“I responded as an EMT two nights ago to a medical problem on Logwood Circle. As I pulled up to the residence, a neighbor, who was out walking by, asked ‘Is everything all right?’ I told him ‘I don’t know, I haven’t evaluated the patient yet.’ He said ‘Can I help?’ I said ‘Sure, can you clean off the stairs so other responders and the ambulance crew can better access the home?’ Awhile later, I came outside to find that he had shoveled the ENTIRE driveway(!) and then went about his walk. Thank you sir for your efforts… it helped us immensely in getting the patient to the ambulance and the hospital. I never got his name; he was just a neighbor helping a neighbor… gotta like it.”
• George, Essex Center Front Porch Forum
Have you seen examples of neighbors stepping up in times of need? Share these stories on your local FPF. This type of news tends to inspire other acts of kindness and builds community.
“Many thanks to the man on the tractor with the voracious snow blower attached who cleaned out the front of our driveway, and those of several neighbors, this morning at 5AM. I, for one, wish that you would take off the mask and identify yourself so that I could assist you in the bills you have from that great machine. I guess we should just feel content to know that someone enjoys blowing this white stuff somewhere less intrusive. THANKS AGAIN!!!!!”
• David, Essex Center Front Porch Forum
This is one of dozens such postings on local FPFs across the state lately, with neighbors thanking neighbors for help clearing snow after last week’s storms. In Vermont, it’s easy to lose touch with neighbors during our long, cold winters. But this act of neighborly kindness is a sweet reminder of the kind of community that many of us are blessed with. Thank your neighbor by posting on your FPF today.
“Great news: Lost Golden Retriever has returned home safe and sound!! Thank you to our wonderful friends and neighbors on Front Porch Forum for all of your help and support!!”
• Dana & Susan, Johnson FPF
“Our sweet Chocolate Lab, Ellie, is home again! Very grateful for social media and for our wonderful neighbors in Jericho.”
• Sarah, Stephen, Calvin & Violet, Jericho FPF
“Sending out a thank you to all in the community who responded to my request for a plumber recommendation. We have a wonderful resource here in Front Porch Forum. Thank you, everyone!”
• Kristen, Monkton FPF
“Can anyone provide a closed truck to help move a load of household stuff — furniture and kitchen utensils — donated for distribution to refugees in Burlington area? Start in Marshfield, and end at VT Refugee warehouse in Colchester. In the next couple of weeks. Almost any weekday will do.”
• Jules, Marshfield Plainfield FPF
“Someone has quickly volunteered their truck, together with a driver! Things happen, and fast, with Front Porch Forum.”
• Jules, Marshfield Plainfield FPF, next day
“Today at about 4:45 pm my car slid off of Wes White Hill. Within 5 minutes two neighbors had pulled over including a really nice guy with a plow truck. The second neighbor who arrived in a silver SUV, moved his car up front to alert oncoming traffic, and both of them were a huge help. I really appreciate living in Huntington because of how awesome this community is. Thanks so much for the help!”
• Dave, Huntington Front Porch Forum
“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.
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