The Road Trip has only started, and already it has changed people and communities!
Last Friday, I spoke at a rally in support of the homeless at the University of Arkansas. Several homeless folks showed up, and I decided to embrace the situation and conduct a live interview with Judy.
Judy has serious medical issues that affect her eyesight. But as it turns out, an eye doctor was in the audience and has now donated free medical services.
But the good will doesn’t end there.
The event was well-attended by community leaders, including the mayor. After the event, the city government committed to moving forward with a Housing First approach, a huge step in the right direction towards ending homelessness rather than managing it.
Also, a local restaurant owner (World Garden, in case you get hungry!) was also in the audience. Following the event, he has committed to providing the food for 5,000 people in northwest Arkansas every week.
I’m in awe of the good that can happen just when you bring people together to look a topic like homelessness square in the face. It gives me hope; it’s proof that people want to get involved, they just need the opportunity to make a real difference.
A huge thanks to Mike Rusch, Cobblestone Project, University of Arkansas Community and Family Institute, Seven Hills Homeless Center, Samaritan Community Center and NW Arkansas Women’s Shelter who all helped to organize this stopover. Of course, none of this would have happened without the love and support of the individuals and corporate sponsors who are making this all happen!
I can’t believe the road trip has just begun! I’m excited to see what will happen next!
Related links:
Number 44 has a name… KLRC post about Friday night
Homeless advocate stops to document stories
FAYETTEVILLE : Residents take night outdoors for homeless
Homeless advocate stops in area to document stories Horvath on mission to give the homeless a voice
@hardlynormal opposite Nancy Pelosi – gonna laugh for months!
