How to Organize a Shared Work Day

Wish you had more help finishing those weekend warrior projects or perhaps just getting your fall yard cleanup done faster but don't have the funds to hire help? A great solution for those with friends or family nearby is to organize a 'Shared Work Day'. Everyone will benefit in many ways.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Family or Friends
• Tools (own or rent)
• To-do list

1. 
   List those that could help

   Make a list of everyone close enough to participate in doing projects once per month. Call them up and explain what a shared work day is and see if they would like to take part. Shared work days are simply people taking turns helping each other conquer their to-do lists.

2. 
   Decide who gets to benefit first

   Decide what order you will go in as for who will have their projects worked on. It is strongly suggested that these work days be scheduled once per month or even less often than that to keep everyone from feeling overwhelmed. Examples would be Aunt Brenda's deck being built in September & Grandma's fall yard cleanup in October.

3. 
   List your projects in detail

   Ask the host (the lucky duck that gets to have their stuff worked on) to make a list of things that need to be done if there is to be multiple small projects vs one larger project. Keep this list manageable for the time frame you are working with and the persons you have helping.

4. 
   Everyone can pitch in for food and tools

   Plan the potluck for both dinner and tools. Not only can everyone pitch in for the food they wish to eat that day but they can share in bringing tools to accomplish the work day goals. Multiples are often desired but with some tools, such as a table saw, only one is necessary.

5. 
   Assign someone as photographer

   Assign someone to take photos. You will want to commemorate the event. This is a great bonding time. It is also wonderful for children to grow up in an atmosphere where family/friends know & exhibit the true meaning of being there for one another.

Tips & Warnings

• Allow children to participate in age appropriate hands-on activities. It is wonderful for their sense of self esteem.
• Have someone make regular rounds to offer refreshments to those who are working.
• Make sure everyone is safe. Use safety equipment and work in teams.

[sullysee]

on 11/11/2009 What a lovely idea, several people bonding and having a great time as well as making a difference. 5*

[KingHostile]

on 11/11/2009 Great ideas, I have never done it but I may have to give it a go.