Front Porch Forum hosts online newsletters in every town in Vermont. Neighbors, nonprofits, businesses, and government officials can post messages, share news, get advice, make recommendations, announce events, sell items, and much more. It's all about helping neighbors to connect and build community.

Each week, one posting is selected for its humor, storytelling, or community-building, and then shared throughout the state. And, now you can read it here in The Bridge Weekly.

Opal shared an appreciation in the Springfield Forum which was then echoed by several more neighbors. We thought it was well worth a share:

"The Springfield VT Recycling program has the most friendly and amazing staff who always make time to engage with every person that wants to help control keeping their small patch of Earth clean.

"I have experienced a lot of laughter, and some tears, engaging with people that I had never met before or recognized, but still strangers. We all need connection and I am always pleased to see people sharing small talk, taking time to relax, listen, letting their guard down, feeling that they are a member of the pack.

"There is a loneliness in our society that threatens all of us. I know, because I recently lost my husband of 46 years and I appreciate that every time I go to recycling, no matter what day, time, weather...I know there will be someone who will remind me that I am not alone and that gives me strength."

For more stories and useful connection in your own Vermont town, join Front Porch Forum by visiting frontporchforum.com.

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