How to be a better neighbor, according to a pro

• That means a homemade loaf of sourdough and chocolate chip cookies.

Since moving in 11 years ago, she's:

• Taken in at least a half-dozen lost dogs.
• Helped neighbors through health scares.
• Organized a Thursday dinner swap.
• Sold my son a Jeep at a steep discount.

But we're not all Amy. In fact, we're less like Amy every day.

Americans are spending more time at home — and talking to neighbors less. The result: More isolation, fewer real-world connections and greater reliance on communities curated by algorithms.

• 59% of Americans chatted with neighbors a few times each week in 2012 — a number that fell to 40% last year, per a new AEI report.
• 17% don't talk to their neighbors at all.

The big picture: I asked Amy, 50, how we can make our neighborhoods feel more connected.

• She showed me her Pyrex collection first.

"This is totally selfish. I feel good when I help my neighbors."

What Amy's saying: Being a good neighbor means showing genuine interest.

• Share what you can, "even if it's some sugar."
• Look for ways to help — and start conversations.

And be an anchor, even if it's uncomfortable.

• "There's so much in the world that's out of my control, but I can do something about being a good neighbor today — right here on my block."

🏡 If you have a great neighbor, reply to this newsletter and tell me.