You don’t have to be someone’s friend to make a difference 

When someone is going through a tough time, it’s easy to assume the people who’ll step in are their closest friends and family. 

In reality, anyone who’s part of their community can be part of their support network. 

At Gather My Crew, we’ve watched thousands of support crews come together. Time and again, we’ve seen that some of the most meaningful support comes from acquaintances we know through our communities. 

• The person you chat to sometimes on the sidelines at Saturday sport. 
• The parent you see at school drop-off, even though you only know the name of one of their kids.
• The colleague you make small talk with while waiting for the kettle to boil. 
• The neighbour you wave to as you put the bins out. 

You might not think of yourself as part of someone’s inner circle, but you’re still part of their community.  

Practical help doesn’t require a lifelong friendship. It doesn’t require you to know exactly what to say, or to become someone’s primary support person. 

Sometimes it simply means doing one small thing. 

• Offering a lift. 
• Picking up a few groceries. 
• Walking the dog. 
• Sending a message to let them know you’re thinking of them. 

Those small acts add up, especially when they’re shared across lots of people. One person doesn’t have to do everything. Everyone can do something. 

If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “We’re not close enough for me to offer,” it might be worth challenging that assumption. 

If you’re part of someone’s community, you’re already in a position to help. 

You don’t need to be someone’s best mate to be part of their crew.Many people assume an older parent who refuses help is simply being stubborn. But the reality is often much more complicated.