Why NeighborSOS?

The story behind the platform

Hi, I'm Donna

I'm a former airline pilot for Compass Airlines and currently work as a Software Engineer. I live in the Highland Park neighborhood of Saint Paul, and I'm a longtime member of Westminster Presbyterian Church downtown and a Board member of Camp Ajawah.

For now, I'm the entire organization — and I'm proud of that. This is a passion project built by a neighbor, for neighbors.

Where the Idea Came From

I absolutely love the concept of Buy Nothing groups. Recently, a moderator in our local group was organizing giving for a family in need. It was a bit chaotic, and I thought: there has to be a better way to connect people who need help with people who want to give.

But truthfully, this idea first came to me years ago when I lived in Phoenix, Arizona — before COVID. Back then, Border Patrol would literally drop families at church doors with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Churches would scramble, sending out emails trying to coordinate help. I wanted to build something to make that easier, but I didn't have the tech skills yet.

Now I do.

This Isn't My First Time

Back at Compass Airlines (a regional carrier for Delta that went bust during COVID), I used to organize holiday sponsorships for families in need. It was incredible to watch a group of coworkers come together to help. That feeling stuck with me.

One feature I'm especially proud of on NeighborSOS is the ability to partially sponsor a family — or share the needs with friends and family members to make giving more affordable. You don't have to do it alone to make a difference.

How NeighborSOS Actually Works

Think of NeighborSOS as an elegant bulletin board with automated emails. I built a platform that connects charities with donors — that's it.

What I don't do:

  • ✕I never handle money or donations
  • ✕I don't process or store payment information
  • ✕I don't coordinate deliveries or communication between donors and charities

When a donor claims a need or sponsors a family, automated emails go out to both the donor and the charity with instructions and contact information. You, the charity, write your own message during registration. All donations and arrangements happen directly between the donor and the charity.

Just think of me as the spreadsheet.

Why I Launched Now

I wanted to open in time for the holidays — so charities could put families on the sponsor list and receive donations by the end of December. The need is now, and I didn't want to wait another year.

Who Can Vouch for Me

As of today, there's no formal board — but I've reached out to clergy at Westminster Presbyterian Church, who know me well. They can vouch for me as I get this moving along. I'm happy to talk on the phone, video call, or even meet in person if you're local, to answer any questions.

Questions? Want to chat? I'd love to hear from you.

Contact Donna

Highland Park, Saint Paul, MN