Fighting for Lives

I'm a head-ducker. I admit it. I hate conflict and controversy. My version of Hell is being tied to a chair and forced to watch The Springer Show for eternity (or, alternately, being around my extended family during, well, any time of the year). Add to that the fact I'm gullible and empathetic and a middle-of-the-road walker. I'm not very good at rallying. I don't "do" picket lines or boycotts. I reserve judgment until I'm forced to choose something (and if I can avoid choosing altogether, I remain irritably ambiguous forever).

BUT... sometimes, you can't ignore a problem. Sometimes, you can't shut out the need for change. And change is definitely needed.

So, how'd I get convinced to take a stand? I got involved in a group that goes and loves on some people downtown once a week. I met people with great need, people with names and stories, and I talked to them myself. I started to care, along with the other people in our group. We learned these people have no special interest group, no lobbyists, no advocates with deep pockets.

Which means I have to advocate for them. I have to join other individuals who are passionate about getting people off the streets and into housing, into jobs, into rehab programs.

It also means YOU have to advocate for them, even if it's just a few minutes of your time (or an hour). Because I know you care. This blog doesn't have a big following, so I probably know at least 90% of the folks that read it. And I know you all are people with big hearts.

Here's the gist of the situation: The Toledo-Lucas County (TLC) Homelessness Board has some issues, and longtime homeless advocate (and my friend) Ken Leslie is calling for change. You can find out all about it at 1matters.org. I encourage you to subscribe (RSS feed or email) to stay updated.

I will be at One Government Center Thursday night (12/20) at 7pm for at least an hour. Those who are there will be gathered to recognize the Fight for Housing/National Homeless Person’s Memorial Day and to get our voices heard on behalf of the Homeless of Toledo.

For Amy, Willard, Dave, Keith, Vince, Joseph, Phyllis, Jeff, and the dozens of other men and women we see every Saturday morning - Thank You.