Many people are spending today shopping for Black Friday deals. If that’s not your jam, I invite you to take a moment to learn about the Buy Nothing Project.
The goal of the Buy Nothing Project is to build community while reducing the environmental impact of all the things we buy. Not only is the life of an existing item extended through gifting and sharing between neighbors, it also builds trust between participants.
Here’s how it works. Start at the Buy Nothing app online or download it to your phone. Enter your neighborhood to connect with your local community and create your profile. Once that’s done you can post items to give away, browse the current listings or make a specific ask for something you need. You can also share gratitude for something you received.
Because the focus this movement is to build community, everything shared is given freely with no strings attached. Items on the site range from clothing and furniture to books, beauty products and craft supplies. There is nothing too big or too small to share. I’ve used the site to give empty egg cartons to a neighbor trying to keep up with her backyard chickens. You can also use the site to borrow or lend items like camping supplies and tools.
If you’re curious to see what’s available in your neighborhood you can search for a registered group. To learn more about the Buy Nothing Project itself, listen to this All Things Considered story or read the book written by the founders, “The Buy Nothing, Get Everything Plan". Before you buy it, why not check it out from your local library?
The Buy Nothing Project is run by a group of 14,000+ volunteers who provide tools and resources for everyone in the community as well as manage online security and keep the servers running. If this sounds like something you’d enjoy, become a community builder.
Other ways to get involved are to join your local Buy Nothing group, support the project by making a direct contribution or becoming a sustaining member to unlock special features in the app. You can also buy swag (yes they know) and amplify their message on social media. Like the Buy Nothing Project Facebook page and follow them on Instagram.
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