Tags: NeighborGoods, social media, social networking, social sharing, The Modern Connection[ × ]

When’s the last time you borrowed something from a neighbor? Come to think of it, do you actually know your neighbors? It seems as though the days of block parties, cook-outs and swap meets have gone by way of the Cleaver’s. Well, not if NeighborGoods has anything to say about it.

The site, which launched in L.A. two years ago, is combining the retro with the modern by creating a community of online sharing. Need a lawnmower? Borrow it from the couple down the street. Have a sewing machine that sees little use? Let a neighbor use it for a craft project or two. It’s as simple as that. Once you join the site, you can add items you are willing to share with others in your area and see what they have to offer you.

Merging the worlds of social connectivity to local connectivity, NeighborGoods aims to rebuild the sense of affinity we once cherished with our neighbors.

“We want to build stronger neighborhoods through sharing. Our mission is very firmly rooted in helping people connect. We’ve learned that physical goods in neighborhoods build stronger, safer, more tightly knit communities.” – NeighborGoods founder Micki Krimmel, SustainableIndustries.com

In such a cost-conscious economy, this service allows consumers to go one step beyond the savings of Groupon or LivingSocial. In fact, unless someone chooses to rent out their items, NeighborGoods is entirely free.

“Being thrifty doesn’t just mean looking for lower prices. Sharing circles and networks are a way of saving money and building community. Can’t get that at your local discount store.” – Iconoculture

And, if you’re hesitant to join due to safety concerns, NeighborGoods gives users the option of verifying their identity for a small fee. You can completely control privacy levels and only allow certain types of connections to see specific items – jewelry, cars, personal items, etc.

As advocates of social media, we think the idea of carrying your online connections into the “real world” is a great way to strengthen the relationship that’s already been built. The idea of doing so to save money, help meet someone’s needs and reduce your carbon footprint makes it an even sweeter deal.

Do you think a service like NeighborGoods would be of help to you? Would you sign up just to be able to help your neighbors and share your items?

As a social media specialist for The Modern Connection, Jessica provides innovative and strategic solutions that help businesses connect with their customers.