Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Neighborhood Bring and Barter
| Neighborhood Bring and Barter By Agatha Curtis A good way to get to know your neighbors, save some money, and get rid of unwanted stuff at the same time. Sound too good to be true? It’s not. Do you remember the old-fashioned block parties? Neighbors used to come out of their houses, cook good food and have a meal together. They got to know one another better and formed a community. Here’s an idea to bring that back to your neighborhood, but with a new twist. Most folks have a few things (or more than a few) around the house they would like to get rid of. Maybe have a yard sale? Donate to the Goodwill? Before you take that box or two away, try having a Bring and Barter in your neighborhood. Pick an area with enough room for everyone to set out fold-up chairs if needed, boxes of stuff and plenty of space to “mingle.” Set a tentative date and time, but be ready to negotiate this. Then call or visit your neighbors and tell them you’re planning an hour or two of community time. Explain that all they have to do is show up with one or two boxes of unwanted possessions and “shop” from the riches provided by others. No money—barter only. If you’re refreshment oriented (as I am) each person could bring enough donuts, cookies, fresh fruit, or whatever for one or two people (this is a great chance to try out that new cookie recipe.) To make it easy, everyone brings their own mug of coffee or preferred drink. A roll of paper towels for plates and napkins. All you should need is one card table to hold the goodies. More than likely, the kids in your neighborhood will think this whole thing is a great idea and they will definitely want to participate. You can give them a separate area with “kids only” toys and trading, but be sure to enlist an adult or two to supervise and help the negotiations along. Keep it simple. Enjoy the day. Take the time to make new friends without leaving home. Labels: barter, block party, Goodwill, neighborhood |
posted by Krista at 8:38 PM
