Homelessness?
I joined LinkedIn earlier this year but never got all that involved with it. I of course added the group CrossLeft based on Kety's invite and while there decided to check out other groups that were available within the site LinkedIn.
I went to the "groups" section and typed in homelessness (in search of groups that support 'human' homelessness) and what did I find? Well I can tell you that there are a lot citizens out there that are very, very concerned about dogs and cats and not so much so for men, women and children! Seriously there must have been a ratio of 3 to 1 that is for every 3 'shelters' there was maybe 1 group designated for the homeless. We as a society have turned our backs for far too long on these forgotten men, women and children that many of us probably walk by every day.
I recently read a post on here about how Progressive groups lack organization and the ability well simply put...to get things done. Let me worry about that...
I have already reached out too and communicated with a grassroots organization located in Chicago. They have had much success with helping the homeless on the Upper West Side over the past 3 years and I would like to use their success as a model to develop something here (Philadelphia, Baltimore, DC regions) and possibly in / near your geography as well.
Yes, I know this is a lofty ambition but one rooted in reality and more importantly need. I believe I am in the right place to ask for support and ideas, correct? Please let's discuss this openly and candidly.
If there is something that I do know about and is a testament to my life...I know how to get things done, Progressive or not.
Richard
- Jerseyguy406's blog
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I'd start with avoiding labeling
OK, I'll admit that it is a huge pet peeve of mine that comes from the beloved memory of Rosie, a homeless woman I had the honor of knowing, but I just can't stand the term "the homeless." One night during the evening news during a story about "the homeless" Rosie's intoxicated voice bellowed out from her bed where we had assumed she was passed out. She intoned, "We're not the homeless...." there was a pregnant pause during which we wondered if she had now indeed passed out, but we waited for we trusted that she had wisdom gained on the streets. Finally she said "....we're just people without homes." Ever since that day I have avoided using "the ____" to refer to any group. It's not always easy, but for me they are "homeless people" not "the homeless." When a problem has a face it pulls on us, tugging at our heartstrings. Personally, I can't understand the urge to keep pets or how some animals get the protection of being seen as cute while others can be seen as vermin. I suppose that sheltering animals is much less messy and complicated leading to a quicker, simpler satisfaction. Being present with the suffering of homeless individuals and families is much more taxing but satisfying in a deeper manner.
Sorry for the knee-jerk reaction. I share these things from my heart because I want you to share this passion for service to the least (oops, that might be a label, huh?) God bless your efforts.