“MOTHER OF THE NEIGHBORS” BUILDS A BRIDGE TO HER NEIGHBORS: WFWP POTLUCK IN SUNNYVALE, CA

Marie Bond has been with WFWP since it first launched worldwide in 1992. At that time she was living in Egypt and was often relied upon as a translator and guide for the fledgling organization. Since she came to the United States, she has strived to develop grassroot activities for Women's Federation within her neighborhood. As her children were little, reaching out to her neighbors and opening her house to them and their children was the only way she had to contribute. When she began to reach out, Marie found that their new neighborhood is incredibly diverse, “the whole world lives in our neighborhood. So reaching out to the neighbors is reaching out to all the different cultures, religions and nationalities.” Bringing different nationalities together, now became part of her mission.

Last month, on June 30th, she hosted a backyard potluck for 5 of her neighbors. A Japanese grandmother came with her daughter and grandson, as well as one of her Mexican neighbors and her daughter, and Manijeh, a Persian neighbor who has worked with WFWP in the past. They read the WFWP statement of principal and beliefs and discussed the importance of teaching our youth to apply these principles and values. “It was unusually hot that day but still we set under the mulberry tree in our backyard and shared a nice meal together.” Manijeh shared about her experience with WFWP events and how much she appreciates the work being done to bring different nationalities together to exchange ideals and values. She then expressed her appreciation for all of Marie’s efforts, saying “Marie is the mother of our neighborhood. She always reaches out and brings the neighbors together." These words were greatly encouraging to Marie who said, “that was the best title I ever received: The mother of the neighbors.”

While these get togethers are a great way of introducing WFWP and getting new members to join, it is about more than that, it about serving the community and spreading values. In Marie’s words, “Through reaching out to my neighbors and friends, I try to build a bridge where the right people from our neighborhood can be inspired to come closer and connect deeper to our values.” There are so many ways to foster love and support in our communities. Marie has found her path, we encourage everyone to find a way that works for you!