Mutual Aid
Mutual aid is a powerful form of community support based on solidarity. It’s the practice of neighbors voluntarily coming together to share resources and help one another. We operate on the belief that everyone has something to contribute and everyone has needs to be met. Mutual Aid is a network of generosity and caring. It is not about charity; it’s about community. Mutual aid is an act of love.
In the face of rising authoritarianism and fascism, mutual aid becomes an essential act of resistance. These systems seek to divide us, make us dependent on oppressive structures, and isolate us from one another. By building collective power and resilience from the ground up, we create a stronger, more connected community that can meet its own needs and protect its most vulnerable members. This is how we practice community care and build the world we want, right now. This book is an excellent introductory to learn more.
we have each other
Come to a Mutual Aid meeting and learn about what projects are happening in Livingston County. This team meets the first Wednesday of every month in Hartland from 5:30-7pm. Email sagelivco@gmail.com for the address. We hope that you join the journey with us because we are all in this together!
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Charity often involves a one-way transaction where those with resources give to those without, which can maintain a power dynamic of "giver" and "receiver". Charity also typically holds requirements that people must meet to receive help. Mutual Aid is based on solidarity and reciprocity. It recognizes that everyone has both needs and something to contribute. We are all both givers and receivers working together to solve problems and build collective power, rather than relying on top-down solutions.
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Not at all! Mutual aid is for everyone. The goal is to build a resilient community where we all support each other. You can participate by sharing your time, skills, resources, or labor. Maybe you have extra groceries this week, can give a neighbor a ride, or can help coordinate efforts. Every contribution, big or small, strengthens the network and ensures support is there for anyone who might need it in the future, including you.
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To get help: email sagelivco@gmail.com with subject line ‘mutual aid’. We will connect you with the resources you need with no paperwork and no judgment. Our priority is supporting our community.
To contribute: You can start by filling out our volunteer form, joining our Signal chat, or donating. Contributions aren't just monetary—you can offer skills (graphic design, car repair, etc.), time (for deliveries, childcare, etc.), or material goods (like groceries or supplies). Let us know what you can share!