Take out a sheet of paper. Outside of your immediate family, write down how many people know you by your name and how many people you know by name.

Are you pleased with your list? What can you do to add to your list?

In my work in poverty alleviation, the healthier people were the ones who when asked “Who helps you to live well?” had a long list that included the bus driver, barber, barista and Bible Study leader; it was after the broader community members being listed that the more obvious answers of providers were mentioned. Of course, realizing the number of people who know you by name and ask about your wellness, strengthens a person to develop one’s agency that gives one the confidence to add oneself to the list.

As we begin to get our footing in Hazelwood, our success shall be determined by how many people know us by name and add us to their list, and vice versa. The Hazelwood Café is a community trust point. The coffee shop recently began a promotion called the “Drip Party Club," Hazelwood Cafe’s exclusive membership for coffee lovers! Enjoy unlimited drip coffee, where for a monthly fee one receives skip-the-line access, and monthly member perks.” I was the first member of the club and happily refer to myself as “The Big Drip.” It feels good to be known, called by my name, to say hello to others by their names. This developing partnership involves Hot Metal Bridge Faith Community providing items to their “Pack with a Purpose” donation drive.

The possibilities abound for in Hazelwood --- let’s get known and be known