PLEASE MEET KARINA:
Facing Homelessness believes we all need to come closer. Close enough to be able to see each other for who we beautifullyARE and close enough to see who we can beautifullyBE.
The entire staff at Facing Homelessness is beyond THRILLED to tell you that Karina Wallace will be helping us all navigate the journey of coming closer as our new and amazing Community Programs Coordinator!
Karina is a PEOPLE PERSON if I've ever seen one! She brings a tireless commitment to help every individual she meets, no matter their situation or condition. Our office has already been beautifully influenced by her energy of kindness and we can't wait for all of you to meet her!
Karina shared the following when she was asked, "What is your connection to Homelessness?"
"Experiences from my past led me to a humbling journey. When I was 8 years old, not long after being adopted and moving to Seattle from Russia, my mom and I were shopping for groceries at a supermarket. A beautiful woman sitting outside on the ground smiled at me as we were walking out, a smile that made me feel empathy even though I didn’t fully understand her situation. I could barely speak English and I couldn’t assemble words to ask my questions, but I found myself heartbroken by the image of her occupying the ground as her home. Growing up, I wanted to be in a position to help people that were living outside. I found myself not needing answers to the questions, not believing every stereotype, but feeling compelled to make a difference.
About 6 years ago, I went through a series of events which led me to experience homelessness. Through that time, I came to know a community of people that have beautiful stories, stories that I believe should be heard and acknowledged.
I was fortunate to navigate myself out of homelessness through hope and understanding support systems. I realized that being a voice for our community and dedication to this line of work is where I belong. I am connected to this mission, which is to walk alongside our neighbors by hearing their voices, and to enrich our community through shifting the paradigm on homelessness."
Karina we love your overflowing empathy and all the talents and energy you'll be bringing to this work. We feel honored that you are our new Community Programs Coordinator!!
University District neighborhood | Rex
A QUIET THOUGHT - If you're moved by the goodness of this community, please visit http://www.facinghomelessness.org/ and click on the 'donate' button and consider a "monthly recurring" donation of just $5 in support of the work. THANK YOU!
#Kindness #JustSayHello #FacingHomelessness
