How Commonweal works
A plain explanation, so you know exactly what you're joining before you post anything.
The idea, in one line
Poverty gets a little lighter every time a real need meets a real offer. Commonweal is a board for exactly that — neighbors posting what they need and what they can give, and finding each other directly.
Four steps, start to finish
Post a need or an offer
In two minutes, say what you're looking for — or what you're able to give. A ride, a meal, a spare room, an hour of your time.
Someone from the community responds
Anyone on the board can read what's posted and reach out. Their message and contact details show up right on your post.
You coordinate directly
Commonweal doesn't sit in the middle of that conversation — you work out the details between yourselves, however suits you both.
Mark it resolved
Once it's sorted, mark the post resolved so the board stays current for the next person who needs it.
What Commonweal stands on
Every post carries equal dignity
A request for diapers sits next to an offer of free haircuts. Needing help and having help to give are treated the same.
Nothing changes hands on the platform
No purchases, no fees, no payments processed here — ever. Commonweal is a place to find each other, not a place to pay.
It only works if it stays current
Resolved posts get marked resolved. An honest board is more useful than a full one.
Meet in public where you can, share only the contact details you're comfortable with, and trust your own judgment about anyone you're coordinating with — Commonweal connects people, it doesn't vet them.
Ready to post?
It takes about two minutes, and it might be exactly what someone nearby is looking for.
Go to the board