Northwoods Mutual Aid Circle
What is the Mutual Aid Circle?
The Mutual Aid Circle is Northwoods’ way of living into our covenant of care. It’s a network of people committed to supporting one another so that no one feels alone.
At its heart, it’s simple: sometimes we need help, and sometimes we can offer help. The Mutual Aid Circle makes those connections intentional and reliable.
- That might look like:
- A meal after surgery
- A ride to an appointment
- A phone call to ease loneliness
- A card in the mail at just the right moment
- Spiritual or pastoral support in a hard time
The circle isn’t just about crisis—it’s about everyday acts of care that weave us more closely together. Everyone has something to give, and everyone has moments when they need to receive.
The Mutual Aid Circle is how we practice being a true village, showing up for each other with love, compassion, and presence.
How it Works
- You share a need. Use our simple online form, call or text the monthly contact person, or speak with a volunteer on Sunday (look for the green heart pins).
A coordinator responds. A trained Care Coordinator will reach out within a couple of days to listen, clarify what support would feel most helpful, and connect you with the right person or team. - Support is mobilized. You might be paired with a Soul Supporter (trained lay pastoral caregiver), connected with the Practical Care Team for meals, rides, or errands, or receive other support or referrals as needed.
Love is the spirit of this church, and service is its gift. This is our great covenant; to dwell together in peace, to seek the truth in love, and to help one another.
What guides us
The Mutual Aid Circle is built on three core values:
- Compassion with boundaries – offering care without overstepping.
- Trustworthy relationships – keeping what you share confidential.
- Respect for consent and agency – asking before sharing, and honoring your wishes.
This is how we build a community of love, resilience, and connection. If you have a need—large or small—please reach out. If it matters to you, it matters to us.
Concerned about another congregant? Before you fill out the form or reach out to a Care Coordinator, make sure that you have that person’s permission to share their story with the Mutual Aid Circle. Thank you for the care you show in tending both to people’s needs and their privacy. This shared ministry of care is at the heart of what makes Northwoods a beloved community.