Community Resources

Strong communities protect each other. Learn how to build networks of mutual support that help neighbors thrive in good times and weather difficult ones.

Community Is Protection

Research consistently shows that connected communities are more resilient. When neighbors know and trust each other, they can respond faster to crises and support each other in ways institutions cannot.

Getting Started

Mutual Aid Networks

Find or start a mutual aid group in your community. How neighbors help neighbors with food, housing, and support.

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Rapid Response

Community rapid response protocols. How to organize when neighbors need immediate support.

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Know Your Neighbors

Building community resilience starts with knowing who lives around you. Resources for neighborhood organizing.

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Support Vulnerable Communities

How to be an ally to immigrants, refugees, and others who may face heightened risks.

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Legal Observers

How to serve as a legal observer at protests and public events. Training, responsibilities, and best practices.

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Principles of Mutual Aid

Solidarity, Not Charity

Mutual aid is about people helping each other as equals, not a hierarchy of givers and receivers.

Meet Real Needs

Ask what people actually need rather than assuming. Listen to the community.

Build Power Together

Mutual aid builds relationships and community power that last beyond any single crisis.

Everyone Has Something to Give

Time, skills, connections, and care are all valuable contributions.

Actions You Can Take Today

Start Small

  • • Introduce yourself to neighbors you don't know
  • • Exchange phone numbers for emergencies
  • • Learn who might need extra help (elderly, disabled, families)
  • • Share a meal or check in regularly

Build Networks

  • • Create a neighborhood group chat or email list
  • • Map community resources and skills
  • • Connect with local mutual aid organizations
  • • Organize a regular neighborhood gathering

Being an Effective Ally

Listen First

Ask what support is actually wanted. Don't assume you know what's needed. Respect the agency and expertise of those you're trying to help.

Show Up Consistently

One-time help is valuable, but sustained relationships matter more. Commit to ongoing support rather than crisis-only involvement.

Use Your Privilege

If you have advantages — citizenship, language, connections, resources — use them to support those who don't. Accompany people to appointments, make phone calls, provide rides.

Protect Privacy

Never share information about someone's immigration status, location, or situation without explicit permission. Safety depends on discretion.

Community Emergency Planning

Know Before a Crisis:

  • • Who in your building/block might need help evacuating?
  • • Where is the nearest emergency shelter?
  • • Who has medical training in your community?
  • • What's the plan if communications go down?
  • • Where will you meet if you can't go home?

Community Resources to Map:

  • • People with generators or solar power
  • • People with trucks or large vehicles
  • • People with medical supplies or training
  • • People who speak multiple languages
  • • People with tools, skills, or extra space

Organizations & Tools