It’s everyday people taking care of one another
often in small ways that build into something larger.
Yes, some of what we do looks like direct giving. But the difference is in the approach. Instead of handing out what we think people need, mutual aid says, “Beggars should be choosers.” We listen first, respect people’s choices, and trust that they know how to triage their own lives. This not only addresses urgent needs, it empowers people to sustain themselves going forward.
One of my favorite ways to help is simply offering things I no longer need.
It’s like when your mom hands down her old sofa-except this time it’s Susan from three blocks away, and in the process you discover you’re both competitive yodelers. Suddenly you don’t just have a new couch-you have a new friend. That’s the magic: you don’t need to be perfect or have a lot to offer. Everyone has something. Everyone belongs.
Mutual aid is alive, flexible, and always evolving.
Mutual aid thrives on creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. Every community has its own unique needs, and no two networks will look the same. Some organize childcare or task-sharing banks. Others build ride networks so a neighbor can make it to their appointments. We’ve seen someone offer weekly rides to a community member who couldn’t drive due to medication- what started as a practical solution grew into a beautiful friendship. Mutual aid is alive, flexible, and always evolving.
National Resources
Mutual Aid tool kit
Mutual Aid Legal Toolkit from Sustainable Economies Law Center
Mutual Aid Legal Toolkit from Sustainable Economies Law Center
This toolkit written by AOC and Mariama Kaba includes step by step instructions for how you can build your own mutual aid network.
Mutual Aid Legal Toolkit from Sustainable Economies Law Center
Mutual Aid Legal Toolkit from Sustainable Economies Law Center
Mutual Aid Legal Toolkit from Sustainable Economies Law Center
This legal guide is for grassroots mutual aid networks. We compiled a resource based on your submissions, reflecting the most common inquiries we've received.
How to create a mutual aid network with AFSC
Mutual Aid Legal Toolkit from Sustainable Economies Law Center
How to create a mutual aid network with AFSC
In challenging times, mutual aid is one way that communities can come together to support one another when the government can’t or won’t.