“Homelessness is just too overwhelming, I don’t know how to help, or even where to start.”
If you have struggled with this thought, you’ve come to the right place! Our programs provide easy entry points for getting involved, taking one step at a time at your own pace, building comfort, knowledge, and compassion as you go.
Photojournal Storytelling
We tell stories and share photos of people who are experiencing homelessness with the simple purpose of showing the beauty in each person. For those living inside, this serves as a soft entry to the issue of homelessness. It is a small step toward overcoming the barriers of negative stereotypes and fear. For those living outside, it is a first step toward overcoming feelings of being invisible. It creates a connection to community and resources. Please join the 50,000+ people who follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, and help create the community you want to live in.
yOU KNOW ME NOW PODCAST
YKMN podcast features in-depth life stories of those marginalized in our society as well as those reaching out in service. From these stories we hope to spark conversation and connection. We are doing this with the sole purpose of bringing us all closer together so that we can better address the issues that divide us. When we listen to those living different lives or views from our own, we begin a journey of understanding. An understanding of not only those around us, but also ourselves. Available on all podcasting platforms or this YKMN link.
jUST SAY HELLO CAMPAIGN
Something as simple as making eye contact and saying “hello” to someone living outside, or asking how they’re doing that day can make a world of difference not only for that person (who is probably used to being ignored or feeling visible), but also for us and our ability to recognize our shared humanity. That’s why the Just Say Hello message is a core part of our ethos- It’s something very simple that we can all do to put love into action. See where Just Say Hello stickers have traveled!
The Window of Kindness
The Window of Kindness is a physical place of connection between community members and people experiencing homelessness. The healing power of listening and connecting extends to everyone who participates.
During Window of Kindness outreach, our staff and volunteers hand out warm meals, socks, shoes, clothing, snacks, camping gear, and other supplies needed to staying dry and warm. Beyond that, we find what is essential beyond the everyday need, is LOVE and connection. Everything we give is a vehicle for kindness and human interaction. Every connection is a reminder that we all live better when we feel loved.
THE CIRCLE
The Circle are groups of people coming together as a community in support of one person struggling. People saying, we are here for you, we believe in you, and we want you to succeed because we love you.
The Circle is a chosen intentional family. A community promising a life-long commitment of friendship. Friendships that strive to be unconditional and centered on the idea that we are all trying to be better humans. The Circle is grounded in the relentless act of listening and loving.
The block project
This project is currently on hold.
We built sustainable homes, with kitchen, bath and sleeping for people experiencing homelessness. The 125 sqft BLOCK Homes were permitted and placed in homeowners' backyards throughout Seattle. This model gave residents a place to call home and our communities around the city an opportunity to make a real difference in supporting our unhoused neighbors.
There were (17) BLOCK Homes built before the program halted. Currently we are bringing The Circle program to each of the BLOCK Home residents, companions, and hosts. If you wish to see the BLOCK Project continue, and have or have connection to funding, please contact us.