on Saturday morning! Thank you for all the suggestions and new connections for help with delivery in the future. We are truly lucky to have such a generous community!”
• Jim, Morrisville FPF, a few days later
Need volunteers? Ask neighbors on your Front Porch Forum.
“Just wanted to send out a quick PSA and let everyone know that there is apparently a ski/snowboard thief going around to most of the local resorts (Sugarbush, Smugg’s, Bolton, Stowe). My skis and poles were stolen last night from Bolton and the desk employee informed me there have been about 5-10 other reports just in the last 2 days. Please be cautious and lock/watch your things!”
• Jenessa, Richmond Front Porch Forum
Has your gear been stolen this season? Pitch in by telling your neighbors on FPF.
Ghost of Midnight is an online journal about fostering community within neighborhoods, with a special focus on Front Porch Forum (FPF). My wife, Valerie, and I founded FPF in 2006... read more