Long before we were connected online, we were part of a neighborhood, the unit of American social life until the arrival of the Internet. One Massachusetts organization—The Neighbor Brigade—still holds dear the old American ideals of a good neighbor and the neighborhood as a place that’s got your back. Sue Parente, in the first of two episodes, joins us to discuss the works of this incredible organization born out of Wayland and the practical do-gooder behind it—Pam Washek.

Music by: “Finally…! 1r53” by Setuniman; “New York Jazz Loop” by FoolBoyMedia; “under the stars loop.mp3” by ShadyDave; “My Love (piano loop)” by ShadyDave; “determined” by ShadyDave; “gems-of-the-sea-loop” by ShadyDave; “Hip-Hop Sample” by Creeper_Ciller78; “Nordic” by mareproduction;