KindredPal - Value-Based Connection Platform

Connect with people in your local community based on shared values, beliefs, and life stages.

Features

• Smart Matching: Algorithm matches users based on values (religion, politics, environment, animals, fitness, learning), life stage, and connection goals
• Swipe Discovery: Tinder-style interface to find matches
• Real-Time Messaging: Chat with matches using Socket.io
• Meetups: Create and join local events with RSVP
• Cross-Platform: Web app and React Native mobile app

Tech Stack

Backend: Node.js, Express, MongoDB Atlas, Socket.io, JWT auth
Frontend: React, React Router, Axios
Mobile: React Native, Expo
Security: Helmet, rate limiting, NoSQL injection protection

Quick Start

Backend

cd backend
npm install

Create .env:

PORT=5000
MONGODB_URI=mongodb+srv://username:password@cluster0.xxxxx.mongodb.net/kindredpal?retryWrites=true&w=majority
JWT_SECRET=your_secure_secret
NODE_ENV=development
CLIENT_URL=http://localhost:3000

npm run dev

Frontend

cd frontend
npm install

Create .env:

REACT_APP_API_URL=http://localhost:5000/api
REACT_APP_SOCKET_URL=http://localhost:5000

npm start

Mobile

cd mobile
npm install
npx expo start

MongoDB Atlas Setup

1. Network Access: Add 0.0.0.0/0 to IP whitelist
2. Database User: Create user with "Read and write" privileges
3. Connection String: Use in MONGODB_URI

VPN Note: Disconnect VPN for local development or configure split tunneling for *.mongodb.net

API Endpoints

Auth: /api/auth/signup, /api/auth/login, /api/auth/me
Users: /api/users/discover, /api/users/like/:userId, /api/users/matches
Messages: /api/messages/:userId, /api/messages/conversations
Meetups: /api/meetups, /api/meetups/:meetupId/rsvp

Deployment

Frontend: https://www.kindredpal.com (Vercel)
Backend: https://kindredpal-production.up.railway.app (Railway)
Database: MongoDB Atlas

Roadmap Ahead

• Password reset functionality
• Email verification
• Admin dashboard