About Wello

Wello started with a simple belief:
we already have what we need.

The skills, the tools, the knowledge, the time: it's all here. It just needs a way to flow.

The idea

A different kind of neighborhood network

People are kind, and have no shortage of talents, skills, and willingness to help others. Then why do people's needs go unfulfilled? Why are we simultaneously looking to help others and looking for help ourselves, yet still not connecting? These questions were the starting point of Wello.

Something happens when neighbors actually know each other. When you know the person who lives a few doors down and you can knock and ask for help without it feeling like you're imposing, or say hello when you see each other in town. Wello provides a way to connect, to make friends, and to belong.

A balanced system of credits is a return to something instinctual, reciprocity: The idea that we're all part of the same place, that each of us has something to offer, and that being there for one another builds trust that compounds, one small exchange at a time.

Everyone has something to offer. You don't have to be handy or have a car. Maybe you speak a language someone nearby is trying to learn. Maybe you bake or have a green thumb. Maybe you just have a few hours and a willingness to show up. That's what matters.

Wouldn't it be great to know our neighbors? Let's meet in real life again.

What Wello believes

Wello is about truly connecting.

Not gigs or one-time, anonymous transactions.

Solidarity and reciprocity

We are here for each other. Wello is built on the idea that everyone both receives and gives, and that this cycle is what strengthens our connections, our neighborhoods, and ourselves.

Everyone has gifts

Every one of us is a small piece of the whole. We each bring our own abilities, hobbies, practices, experiences, studies, and passions to the world. Regardless of how much you make or don't, you have a place here.

Serendipitous connections

We don't choose our neighbors, and that's the exciting part of it all. Meeting people, supporting them, receiving a helping hand—all of this can happen right where you are. Who knows whom you'll meet, what you'll discover, how you'll grow?

We build trust in small moments

These moments happen when people get together offline. In one brief moment, a lasting memory can be created. A neighbor becomes a friend. A stranger becomes a collaborator. It takes one hello at a time.

Where we're headed

A full neighborhood network

Right now, Wello is about tasks and collaborations. We are actively building the foundation for greater community interaction. Some ideas we are deliberating include the following:

  • Skill shares. Local events in which someone shares what they know or what they've experienced, whether or not they are a professional in the subject. Everyone can participate and learn something.
  • Tool libraries. A way to borrow tools, camping gear, sewing machines, ant spray, carpet cleaners, and so much more. It's more fun to share what we have.
  • Forums. Neighborhood spaces for people to share resources and news, organize events and groups, ask questions, and get to know what's happening on the block.

Do you have ideas? Reach out and let's talk about the possibilities!

Get in touch

Let's build Wello together.

Wello is just starting, and there are many ways to be part of Wello's future. I'd love to hear from you, especially if you are a:

Neighborhood ambassador

Want to see Wello in your block, neighborhood, or town? Let's talk about how to make it happen.

Designer or illustrator

Wello's visual identity and usability are still being formed. Get in touch if you want to build these together.

Mutual aid organizer

Already running a mutual aid network? Let's connect. Wello is here to support your work.

Community group

Schools, faith communities, tenant associations, cultural organizations, event spaces, and more. Wello can provide a platform for your group to stay connected easily.

Say hello → contact@wello.world

Ready to meet your neighbors?

Wello is live in Oakland, Berkeley, & San Francisco. Join your neighborhood today.

Join your neighborhood
Wello — Built on Reciprocity