Homelessness is one of the most challenging issues faced by modern society. Many times people are tempted to either take drastic measures (without considering the consequences) or to do nothing (seemingly ignoring the human need) because of the scope of this urban problem. Some of the responses that illustrate these tendencies are as follows:
1. "Just make them move from our urban renewal site. They make people uneasy!"
2. "Just make more shelters for them...but not in MY backyard."
3. "There's nothing I can do, so why even try?"
4. "Someone else will take care of it."
There is another possibility. To paraphrase what John F. Kennedy urged us, "ask what you can do for your [neighbor]." Volunteerism may well be the way we can address the complex issues of homelessness. Everyday people helping others in need can make the scarce resources stretch farther, help more people, get people back on their feet. Where can you go to find out how and where to help? Keep checking back over the next several posts for some ideas from the Volunteer Center of Riverside County.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
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