"A small act of kindness can make a big difference."

Fall is a special time of year. It’s cooler temperatures (hallelujah), it’s painting pumpkins, it’s Friday night football games—and one of my favorites: s’mores around a campfire! Everything feels a bit cozier. 

But for most of us, this time of year is also super busy and can be really stressful. We spend so much of our time rushing from one thing to the next. In all the busyness, are we actually missing all the opportunities to connect? 

Maybe you have young parents nearby who are trying to survive life with toddlers, work, school, activities, and bedtime. Maybe you have a newly retired neighbor who has more downtime than they expected. Maybe a new neighbor has moved in and doesn’t know anyone yet. You don’t have to do anything big to make an impact and make someone feel seen. You just need to be intentional!

Here are five fun ways to show up for your neighbor this fall: 

Surprise Your Neighbor With a Yummy Fall Treat 

Bake homemade cookies or bag up a handful of store-bought cookies—it doesn’t matter. Cookies are always a hit. Bake or buy pumpkin muffins or banana bread, or even pick up a bag of candy corn or Reese’s pumpkins. Add a cute note, such as “Fall is better with good neighbors” or “Just dropping off a little fall cheer,” and deliver to your neighbor. This is a simple and cute gesture that won’t break the bank! Create your own gift tags or download printable fall gift tags below.

 

Host a Pumpkin-Painting Party 

Your neighbors with young children are always looking for a fun, inexpensive activity, and your older neighbors will enjoy the conversation. The goal is to create an environment that feels welcoming so you can get to know your neighbors a bit better. Painting pumpkins is a simple and fun way to celebrate the season together. All you need is a few pumpkins, some paint and brushes, and a table in your driveway or backyard.

Invite Your Neighbors to a Football Game 

Friday night football games just feel like fall! The nachos, the band, the team running out of the tunnel! It doesn’t have to be extravagant; just extend an invite and save them a seat next to you on the bleachers. Enjoy the game and the conversation. You might be surprised how much you learn about your neighbor after a few hours next to them in the stands. This could even turn into a new Friday night tradition. 

Have a Fall Game Night 

Dust off your board games, break out the dominoes, and stretch for an epic game of charades! Playing a game gives you something to do and takes the pressure off. The point is to talk, laugh, and get to know each other in a fun and silly way. Nothing builds a real connection like laughing together. Your friendship will begin to grow, and you will make some fun memories together—you’ll see! 

Look for the Person Others May Not See 

Start by just introducing yourself. Everyone wants to feel seen, included, and valued. A simple smile and “How are you today?” can make someone feel important and included. So take advantage of the cooler weather. Go for a walk and stop to talk to a neighbor you don’t see very often. 

Why Small Acts of Kindness Matter 

A small act of kindness can make a big difference. Saying hello, sharing a treat, or inviting someone over may seem small to us, but it could mean a lot to someone else. The gesture doesn’t have to be big to make an impact and be meaningful. Your small act may just be exactly what someone needs that day. So look around your neighborhood and start small. It might feel awkward at first—do it anyway. The best place to start is to show up!

Happy fall, y’all! 

Jana Whittington is a partner at Venture Church. She and her family serve and worship at the Lincoln Road Campus in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.  

Next Steps: Find Community in South Mississippi 

Not ready to host a party at your house? That's okay. Find a community event you can attend or volunteer at, like Venture Church's free, Family-friendly Trunk or Treat in Hattiesburg and Gulfport. Families decorate their cars and hand out candy from the trunk. Come lend a hand or come enjoy the fun. Just being there matters, and it's an easy way to start showing up for your neighbor this fall. 

New to the area or looking for a church community? We'd love to meet you. Plan a visit.