The Power of Community During COVID-19

During what may feel like the most challenging of times, we’re seeing some of the best of humanity: the power of community during COVID-19 is something to behold. While social distancing separates us physically, social media is serving as a bridge, a means of lifting each other up: neighbors are helping neighbors, banding together, eschewing the idea of shutting themselves in to instead reach out (safely/virtually) and give what they can to those who need it.

As we think about the days and weeks ahead, it’s more important than ever to preserve the idea of community. We always have — and always will — celebrate the power of online connection.

The Power of Stories

We’re uplifted by stories like these:

• Educators of all kinds are willingly sharing their lesson plans, resources and ideas for keeping minds engaged while learning virtually.
• Artists, authors and storytellers are openly sharing their gifts and hosting demonstrations and tutorials solely via social media.
• Community organizations are setting up “buddy systems” for neighbors, matching volunteers with elderly neighbors or people with compromised health.
• People are using their Instagram accounts to highlight small businesses and how we can patronize them. Highlights have included everything from artists & makers to fitness instructors to independent book sellers, and so much more.

We’re all in this Together

The Motherhood was founded after leading an online blogger relief effort immediately following Hurricane Katrina. We know there is real power in mobilizing social media communities online during a crisis, because we’ve lived it firsthand. The Motherhood is a play on the word neighborhood directly because of the community and neighboring we witnessed during Katrina.

It’s 15 years later, but the fundamentals remain the same.

Everyone has a story to tell, and yours may be just what someone else needs to hear to rise above the challenges of our current reality.

As Fred Rogers, our beloved hometown figure, famously said, “look for the helpers.” We’re committed to supporting our partners and shining a spotlight on the power of community during COVID-19, so please reach out if we can help you in any way.