Do you remember when Hilliary Clinto said it takes a village to raise a child? I’d like to add to that. It takes a village to survive these financially challenging times. I was working with clients of mine and although the coaching I am doing with them is not specifically about finances it came around to that because of their own financial challenges right now. This couple is smart, educated, exceptionally talented but because in part to the downturn in the economy are really struggling with just the basics of survival. And they are not alone. It seems everyone I speak with is in the same boat. Yet we don’t seem to be reaching out and helping our neighbors very much. It’s too much “its all about me” and if I give to you I won’t have enough mentality. We must all pull together!
We are in the process of putting together our 1920′s themed murder mystery event and while doing research on that era I came across something very interesting. A way in which neighbors and friends came together to help a friend in need. It was called a Rent Party.
What is a rent party?
Inspired by Harlem, NY rent parties of the 1920s and 30s. Families invited friends into their apartments for jazz by local musicians, poetry reading, dancing, and a menu of soul food. In a spirited demonstration of community and willingness to help a neighbor in need, a hat was passed so guests could drop in money to help pay the rent!
My clients/friends are having difficulties with paying a huge gas bill. Those of us that live in the north east know that it doesn’t take long to amass a huge gas bill. So I am pondering the idea of a Rent Party for their gas bill. It won’t pay the entire bill but it might help to keep the gas on long enough to work something out with the gas company, which at this point in the process, not willing to assist them.
So I think I am going to present this idea to them and see if they are game. Hopefully pride won’t get in the way.
