Volunteering and Giving

People or some people tend to give during the holidays, but what about on a daily basis? Who decided that the only time for giving is just on a specific time of the year? Society says “sharing is caring,” right? So if we’re not seeing that throughout the year, what does that mean?

Don’t get me wrong, because I do appreciate the coolants and shelter in the summertime and the hot liquids and hypothermia blankets in the winter. But it shouldn’t stop there. We have daily needs like housing, jobs, medical assistance, and mental health crisis counseling. We don’t need to be entrapped or tricked into staying homeless. 

Encouragement to move forward and the help that’s “supposed” to be provided would actually go a long way if people were consistent about giving on a daily basis. I’m not talking about just money, either. People can “give” support for when life gets tough and we feel like giving up. That’s why some people turn to alcohol and drugs, because the world seems to not care. 

People can “give” information on who’s hiring or “give” us training if we have no skills. People can “give” a message to people in power they’re close to and put a good word in for us, the less fortunate. Fifty percent of Americans have a friend they’re cool with that’s either in a position of power or knows someone who is. 

People can “give” a greeting. Hello sir or ma’am ain’t never harmed anyone. A handshake, a hug, a good word of encouragement goes a long way with some of us more than you know. People can “give” a smile or a head not to acknowledge us, the less fortunate. A pat on the back, an “It’ll be alright, I’m here with you,” or “Great job, you’re doing better” would even be fine. 

Anything of that nature people can “give” instead of a scowl or angry “F You” face, ignoring and passing us by when we speak. Don’t “give” us an “I can’t help you today” when you might know somebody that can and will. 

People can “give” through word of mouth and actions every day. So don’t just wait til the holiday season. Do us and God a favor and do what was intended, what we are here for. Help uplift each other for the Lord’s sake, because remember he’s still watching!

Donté Turner is a vendor and artist with Street Sense Media. 

information about New Signature, a Washington DC tech solutions and consulting firm

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