Use Your Passion and Skills
We encourage people to connect to those experiencing homelessness in the same way we connect with others in our lives: through engaging our interests, passions and talents. Getting involved in this personal way makes room for meaningful relationships, which we believe is the recipe for ending homelessness. The task is not to solve complex social systems or to fix someone’s situation. The task is to begin. To JUST SAY HELLO. To connect with someone through a shared interest. By doing this, the most profound change you will see is in yourself. In these moments of connection, you join the solution for ending homelessness.
Delivering supplies for the Window of Kindness
Begin your journey
We are so excited you are here and want to be involved with the Facing Homelessness community! We believe this journey begins with you! It’s an amazing opportunity to be in service to others (article by Rachel Naomi Remen). We look forward to working with you to tailor what that looks like for you!
When you learn to swim you don’t just jump into the deep end, you begin in the shallow water first, getting used to being splashed, learning basic skills. The same holds true for entering into the world of service for those in need.
Our programs have a purposeful stair stepping learning curve to them, allowing you to gradually become more comfortable with your involvement. Please read the following to get a feel for the process!
Social Media photojournalism: Join the 50,000+ people who follow us on Facebook and Instagram where we share stories and photos of people who are experiencing homelessness with the simple purpose of showing the beauty in each person AND creating connections to community and resources. By reading and commenting on these platforms you are beginning the first steps in conversation on homelessness and breaking down the negative stereotype. Please email Rex at rex@facinghomelessness.org to be included in a list of Circle opportunities.
You Know Me Now podcast: Join an increasing community of listeners interested in the life stories of those marginalized in our society as a way to better understand the issues that divide us. Available on all podcasting platforms. Please tell you circle of friends and family!
Just Say Hello campaign: Saying hello to our unsheltered neighbors begins the process within ourselves of reaching out. These personal interactions provide us with first hand knowledge on the complex issue of homelessness. In these moments we no longer see the larger issue of homelessness but rather the person experiencing it. Here are a few ways you can connect with our unsheltered neighbors: Share a smile. | Purchase a gift card for someone in need - It gives a menu item of choice, access to a restroom, and shelter from the weather. | Carry socks in your car / bag for those in need to hand out at traffic lights or on the street. Please email Sean at sean@facinghomelessness.org to be included in a list of JSH opportunities.
Window of Kindness: Volunteers hand out emergency supplies essential to staying dry, warm, and fed, and most importantly, share conversation and connection. Everything we give is a vehicle for kindness and LOVE. We are looking for volunteers for various activities, including providing / organizing meals for our outreach trips, donation pickups / dropoffs, and attending outreach services. We are always looking for clothing, shoes, and camping gear, new or used. Please email Karina at karina@facinghomelessness.org to be included in a list of WoK opportunities.
The Circle: If you believe in authentic relationships, ones showing care and love for someone struggling, and you want to engage in community, then this might be for you! Please email Blair at blair@facinghomelessness.org to be included in a list of Circle opportunities.
