Good for now. Good for then.
With COVID being an ever present reality, and as we've entered the coldest months of winter, we know that staying socially engaged has been difficult.
One idea that has been coming up is that the limitations brought by the pandemic is an opportune time for advocates to help their partner develop skills and interests. This investment of time is not only beneficial for social engagement now but could be helpful for increased community engagement beyond the pandemic.
For example, Rob (advocate), who is an established painter and writer, was matched with Richard (partner) over the summer months. During their frequent conversations on the phone, Rob discovered that Richard is a gifted writer and researcher. Throughout these colder months, Rob solicits Richard's opinions on the subjects he writes about and often Richard will research and bring material to the table. In addition, Richard has done some copy editing for articles before they are published online.
"Couldn't be a more apropos connection" Richard says,"Talking with Rob has been a tremendous help to me."
If you are an advocate, ask yourself, what skills or interests could I help my partner develop that might lead to more social connections in the future?
Here are some examples of skills and interests advocates could help develop with their partners:
Cook or bake
Learn computer skills
Make Jewelry (e.g. watch beading or jewelry making tutorials on YouTube together and try it)
Make Art (drawing, painting, scrapbooking, collaging, making cards that can be mailed out to friends)
Write poetry or short stories
Write or learn a song (e.g. if your partner plays an instrument, suggest they learn a popular song that others could sing along to)
Play online games on Jackbox or have a Netflix party
Here are some other strategies that Do For One advocates and partners have been using during the winter months:
An advocate has been sending snail mail to her partner’s group home, and calling once a week.
An advocate coordinated for their partner's favorite food to be delivered to the apartment in time for a virtual dinner together.
One relationship picked out a book to read and then meet on zoom to discuss.
One advocate routinely drops off groceries and care packages to her partner’s home.
Thank you Phoebe Goodman for your essay, “Friendship Lesson's from the Pandemic” which inspired the ideas in this post.