Summer is rapidly approaching and if you are like me, you are probably scrambling to find a job, or really any way to make some extra cash. Just imagine how nice it would be to have an app where you could find jobs around your neighborhood simply by posting an ad. Oh wait! That already exists, and it’s called Nextdoor. Both teens and adults from all over the country have been using this social networking app to get in touch with people from their neighborhoods, whether it be for missing pet alerts or last minute babysitter requests. If you are looking to make big bucks this summer, Nextdoor is the app for you. In Arlington, parents are always looking for babysitters, lawn-mowers and tutors over the summer season, and they are all starting to hop on the Nextdoor bandwagon. As expected, some suburban moms do tend to get carried away with excessive postings, some of which include complaints about rowdy teens going over the speed limit and irresponsible neighbors leaving their dog’s waste on their perfectly kept lawns. However, the pros outweigh the cons, as this app is bringing together neighbors in a beneficial way. Some ways to use the app include:

Odd-jobs and babysitting

The reason most teens have downloaded the app is to get money. A lot of times teens’ unpredictable schedules become an obstacle when it comes to getting a permanent and time consuming job. Odd babysitting or lawn mowing jobs are much more convenient and most of the time much less boring than standard jobs. On Nextdoor, you can post an advertisement explaining the services you would like to provide to your fellow neighbors. Trust me, in no time you will be receiving tons of messages requesting your help. However, posting an ad is not always necessary, as parents often post asking for last-minute babysitters, pet-sitters, tutors, and more.

Complaints

Recently someone in my neighborhood posted a complaint about neighbors leaving their dog’s poop bags in their trash bins. Someone else replied recommending they get the poop DNA tested. Yes, this was a real exchange. Pets seem to be a common theme of annoyances among the Nextdoor postings. Along with unruly teen behavior, of course. Playing your music too loud or going down your street too fast will cause quite the influx of angered posts and warnings from the moms on the block.  

Announcements

If you are just dying to know when the next block party or soccer team fundraiser is, Nextdoor will definitely meet that need. Your inbox will literally be filled with neighborhood festivities advertisements along with alerts and recommendations. It is super helpful to find out what is going on in your neighborhood and community, and this app provides that information. Other types of announcements include yard sales and lemonade stands, which are always a fun time in the summer.

Whether you are looking to make money this summer or just want to get more involved in your neighborhood, Nextdoor offers various opportunities to help you connect with people. And bonus, it’s free!