Shaping in the time of COVID-19
The global spread of COVID-19 has fundamentally changed the world in what feels like the blink of an eye — and New York is no exception.
Over the last few weeks our home has become the epicenter of the United States outbreak, with more cases and fatalities reported each day. We’ve been operating under the “New York State on PAUSE” guidelines — no gatherings, no eating out, no open offices.
Things are strange here in NYC.
Streets that a week ago were still riddled with tourists are empty, restaurants sit shuttered. One sure sign of life happens at 7pm everyday — when New Yorkers across the state cheer loudly out their windows for Front Line Workers — delivery people, medical professionals, first responders, door-people and more. These workers are more than just extraordinary heroes in a pandemic — they’re the ones who have always kept our city running, and make up the very fabric that is New York.
But while our streets have gone quieter, our young people have not.
But while our streets have gone quieter, our young people have not.
New York Shapers have organized volunteer efforts to connect health workers to personal protective equipment, launched campaigns to encourage connectedness, and organized virtual thank you notes for frontline workers. Shapers have created or promoted funds for local neighborhoods, to support women of color artists, to send money to families in need. We’re taking care of one another through virtual hub happy hours; some of us have even signed up for online courses together.
With our city “on pause” the New York Global Shapers are renewing our commitment to each other and to New York City & State.
We will be more vocal online and direct you to trusted resources, spur action where we can and to be a constant reminder to be supportive of our neighbors and gentle with ourselves.
Over the next few weeks, we’ll frequent seven themes:
- #StayHome — physical distancing, and how to make the most of being home-bound.
- #StayConnected — social interaction is more important than ever. Find tips for virtual activities to help stay connected with loved ones and our global communities.
- #StayLearning — inside view into what we’re learning — tutorial videos, online courses, and subject matter dialogues
- #StaySupportive — highlighting ways that you can help
- #StayHelpful — amplifying volunteer opportunities
- #StayActive — our favorite workouts and tips for staying physically active
- #StayGiving — spotlighting initiatives and non-profits making a difference
Did this make you think of something?
DM us. We’ll post what you share and tell the world.
Throughout this period, we will make a concerted effort to write more of our perspectives and to share more of yours. Please DM us — the world wants to hear from you and we are here to lift your voice up. We want to highlight what you and others are doing to keep your community safe, to improve lives, and to share joy and comfort around the world.
This pandemic has changed the world, but we get to write the future. The time for leadership is now. It is our imperative to serve those around us and to rise together stronger than we were before.
The world is waiting for you. We are too.
#StayHome and #StayStrongNYC — we love you.
Yours in service,
IG: @globalshapersnyc
Twitter: @globalshapersny
