Unplug to Reconnect: Celebrate Missouri Good Neighbor Week 2025 the Right Way

 

As Missouri Good Neighbor Week approaches (September 28–October 4), we’re inviting you to do something simple, powerful, and maybe even a little uncomfortable: turn off your social media. Even better? Delete the app for the week. 

In an age of scrolling, likes, and endless notifications, we’ve grown comfortable with digital “connection”—but often at the expense of real, in-person relationships.

This year, let’s flip the script. Instead of posting about kindness, go live it. Instead of liking a neighbor’s post, knock on their door. This week is the perfect opportunity to break free from the online bubble and step into the real world of community, conversation, and compassion.

Why unplug?

Social media is a fantastic tool, but it can also become a crutch. We feel like we’re connected to everyone, while actually interacting with no one. 

Studies show that spending too much time online can lead to isolation, anxiety, and decreased empathy. Missouri Good Neighbor Week offers a perfect opportunity to pause the scroll and prioritize face-to-face human connection.

What should you do instead?

It’s simple: serve. Look around your neighborhood. Does someone need help mowing their lawn, picking up groceries, or just having a friendly chat? Maybe a local nonprofit needs volunteers. Maybe there’s a new neighbor who hasn’t been properly welcomed. This is your chance to show up—not virtually, but physically and emotionally.

Not sure where to start? Here are a few ideas:

  • Host a front-yard coffee hour or lemonade stand and invite your neighbors.
  • Write handwritten notes to people who’ve made a difference in your life.
  • Spend an afternoon helping a senior neighbor with chores.
  • Organize a street cleanup or community project.

No hashtags. No selfies. Just kindness.

This isn’t about recognition or viral moments. It’s about real impact. If you must share something online, wait until the week is over—and even then, focus on celebrating the people and communities you’ve connected with, not just the good deed itself.

Let Missouri Good Neighbor Week be a turning point—a reminder that while technology connects us, it’s our actions, presence, and compassion that truly build community.

So go ahead. Power down the phone. Step outside. Start a conversation. Be a neighbor, the old-fashioned way.


Written by David L. Burton

MORE INFORMATION

Take the Engaged Neighbor pledge and become part of a movement! The pledge outlines five categories and 20 principles to guide you toward becoming an engaged neighbor. Sign the pledge at https://nomoregoodneighbors.com. Individuals who take the pledge do get special invitations to future events online and in person. Contact the blog author, David L. Burton via emal at dburton541@yahoo.com.

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