provided to The Santiva Chronicle
FISH of SanCap (FISH) has launched a new community-centered effort called the Neighbor Network, created to help local businesses and organizations show their support for neighbors while making information about FISH programs easy to access for anyone who may need it.
Participating businesses help share information about FISH as a general community resource—such as including materials in onboarding packets, posting information in break rooms, or making pamphlets available. There’s no tracking, no reporting, and no expectation that anyone uses services.
“Sometimes people just need to know where to turn,” said Simon Robson, FISH Community Outreach and Resiliency Director. “The Neighbor Network helps make that information visible without putting anyone on the spot. It’s about businesses saying, ‘We care about our people and our community, and help is available if you ever need it.’”
Through the program, FISH provides easy-to-share information about its programs and services, as well as updates on special events, workshops, new services, and volunteer opportunities. FISH also offers guidance on sharing information respectfully, ensures resources are available for voluntary, confidential access, and serves as a point of contact for questions or support.
Participating sites receive a window decal reading ‘Proudly Helping Our Neighbors With FISH OF SANCAP’, recognizing their involvement and identifying that FISH information is available inside. Partners are also listed on the FISH website and may choose to share additional materials—such as flyers or program guides—based on what fits best for their space and staff. Each site designates a point of contact and may offer light, informal feedback to help the program continue to grow.
FISH has already launched the Neighbor Network with a few pilot sites, including Wickies Lighthouse Restaurant and The Magic Bus. These early partners are helping shape the program and showing how easy it is to become part of the Neighbor Network.
Notes Bridget Kolshak of Wickies, “Wickies is thrilled to be a part of the Neighbor Network because we strive to build relationships and value within our team. We feel this program is a great way to help the island’s workforce thrive!”
Participation in the Neighbor Network does not suggest that a business’s employees rely on FISH services. Instead, it indicates a shared commitment to community well-being and to making sure people have access to information—privately and when they need it.
The Neighbor Network complements FISH’s broader role as a trusted community resource and United Way–designated Resiliency Hub, supporting neighbors before, during, and after life’s challenges, including natural disasters.
As part of FISH’s February “Spreading the Love to Neighbors” focus, the Neighbor Network highlights the simple, everyday ways businesses and community members can look out for one another and make sure help is visible and accessible.
Businesses and organizations interested in joining the Neighbor Network are invited to reach out to Simon Robson to learn more, start a conversation, or request materials. Simon can be reached at 239-472-4775 or simon@fishofsancap.org.
To learn more about FISH and the services they provide, contact Maria Espinoza, Executive Director, at 239-472-4775 or visit www.fishofsancap.org.
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