Frequently Asked Questions
Hey!
Can you explain what Mutual Aid is
to me?
Mutual Aid is the voluntary reciprocal exchange of resources and services for a mutual benefit. It is a network of care provided by the community, for the community. Dean Spade once said that it is "the radical act of caring for each other while working to change the world."
Mutual aid is not transactional, or only for disaster or crisis.
It is done in community, instead of by or as one person.
It does not treat people as disposable, or as "welfare cases."
Mutual aid is exactly that: aid being shared mutually.
It is people helping people when the institutions and systems we exist in do not.
It is building relationships based on trust and common interest and treating everyone as worthy of care.
How does
Koinonia Mutual Aid
work?
There are two core facets of Koinonia Mutual Aid - financial support and human support. Through our Open Collective, both members and sustainers give a monthly amount.
Members are asked to give an amount that feels good for them, starting at $1 a week. Sustainers are asked to give monthly amount as well. All contributions go directly to support members in need.
We also offer the coordination of Pods for members. While members benefit from the support of pods, both members and sustainers may opt into serving on other member's pods as well.
Ideally, a pod is formed prior to a crisis arising, but we recognize we can't always be that proactive. If you are someone who is a good relationship connector, spiritual director, counselor, or organizer, you may be a good fit for coordinating, or being in a pod.
Don't worry if you don't know anything about pods. We offer monthly workshops on what pods are and how to form them! Fill out this form to express your interest in learning more about coordinating pods. If you are someone who is in need of a pod, email us at info@koinoniamutualaid.com.
How do I become a part of Koinonia?
It begins with relationship.
If you, or someone you know is interested in becoming part of Koinonia, email info@koinoniamutualaid.org.