How to build community during COVID?

Extreme Community Makeover is different this year, as are most things. Volunteers can only come in groups of 10, there are staggered arrival times and lunch times, and everyone wears masks and stays 6 feet apart. At a time where we are limiting our social interactions, how do you keep up community, especially for an organization with community in the name?

"How you build community in COVID is by first and foremost realizing you are part of a larger community, you are not alone. You have only to reach out and there are lots of people who want to help and you can also be part of that help. It can be done safely and carefully and respectfully and that’s how you build community, by taking the first step of reaching out." - Alice

"Check in with your neighbor." - Ilaitia

"Start with one random act of kindness a day. That’s doable." - Lauren

"Trying to stay connected whether it be through social media or socially distanced. Even waving and smiling at your neighbors in community." - Paulina

"Keep being supportive of people, even in this time." - Max

"Going out of your way to stay safe but still spend time with one another and help your community if you can." - Hannah

"Reaching out to your neighbor and letting them know you’re still there for them, especially in hard times. Community doesn’t always have to be in person." - Brittany

"It takes creativity and a willingness to reach out to others and ask if they need help." - Tina

"Getting outside, teamwork, effort, where you can still physically distance but have a chat, get to know your neighbor. You can have a community initiative where 'hey let’s get everyone outdoors and clean up this side of the street today'." - Brenna

"You get together and you find something you can do together. It's really nice to get outside together." - Kayla

"Through socially distanced close encounters with those in your community." - Bobby

"Getting outside, teamwork, effort, where you can still physically distance but have a chat, get to know your neighbor." - Brenna

"You just try in different ways than you’re used to. I think you have to be creative. You can still hang out, but just get a lawn chair out and sit six feet apart. " - Mary-Kate

"You just socially distance and you get the job done." - Arti

Anja - ECM Communications Team