Handlender is a platform that enables members of a trusted community to efficiently and conveniently request help or lend a hand to each other with no strings attached. Requests can range from help with yardwork, carpooling, babysitting, or hairstyling to prayer, organizing, grocery shopping, resume writing and more! The goal is to be there for one another as a community, when you need help the most.
If I submit a request, when will I know who can help?
Within 24 hours for Urgent Requests. When you submit an Urgent Request, we send out a notification to everyone in your community, letting them know you need help right away. Urgent requests should be reserved for times when you're in a real pinch or in cases of emergency. (Of course, not like 9-1-1 emergencies, though. We leave that to the first responders.)
Within 24-48 hours for Standard Requests. When you submit a Standard Request, we’ll notify other members of your community whose skill-set matches your request and inquire about their availability. If they're willing to help, we'll provide you with their phone numbers so that you can contact who you'd like to help, and share more information about the request.
When I join Handlender, does it mean that I am required to help?
No. Joining Handlender simply means that you want your community to know the ways in which you are willing to help out when you can. But, just because you can help, doesn't mean you have to help.
What is the difference between an urgent request and a Standard request?
Urgent Requests should be submitted when it's imperative that you receive help within 24 hours, and when it's not possible to wait a few days for help. Standard Requests can be submitted at anytime, but must be scheduled at least 3 days from the current date to give potential helpers time to respond to your request.
HOW IS MY INFORMATION HANDLED?
Securely. During registration, we collect members' names, email addresses, and phone numbers for the purposes of connecting helpers (Handlenders) with Requesters. We also collect your email address to send you our quarterly Handlender Connection Newsletters, but you can opt out of those at any time. All requests and registration information is stored in a private database.When a member confirms their availability to help with a request, their phone number is provided to the Requester for the purposes of exchanging additional details about that specific request.
When completing my profile, Should I only list skills & services where I'm considered an expert?
No -- add everything you’re able to do! Of course we want you to add the professional stuff, but if you’re pretty good at whatever “it” is, or even capable and willing, then you’re perfect for the job.
If I help someone, or they help me, should either of us expect payment?
No. Our name is Handlender for a reason -- the idea is for our members to occasionallylend a hand, with no strings attached. We do, however, encourage Requesters "pay it forward," and offer to lend a hand to another member in need.
DO THE REQUESTERS KNOW WHETHER I CAN HELP BEFORE I AGREE TO HELP THEM?
No. Names, contact information, or availability is not shared with the Requester until the Helper confirms they're able to lend a hand, even if their skills are a match. So, as a Helper, you never have to feel bad if you’re unable or unavailable to help. Requesters will only be provided with your phone number if you agree to help with their specific request.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I SUBMIT MY OFFER TO LEND A HAND?
Once you agree to help with a request, the Requester must call you to officially accept your offer of help. They should also confirm any logistics or details, and answer any questions during the call. If you do not receive a phone call from the requester within 48 hours of your response, you can disregard the request and remove it from your calendar.
Will i receive requests for help from people outside of my Handlender network
No. You will only receive requests for help from those within your same Handlender Network. We do this so that, even though the Requester is anonymous, you can be confident that requests are from people in the same organization as you. Each Network is given a unique Community Access Code at registration that allows for member entry. To maintain a safe Network, this access code should not be shared with anyone outside of your specific Handlender Network.
What if someone outside of my network gains access to My network
You will always have the opportunity to anonymously vet help before accepting help. Once helpers (Handlenders) agree to help with your request, you are given their name and contact information. If you notice an unfamiliar name, you can anonymously choose to ignore their offer to help, or you can contact them to find out if they are really in your community. If at any time you feel uncomfortable, you can decline their offer to help. In the future, we will also add profile pictures to the platform so you can see the faces of everyone in your Network. If you believe someone has illegally gained access to your Network, please contact your Network Account Holder to confirm their membership.
WHAT IF I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
We’d love to help! Contact us here or send an email to info@handlender.com.