Sunday, March 8, 2009
TiffanyMcMahan
Tiffany McMahan
Today, while at the Nashville Rescue Mission, we observed some very interesting things such as storage of items and the number of people that work there and that stay there on an average night. We are working solely with the male shelter. We met Willie, the coordinator for the mission, and he told us some very interesting stories. One of which he stated that some of the people are there because of drug addictions and are on a 7 month program where they work 5 days a week for 6 hours a day. There are quite a few men in the shelter staying per a night. We got to interact with them during lunch. Some of us got to serve while others got to help in the dining hall, by collecting trays and washing tables. We also got to speak to some of them during lunch. We also ate what they ate and I think this helped show us how they live. I think that the shelter is very kind to those staying and provide them with adequate living, but it is a very sad situation for those in this position. I think that it gives those in this position a chance to get back on their feet especially if they have been on drugs and are trying to recover. For us, I think it gave us a feel for how they live and how cities are dealing with the issue of homelessness.
By sorting through the piles of shoes, bedding, and clothing it gave us a feel of what the managers and coordinators go through to keep everything working cohesively. Willie and the other workers seemed to really appreciate our help, and tried to help us and make us feel welcomed as much as they could. Working as a group, we accomplished a lot in just a few hours and I believe that we have learned from this experience and it will be a life changing event for all of us and we will never forget it. Hopefully, throughout the week we will experience more living changing events that will forever be in our hearts.
Today, while at the Nashville Rescue Mission, we observed some very interesting things such as storage of items and the number of people that work there and that stay there on an average night. We are working solely with the male shelter. We met Willie, the coordinator for the mission, and he told us some very interesting stories. One of which he stated that some of the people are there because of drug addictions and are on a 7 month program where they work 5 days a week for 6 hours a day. There are quite a few men in the shelter staying per a night. We got to interact with them during lunch. Some of us got to serve while others got to help in the dining hall, by collecting trays and washing tables. We also got to speak to some of them during lunch. We also ate what they ate and I think this helped show us how they live. I think that the shelter is very kind to those staying and provide them with adequate living, but it is a very sad situation for those in this position. I think that it gives those in this position a chance to get back on their feet especially if they have been on drugs and are trying to recover. For us, I think it gave us a feel for how they live and how cities are dealing with the issue of homelessness.
By sorting through the piles of shoes, bedding, and clothing it gave us a feel of what the managers and coordinators go through to keep everything working cohesively. Willie and the other workers seemed to really appreciate our help, and tried to help us and make us feel welcomed as much as they could. Working as a group, we accomplished a lot in just a few hours and I believe that we have learned from this experience and it will be a life changing event for all of us and we will never forget it. Hopefully, throughout the week we will experience more living changing events that will forever be in our hearts.
NicoleDuvall
3-7-09
Our day started off a little rocky, because we didn’t get much sleep the night before, since we were all so excited about going to the mission. We got a little lost since Nashville is so big and there are a ton of streets. However, I did feel very safe with Alex as our chauffeur.
I was really surprised about how big the Nashville Rescue Mission building was! When we got there, people were really friendly and very welcoming and very pro-West Virginia. I’m so glad that we had people to show us around, otherwise I would have gotten lost, since the building was originally a Sears Department Store.
We talked the most with a gentlemen named Willie, who is some sort of manager at the mission. He was very friendly and helpful and very happy to have us to help straighten up the basement-which was our main project. We sorted through I don’t know how many shoes –finding pairs and loners. We also had to stack all the shoes altogether, I thought we were going to have an avalanche stacking them sky high. I did a little bit of sweeping but that didn’t last long because I had to maneuver around boxes, so I figured we should move stuff around and sort through it before we could actually sweep.
Then we had lunch upstairs which was pretty good- actually better then the caf at CU. I’m not really a fussy eater-I’ll eat almost anything. Then shortly after we ate, we put gloves, a hair bonnet, and apron and went out to the dining area to clean off tables, take trays to the drop off area, and socialize with some of the members of the rescue mission.
They seemed really friendly and happy to have someone to talk to. I think that despite there being so many members, I think they are still lonely and that they need interaction with people from the outside- I think we really brightened their day-the few that we did talk to. I know I didn’t get the chance to really converse with the members or serve the homeless so, hopefully I’ll get to do that later on in the week.
Even though I was getting really tired working downstairs in the basement I was overwhelmed at how much stuff that was donated to the mission. I mean, everything you could think of-sheets, shoes, pillows, toys, furniture. It’s nice to know that there are some people who still care about the well being of others and want to help shed some light in others’ lives. I really hope that I can get the chance to make at least some small difference in someone’s life while I’m here in Nashville. I am also very grateful for the opportunity to even be here since, I was #5 on the waiting list.
I’m also looking forward to tomorrow’s trip at the museum-I think it will be interesting! Plus, it will give us some time to relax and give us an opportunity to see more of the great city of Nashville.
Our day started off a little rocky, because we didn’t get much sleep the night before, since we were all so excited about going to the mission. We got a little lost since Nashville is so big and there are a ton of streets. However, I did feel very safe with Alex as our chauffeur.
I was really surprised about how big the Nashville Rescue Mission building was! When we got there, people were really friendly and very welcoming and very pro-West Virginia. I’m so glad that we had people to show us around, otherwise I would have gotten lost, since the building was originally a Sears Department Store.
We talked the most with a gentlemen named Willie, who is some sort of manager at the mission. He was very friendly and helpful and very happy to have us to help straighten up the basement-which was our main project. We sorted through I don’t know how many shoes –finding pairs and loners. We also had to stack all the shoes altogether, I thought we were going to have an avalanche stacking them sky high. I did a little bit of sweeping but that didn’t last long because I had to maneuver around boxes, so I figured we should move stuff around and sort through it before we could actually sweep.
Then we had lunch upstairs which was pretty good- actually better then the caf at CU. I’m not really a fussy eater-I’ll eat almost anything. Then shortly after we ate, we put gloves, a hair bonnet, and apron and went out to the dining area to clean off tables, take trays to the drop off area, and socialize with some of the members of the rescue mission.
They seemed really friendly and happy to have someone to talk to. I think that despite there being so many members, I think they are still lonely and that they need interaction with people from the outside- I think we really brightened their day-the few that we did talk to. I know I didn’t get the chance to really converse with the members or serve the homeless so, hopefully I’ll get to do that later on in the week.
Even though I was getting really tired working downstairs in the basement I was overwhelmed at how much stuff that was donated to the mission. I mean, everything you could think of-sheets, shoes, pillows, toys, furniture. It’s nice to know that there are some people who still care about the well being of others and want to help shed some light in others’ lives. I really hope that I can get the chance to make at least some small difference in someone’s life while I’m here in Nashville. I am also very grateful for the opportunity to even be here since, I was #5 on the waiting list.
I’m also looking forward to tomorrow’s trip at the museum-I think it will be interesting! Plus, it will give us some time to relax and give us an opportunity to see more of the great city of Nashville.
KaylaGreen
Kayla Green
Today was overall an overwhelming experience for all involved. I felt fear, anger, sadness, exhaustion, fulfillment, and empathy throughout the work I did for the Campus of Human Development. When I first arrived the first emotion I experienced was fear we pulled into an alley filled will people so much that it was hard to maneuver the van we were riding in. The stereotype of some homeless people as violent, and aggressive along with the look of some of the people caused fear in me to a degree that surprisingly faded as soon as I heard the first man talk. Experiences like the ones that we’re aloud to travel through you get to experience the good along with the bad. Some of the good things I got to experience were the helpful and thankful people who not only helped me and another girl carry a heavy sheet of wood into the building, but also thanked us for coming to help them. One of the bad things I saw were unappreciative people who didn’t show the amount of respect I thought that the people running the Campus the respect that they deserved, smoked, and were overall rude. The story that I would like to share for today was when we were reflecting at the shelter and a girl from the group shared with us how thankful she was to be there because she and her brother had went through similar circumstances when she was younger I believe that she showed true character to give back the way that she did and tell her story to the group. I believe that the Campus for Human Development is a safe haven for many men and women who are going through a hard time in their lives and that not only is the program helping them by giving them food and shelter but their also helping them to become self-supporting happy members of society through their classes, recovery programs, and incentives and ideas to promote both. I worked hard today and I tried my best to allow myself to soak up as much information about the Homeless lifestyle in Nashville that I could and will continue to do so hopefully with the same drive that I still have for it right now.
Today was overall an overwhelming experience for all involved. I felt fear, anger, sadness, exhaustion, fulfillment, and empathy throughout the work I did for the Campus of Human Development. When I first arrived the first emotion I experienced was fear we pulled into an alley filled will people so much that it was hard to maneuver the van we were riding in. The stereotype of some homeless people as violent, and aggressive along with the look of some of the people caused fear in me to a degree that surprisingly faded as soon as I heard the first man talk. Experiences like the ones that we’re aloud to travel through you get to experience the good along with the bad. Some of the good things I got to experience were the helpful and thankful people who not only helped me and another girl carry a heavy sheet of wood into the building, but also thanked us for coming to help them. One of the bad things I saw were unappreciative people who didn’t show the amount of respect I thought that the people running the Campus the respect that they deserved, smoked, and were overall rude. The story that I would like to share for today was when we were reflecting at the shelter and a girl from the group shared with us how thankful she was to be there because she and her brother had went through similar circumstances when she was younger I believe that she showed true character to give back the way that she did and tell her story to the group. I believe that the Campus for Human Development is a safe haven for many men and women who are going through a hard time in their lives and that not only is the program helping them by giving them food and shelter but their also helping them to become self-supporting happy members of society through their classes, recovery programs, and incentives and ideas to promote both. I worked hard today and I tried my best to allow myself to soak up as much information about the Homeless lifestyle in Nashville that I could and will continue to do so hopefully with the same drive that I still have for it right now.
VirginiaVerburg
Virginia Verburg
Reflections
Day One 3/7/09
The first day of the Alternative Spring Break Trip was full of ups and downs for me. I believe there was a mutual consensus felt by all the students of our group about being scared of the unknown. As we pulled up to the Campus for Human Development, we saw around 40 men standing outside the building waiting for it to open. That alone was unexpected for me, to see so many people at the shelter so early in the morning. Some of the men tried to talk to us as we unloaded from the vans but at the time we were too scared to move and especially answer back.
I felt bad for feeling this way as the day progressed and I relaxed more, but I realize I along with the other students in our group were only reacting based on instinct. Most of us know that there are reasons why men end up being homeless, and those reasons are frightening. Alcoholism, drug abuse, and violence do not simply disappear over night. There is still a side of me that feels bad for reacting the way that I did but the other side of me was just reacting to a scary situation. A group full of mostly women around multiple male strangers.
As we got a tour of the building we learned a lot about the CFHD and homelessness in general. At the CFHD they have a program called the Odyssey. Clients who have been chronically homeless or have been in a drug or alcohol rehabilitation program in the past. Clients have the opportunity to attend classes for a month while living out in the elements and proving that they can stay sober. This stage is Pre-Odyssey. After the clients go through an interview process they may be accepted into the Odyssey program. The first phase of the program is a 6 month period of time in which clients can move into the CFHD and learn about drug and alcohol abuse and receive counseling for any issues they may have. In the second 6 month stage of the program the clients learn about job skills and what to do in the environment once they move out of the Campus. The final stage of the program focuses on the clients actually obtaining a long term position at a business. Clients have the option of moving out in to a low income apartments away from the Campus at this time. Clients are also subject to random drug testing.
After we learned about the program and toured the Campus our group was split into different tasks. At first I helped in the storage area with cleaning and restoration because the building had caught on fire. The storage area had no electricity and a lot of the food and clothing in the building was damaged. I was sad that people that had so little to begin with had even less now because of this fire. It was also hard to have clients throughout the day come up to us and ask for things like water and food. It made me feel guilty for having things that may seem like luxuries to them.
I think that working in the Rescue Mission will be even harder for me to handle. Not only are there more people there, but there are a lot of young men there that are our age. It really hit home to see someone that could be in college with me living in a shelter.
Overall I feel accomplished by the work my group completed but I am also nervous for the days to come.
Reflections
Day One 3/7/09
The first day of the Alternative Spring Break Trip was full of ups and downs for me. I believe there was a mutual consensus felt by all the students of our group about being scared of the unknown. As we pulled up to the Campus for Human Development, we saw around 40 men standing outside the building waiting for it to open. That alone was unexpected for me, to see so many people at the shelter so early in the morning. Some of the men tried to talk to us as we unloaded from the vans but at the time we were too scared to move and especially answer back.
I felt bad for feeling this way as the day progressed and I relaxed more, but I realize I along with the other students in our group were only reacting based on instinct. Most of us know that there are reasons why men end up being homeless, and those reasons are frightening. Alcoholism, drug abuse, and violence do not simply disappear over night. There is still a side of me that feels bad for reacting the way that I did but the other side of me was just reacting to a scary situation. A group full of mostly women around multiple male strangers.
As we got a tour of the building we learned a lot about the CFHD and homelessness in general. At the CFHD they have a program called the Odyssey. Clients who have been chronically homeless or have been in a drug or alcohol rehabilitation program in the past. Clients have the opportunity to attend classes for a month while living out in the elements and proving that they can stay sober. This stage is Pre-Odyssey. After the clients go through an interview process they may be accepted into the Odyssey program. The first phase of the program is a 6 month period of time in which clients can move into the CFHD and learn about drug and alcohol abuse and receive counseling for any issues they may have. In the second 6 month stage of the program the clients learn about job skills and what to do in the environment once they move out of the Campus. The final stage of the program focuses on the clients actually obtaining a long term position at a business. Clients have the option of moving out in to a low income apartments away from the Campus at this time. Clients are also subject to random drug testing.
After we learned about the program and toured the Campus our group was split into different tasks. At first I helped in the storage area with cleaning and restoration because the building had caught on fire. The storage area had no electricity and a lot of the food and clothing in the building was damaged. I was sad that people that had so little to begin with had even less now because of this fire. It was also hard to have clients throughout the day come up to us and ask for things like water and food. It made me feel guilty for having things that may seem like luxuries to them.
I think that working in the Rescue Mission will be even harder for me to handle. Not only are there more people there, but there are a lot of young men there that are our age. It really hit home to see someone that could be in college with me living in a shelter.
Overall I feel accomplished by the work my group completed but I am also nervous for the days to come.
JenniferBowman
Jennifer Bowman
3-7-09
Nashville Spring Break Day 1
Today went pretty well over all for me. I had absolutely no idea what to expect going into it because I have never worked with the homeless on any type of project. I was surprised when we arrived at the Nashville Rescue Mission because I had no idea that it would be so massive. My first thought about that was that it was great to have a big facility available, but then I realized that it is not good because there is a large homeless population in Nashville and they need a facility that large.
The first task that we started on was down in the basement of the building where they store all of the donations that they have received. Our leader for the day was a man named Willie, who instructed us on what we were to do. He gave us our job assignments as he led us down into the basement. It was very dark at first and I will be the first to admit that I was a little scared until they got all of the lights turned on. They have so much stuff down there that it is nearly impossible to go through everything. The main thing that I helped with was sorting used shoes into matching piles and organizing new shoes still in their boxes into size groups. It was good to see the generosity of people by all of the donated stuff that they had. However, it upset me to see some of the things that were donated. Some people seemed to just give the homeless whatever junk they have that they need to get rid of or cannot use. For example, we found dirty rags, shoes without matches, and a towel rack. These are all things that are not very useful to the homeless.
The next thing that I got to do was work in the kitchen. We found boxes of cookie tins filled with cookies and brownies somewhere in the basement while we were cleaning. Willie instructed some of the girls to take them up and get the food out of the tins and we could hand them out during the meal. This was exciting for me because I was looking forward to interacting with the homeless and also the volunteers in the kitchen. The cookies turned out to be ok when we took them out but some of the brownies that came out had mold on them. This was something that definitely seemed bad to me and we tried to get rid of the bad brownies. However, when we went to serve them during lunch a few brownies were out on the tray so we snuck them to the trash container without people looking because I don’t think that I could ever give someone a brownie with a spot of mold. Besides the brownies, the serving experience turned out to be my favorite part of the day. The kitchen staff and volunteers were some of the friendliest people I have met and they made sure we knew what we were doing and helped us in any way that they possibly could. Things got hectic at times but it was very rewarding to see the men coming through the line because they were so appreciative of everything that we did and so thankful for the food.
The Nashville Rescue Mission was a great experience for me and I am excited about going back later this week. The people are so great and they went out of their way to make us feel welcome and at home. They prepared enough food for us at lunch and dinner and also provided us with drinks throughout the day while we were working. Willie was especially kind and when he saw that we were starting to drag because of the four hours of sleep we received the night before, he took us up to rest in the T.V. lounge. The people were so much more amazing than I would have ever imagined. I think that it takes a special person to be able to do the hard job that these people at the mission do and everything that they did they did with a smile on their face. From what I understand many of the workers are graduates of their rehab program so they have had rough lives and know what it is like. All in all, I think it was a really good day and I am looking forward to going back and hopefully spending some time at the Nashville Rescue Mission’s home for women and children.
3-7-09
Nashville Spring Break Day 1
Today went pretty well over all for me. I had absolutely no idea what to expect going into it because I have never worked with the homeless on any type of project. I was surprised when we arrived at the Nashville Rescue Mission because I had no idea that it would be so massive. My first thought about that was that it was great to have a big facility available, but then I realized that it is not good because there is a large homeless population in Nashville and they need a facility that large.
The first task that we started on was down in the basement of the building where they store all of the donations that they have received. Our leader for the day was a man named Willie, who instructed us on what we were to do. He gave us our job assignments as he led us down into the basement. It was very dark at first and I will be the first to admit that I was a little scared until they got all of the lights turned on. They have so much stuff down there that it is nearly impossible to go through everything. The main thing that I helped with was sorting used shoes into matching piles and organizing new shoes still in their boxes into size groups. It was good to see the generosity of people by all of the donated stuff that they had. However, it upset me to see some of the things that were donated. Some people seemed to just give the homeless whatever junk they have that they need to get rid of or cannot use. For example, we found dirty rags, shoes without matches, and a towel rack. These are all things that are not very useful to the homeless.
The next thing that I got to do was work in the kitchen. We found boxes of cookie tins filled with cookies and brownies somewhere in the basement while we were cleaning. Willie instructed some of the girls to take them up and get the food out of the tins and we could hand them out during the meal. This was exciting for me because I was looking forward to interacting with the homeless and also the volunteers in the kitchen. The cookies turned out to be ok when we took them out but some of the brownies that came out had mold on them. This was something that definitely seemed bad to me and we tried to get rid of the bad brownies. However, when we went to serve them during lunch a few brownies were out on the tray so we snuck them to the trash container without people looking because I don’t think that I could ever give someone a brownie with a spot of mold. Besides the brownies, the serving experience turned out to be my favorite part of the day. The kitchen staff and volunteers were some of the friendliest people I have met and they made sure we knew what we were doing and helped us in any way that they possibly could. Things got hectic at times but it was very rewarding to see the men coming through the line because they were so appreciative of everything that we did and so thankful for the food.
The Nashville Rescue Mission was a great experience for me and I am excited about going back later this week. The people are so great and they went out of their way to make us feel welcome and at home. They prepared enough food for us at lunch and dinner and also provided us with drinks throughout the day while we were working. Willie was especially kind and when he saw that we were starting to drag because of the four hours of sleep we received the night before, he took us up to rest in the T.V. lounge. The people were so much more amazing than I would have ever imagined. I think that it takes a special person to be able to do the hard job that these people at the mission do and everything that they did they did with a smile on their face. From what I understand many of the workers are graduates of their rehab program so they have had rough lives and know what it is like. All in all, I think it was a really good day and I am looking forward to going back and hopefully spending some time at the Nashville Rescue Mission’s home for women and children.
BrianCaulkins
Brian Caulkins
Psychology 250
3-08-09
Reflection for Alternative Spring Break
Day # 1
I’m not going to lie, I didn’t really know what to expect when going on this trip for spring break. I’ve seen movies and clips of what you’re supposed to suspect, so I thought I knew what I was doing. It pretty much hit me when we drove through the narrow alley and pulled up beside the shelter. Inside the 15 passenger van everyone was having a good time and cracking up. When all of us saw the people at the shelter, we were silent, especially me. I was there, right where the action was happening. I was scared when we got out of the van. There were homeless people and just me. It was a huge eye-opener. I realized how much I take for granted and how I judge people too quickly. My first instinct to think of homeless people was very negative. After working with these, I began to find the truth. They were so happy; I really can’t see how a homeless person could be so happy. That’s when I realized my stereotyping personality. The most positive thinking today for me was realizing that I was wrong about homeless people. Homeless people are some for the strongest people out there. The reason why is because all they have is themselves and they have to rely on that day in and day out. They were so friendly to me, as well as respectful. Every time I would pass them by they would always be social in a positive way. Today pretty much changed my outlook on life.
One thing that was positive for me today was the interaction with the participants. Where I live there are not many homeless people. To be truly honest, I believe most homeless people are the nicest people out there. It was very rewarding to interact with the participants in the program and I think they enjoyed it as well.
One thing today that really frustrated me was not being able to do everything we needed to do. There were so many projects that needed to be completed. Unfortunately we were not able to accomplish this because we ran out of time. It frustrates me because not matter how hard I try I will not be to stop the issue of homeless people. It upsets me and makes me sad to see so many human beings without shelter. It is almost a depressing type of work because in reality you realize you can’t put everybody in a home.
I did enjoy today a lot. I’m excited to work these next few days and to help homeless people. Homeless people are human beings too and deserve every legal right that we have. This project has opened my eyes and will continue to do so throughout the remainder of the week.
Psychology 250
3-08-09
Reflection for Alternative Spring Break
Day # 1
I’m not going to lie, I didn’t really know what to expect when going on this trip for spring break. I’ve seen movies and clips of what you’re supposed to suspect, so I thought I knew what I was doing. It pretty much hit me when we drove through the narrow alley and pulled up beside the shelter. Inside the 15 passenger van everyone was having a good time and cracking up. When all of us saw the people at the shelter, we were silent, especially me. I was there, right where the action was happening. I was scared when we got out of the van. There were homeless people and just me. It was a huge eye-opener. I realized how much I take for granted and how I judge people too quickly. My first instinct to think of homeless people was very negative. After working with these, I began to find the truth. They were so happy; I really can’t see how a homeless person could be so happy. That’s when I realized my stereotyping personality. The most positive thinking today for me was realizing that I was wrong about homeless people. Homeless people are some for the strongest people out there. The reason why is because all they have is themselves and they have to rely on that day in and day out. They were so friendly to me, as well as respectful. Every time I would pass them by they would always be social in a positive way. Today pretty much changed my outlook on life.
One thing that was positive for me today was the interaction with the participants. Where I live there are not many homeless people. To be truly honest, I believe most homeless people are the nicest people out there. It was very rewarding to interact with the participants in the program and I think they enjoyed it as well.
One thing today that really frustrated me was not being able to do everything we needed to do. There were so many projects that needed to be completed. Unfortunately we were not able to accomplish this because we ran out of time. It frustrates me because not matter how hard I try I will not be to stop the issue of homeless people. It upsets me and makes me sad to see so many human beings without shelter. It is almost a depressing type of work because in reality you realize you can’t put everybody in a home.
I did enjoy today a lot. I’m excited to work these next few days and to help homeless people. Homeless people are human beings too and deserve every legal right that we have. This project has opened my eyes and will continue to do so throughout the remainder of the week.
TreskaDunbar
Treska Dunbar
SOWK 350
March 7, 2009
March 7th Journal Entry
Today was a rewarding and challenging day. When we got to the Campus for Human Development, there were homeless individuals all over the parking lot. It really hit you like a ton of bricks to see the magnitude of homelessness here in Nashville. Today I learned that chronic homelessness is defined as being homeless for one year or three times in the last four years. It was rewarding to see that we could really help the agency better provide for their clients by providing them with more "cubbies" (a place for the homeless to store their belongings). This is really important to the participants, because it keeps their belongings safe as well as keeps them from having to carry their belongings all day.
When we were cleaning out the building which had been damaged by fire, I felt very sad. We were throwing away all kinds of clothing that was labeled as belonging to participants. It is hard to realize that these people have so little and we were throwing what few belongings they did have into the dumpster, because someone decided to torch the building.
It was also very interesting and frustrating to me that the Campus for Human Development didn’t have any specific programs directed towards women; however, they had a few programs directed towards homeless men. I wondered why they had such a strong interest in homeless males but not females. During our reflection time with the agency employee, she spoke about how homeless women have a more difficult time dealing with the stigmas associated with being homeless as well as the self-image struggles. It frustrated me more to know that she sees it as though they have a real need, but there is no program to help them. We saw only a few homeless women, so maybe they don’t feel like enough people use their facility to warrant them creating a program.
When we went to the Nashville Rescue Mission to eat I got mixed feelings from their clients. I was uncomfortable when we walked in, because workers from the mission would escort us in and the homeless men would look at us with these sad eyes wondering why we were so special to get to go in and eat while they are standing in line. However, the few clients that I conversed with were very thankful that we were there to volunteer our time, they asked us to come back multiple times. So, my first impression of these individuals was incorrect.
Overall, today was eye opening for me. Driving through downtown Nashville was stressful and nerve racking. Serving at the Campus allowed me the opportunity to gain an awareness of homelessness and see a little of what life is like for them. It was interesting to note how each of them are an individual with a story to tell.
SOWK 350
March 7, 2009
March 7th Journal Entry
Today was a rewarding and challenging day. When we got to the Campus for Human Development, there were homeless individuals all over the parking lot. It really hit you like a ton of bricks to see the magnitude of homelessness here in Nashville. Today I learned that chronic homelessness is defined as being homeless for one year or three times in the last four years. It was rewarding to see that we could really help the agency better provide for their clients by providing them with more "cubbies" (a place for the homeless to store their belongings). This is really important to the participants, because it keeps their belongings safe as well as keeps them from having to carry their belongings all day.
When we were cleaning out the building which had been damaged by fire, I felt very sad. We were throwing away all kinds of clothing that was labeled as belonging to participants. It is hard to realize that these people have so little and we were throwing what few belongings they did have into the dumpster, because someone decided to torch the building.
It was also very interesting and frustrating to me that the Campus for Human Development didn’t have any specific programs directed towards women; however, they had a few programs directed towards homeless men. I wondered why they had such a strong interest in homeless males but not females. During our reflection time with the agency employee, she spoke about how homeless women have a more difficult time dealing with the stigmas associated with being homeless as well as the self-image struggles. It frustrated me more to know that she sees it as though they have a real need, but there is no program to help them. We saw only a few homeless women, so maybe they don’t feel like enough people use their facility to warrant them creating a program.
When we went to the Nashville Rescue Mission to eat I got mixed feelings from their clients. I was uncomfortable when we walked in, because workers from the mission would escort us in and the homeless men would look at us with these sad eyes wondering why we were so special to get to go in and eat while they are standing in line. However, the few clients that I conversed with were very thankful that we were there to volunteer our time, they asked us to come back multiple times. So, my first impression of these individuals was incorrect.
Overall, today was eye opening for me. Driving through downtown Nashville was stressful and nerve racking. Serving at the Campus allowed me the opportunity to gain an awareness of homelessness and see a little of what life is like for them. It was interesting to note how each of them are an individual with a story to tell.
KristinaChampe
Kristina Champe
Alternative Spring Break Reflection
Day 1
3-7-2009
Today our group went to the Nashville Rescue Mission. It was a very humbling experience. When we arrived there we went straight to work in the basement storage area. This area is where they keep all their donations they get from people. They had so much stuff down there. We folded probably a hundred blankets and put them into piles, and stacked at least fifty or so mattresses. There were so many nice people at the Mission. They were very happy to have us there and we were very happy to be there.…….Or were we, I believe that some of us were happier than others?
We met some really nice guys there, one we named PG, and whose real name was Pitman. He was super nice and liked to joke with us. He made the day go by faster and it was fun. Then a few of us girls went upstairs and unpacked some cookies to be served later in the week. While unpacking cookies we noticed that some of the brownies had mold on them, (we threw them away) and didn’t say anything to anyone. Afterwards, we went into the kitchen and put on hairnets, gloves, and aprons and got ready to serve food. We had served some people and then the rest of our group showed up in the kitchen, washed up and got ready to eat. While we were standing there serving there was a situation that was not good at all. One of the girls in our group was standing in the assembly line talking to one of our other girls who was serving. I asked her if she was eating and she said, “I think I’m going to attempt it”. This made my blood boil. I wanted to tell her that this was all there was and that she had better get used to it. I was so mad at her I didn’t know what to say. She was being very rude and disrespectful, not only to us but the people at the Mission. I did not appreciate it at all.
One of the better event of the day happened after we were finished eating. My friend Megan and I went out in to sitting area and were told we could talk to some of the guys if we wanted or we could just clean table. We were on our way to the back of the room and one of guys said hello to us and so we stopped and talked and I am so glad that we did! These guys were so nice and friendly. I was happy that we had found some nice people to talk to. This one guy was asking us if we had eaten and we told them that it was good and that it was better then the food at our school, I don’t think they believed us. They main guy that we talked to sad that it wasn’t always that good and that it was probably because we were here. He also told us some stories about how the staff didn’t like the fact that sometimes they laughed and had a good time. We also met another guy who worked in the kitchen with us and he was super funny and he has two kids and joked and had a great time. At the end when we were waiting to leave, ne of the kitchen workers asked us where we were from and we told him WV and he said “so you guys gave us your spring break to come help us?!” and we said “yes!”.
I think that working at the mission is going to help me grow as a person and help me more with the understanding of my social work major, and I am very thankful that I have to opportunity to be a part of this. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the week will bring.
Alternative Spring Break Reflection
Day 1
3-7-2009
Today our group went to the Nashville Rescue Mission. It was a very humbling experience. When we arrived there we went straight to work in the basement storage area. This area is where they keep all their donations they get from people. They had so much stuff down there. We folded probably a hundred blankets and put them into piles, and stacked at least fifty or so mattresses. There were so many nice people at the Mission. They were very happy to have us there and we were very happy to be there.…….Or were we, I believe that some of us were happier than others?
We met some really nice guys there, one we named PG, and whose real name was Pitman. He was super nice and liked to joke with us. He made the day go by faster and it was fun. Then a few of us girls went upstairs and unpacked some cookies to be served later in the week. While unpacking cookies we noticed that some of the brownies had mold on them, (we threw them away) and didn’t say anything to anyone. Afterwards, we went into the kitchen and put on hairnets, gloves, and aprons and got ready to serve food. We had served some people and then the rest of our group showed up in the kitchen, washed up and got ready to eat. While we were standing there serving there was a situation that was not good at all. One of the girls in our group was standing in the assembly line talking to one of our other girls who was serving. I asked her if she was eating and she said, “I think I’m going to attempt it”. This made my blood boil. I wanted to tell her that this was all there was and that she had better get used to it. I was so mad at her I didn’t know what to say. She was being very rude and disrespectful, not only to us but the people at the Mission. I did not appreciate it at all.
One of the better event of the day happened after we were finished eating. My friend Megan and I went out in to sitting area and were told we could talk to some of the guys if we wanted or we could just clean table. We were on our way to the back of the room and one of guys said hello to us and so we stopped and talked and I am so glad that we did! These guys were so nice and friendly. I was happy that we had found some nice people to talk to. This one guy was asking us if we had eaten and we told them that it was good and that it was better then the food at our school, I don’t think they believed us. They main guy that we talked to sad that it wasn’t always that good and that it was probably because we were here. He also told us some stories about how the staff didn’t like the fact that sometimes they laughed and had a good time. We also met another guy who worked in the kitchen with us and he was super funny and he has two kids and joked and had a great time. At the end when we were waiting to leave, ne of the kitchen workers asked us where we were from and we told him WV and he said “so you guys gave us your spring break to come help us?!” and we said “yes!”.
I think that working at the mission is going to help me grow as a person and help me more with the understanding of my social work major, and I am very thankful that I have to opportunity to be a part of this. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the week will bring.
StephenReed
Today we went to the Nashville Rescue Mission. We started at 8 am, first meeting a gentlemen by the name of Willie the coordinator of the center. He kept everyone in line and heading in the right direction. He first told us that the center use to be a Sears which was transformed into what we now know as the NRM.
We started off by cleaning an area out of shoes so they would know which to keep for later and ones to give to the normal people coming in and out of the center. As we were working, they saw that we were becoming thirsty and rewarded us for our work by quenching our thirst. That is when I met a guy named Pittman. He was a member of the program they have at the rescue mission. He asked me to help him retrieve our drinks so I walked and talked to him. He told me that they have 100 members in a seven month program to rehabilitate anyone that is asking for the help no matter if they have a gambling problem or a drug problem-they are there to help. He told me it was a great
program , he didn’t go into his personal problem but said that it has helped him many times over. The mission takes the 100 people that are in the private program and have them work in house. Each of the members work 6hrs a day around 5 days a week. Pittman and I served the group with beverages making the whole troop happier as they worked like busy little bees. As we moved into lunch time they served us lunch which was very good. We then served the members their food after that we cleared the tables and talked to some of the other members. Once we got done there we went back down stairs working on sorting blankets to cover the newly homeless or just to give the regulars new covers so that they can stay warm on the cold nights of Nashville. Willie also informed us that they have 100 members on the program that stay in dorm like rooms during there seven month stay. Then they house 300 members over night every night & also house another 100 when needed. Then Willie told us more stories of what he has seen while we were resting from all our hard working from he kept telling us that even if we don’t think we made a dent in all they need done but we surely improved the housing donation area. Then they fed us again which was rather nice of them. Then we headed back to the hotel to have much needed reflection and rest. I would love to go there every year to help them out for a week.
We started off by cleaning an area out of shoes so they would know which to keep for later and ones to give to the normal people coming in and out of the center. As we were working, they saw that we were becoming thirsty and rewarded us for our work by quenching our thirst. That is when I met a guy named Pittman. He was a member of the program they have at the rescue mission. He asked me to help him retrieve our drinks so I walked and talked to him. He told me that they have 100 members in a seven month program to rehabilitate anyone that is asking for the help no matter if they have a gambling problem or a drug problem-they are there to help. He told me it was a great
program , he didn’t go into his personal problem but said that it has helped him many times over. The mission takes the 100 people that are in the private program and have them work in house. Each of the members work 6hrs a day around 5 days a week. Pittman and I served the group with beverages making the whole troop happier as they worked like busy little bees. As we moved into lunch time they served us lunch which was very good. We then served the members their food after that we cleared the tables and talked to some of the other members. Once we got done there we went back down stairs working on sorting blankets to cover the newly homeless or just to give the regulars new covers so that they can stay warm on the cold nights of Nashville. Willie also informed us that they have 100 members on the program that stay in dorm like rooms during there seven month stay. Then they house 300 members over night every night & also house another 100 when needed. Then Willie told us more stories of what he has seen while we were resting from all our hard working from he kept telling us that even if we don’t think we made a dent in all they need done but we surely improved the housing donation area. Then they fed us again which was rather nice of them. Then we headed back to the hotel to have much needed reflection and rest. I would love to go there every year to help them out for a week.
EricThomas
Eric Thomas
March 6, 2009
Alternative Spring Break
Sally Campbell
March 6, 2009-Saturday
Some things you think you know what going on in life; however, an event or realization changes your view of how things really are. As we was driving throughout Nashville today and stopped at a red light, a realization hit me. There was a man setting on a bench with two little bags full of clothes and his belongings and he was shaking because he was so cold. When we pulled into the parking lot of the homeless shelter, another realization hit me. There weren’t just a few people that were homeless; however there was hundreds that didn’t have a home. Seeing this caused me to become grateful for what I have because I could lose what I have in second and be in the same situation as these people that I was helping. I want to help these people also because one of these days I might be in there situation and I would like to receive the same help if somehow I would find myself in the same situation. The people in the shelter also were very nice and respectable to us because we were helping them and we were trying to do the right thing. One guy said something to me that stuck with me. He told me that I needed to stay in school and I needed to vote regular. I have thought about this and he was trying to relay to me that he didn’t stay in school and that is why he ended up the way he did and he doesn’t have the privilege to vote anymore because he lost that right and it something that you need respect and don’t take it for granted.
The first day was very interesting and I can’t wait to see what is going to happen tomorrow.
March 6, 2009
Alternative Spring Break
Sally Campbell
March 6, 2009-Saturday
Some things you think you know what going on in life; however, an event or realization changes your view of how things really are. As we was driving throughout Nashville today and stopped at a red light, a realization hit me. There was a man setting on a bench with two little bags full of clothes and his belongings and he was shaking because he was so cold. When we pulled into the parking lot of the homeless shelter, another realization hit me. There weren’t just a few people that were homeless; however there was hundreds that didn’t have a home. Seeing this caused me to become grateful for what I have because I could lose what I have in second and be in the same situation as these people that I was helping. I want to help these people also because one of these days I might be in there situation and I would like to receive the same help if somehow I would find myself in the same situation. The people in the shelter also were very nice and respectable to us because we were helping them and we were trying to do the right thing. One guy said something to me that stuck with me. He told me that I needed to stay in school and I needed to vote regular. I have thought about this and he was trying to relay to me that he didn’t stay in school and that is why he ended up the way he did and he doesn’t have the privilege to vote anymore because he lost that right and it something that you need respect and don’t take it for granted.
The first day was very interesting and I can’t wait to see what is going to happen tomorrow.
AkeyaCarterBozman
Akeya Carter-Bozman
Alternative Spring Break Reflection No.1
March 7, 2009
The Nashville Campus for Human Development was the first stop on our Alternative Spring Break mission. Upon arrival at the Campus the entire group felt out of place, scared, and nervous. As the van pulled into the parking lot, looking into to the eyes of the homeless men and women sent chills through my body. Then reality set in and I realized that I would be spending all day working around and with them. We sat in the van tense wondering what would happen after we were out of the safety of our vans. I always believed that I am a pretty tolerant person, but my ideals were truly put to the test today. I have always believed or at least I thought I believed that everyone has a story about their life and sometimes life deals people a bad hand and they end up homeless or worse. Today my eyes were opened to the real world. Society apparently really does not care about the less fortunate, or the socially oppressed. The looks the homeless people received from the Nashville Elite made me sick to my stomach, and sadly enough I had the same look on my face when I exited the van.
As a future social worker numerous times in class lectures and discussions have been lead on why people are homeless, and today was the first time I realized how much of an at risk population they are. But one thing class and text books can’t show us is real life day to day homelessness. As I took a water break I saw laughter, smiling, and genuine generosity; all this coming from the homeless men and women. Their actions shocked me, “why on earth,” would they be so happy? Anyway I am tired, more information to come tomorrow and the coming days.
Alternative Spring Break Reflection No.1
March 7, 2009
The Nashville Campus for Human Development was the first stop on our Alternative Spring Break mission. Upon arrival at the Campus the entire group felt out of place, scared, and nervous. As the van pulled into the parking lot, looking into to the eyes of the homeless men and women sent chills through my body. Then reality set in and I realized that I would be spending all day working around and with them. We sat in the van tense wondering what would happen after we were out of the safety of our vans. I always believed that I am a pretty tolerant person, but my ideals were truly put to the test today. I have always believed or at least I thought I believed that everyone has a story about their life and sometimes life deals people a bad hand and they end up homeless or worse. Today my eyes were opened to the real world. Society apparently really does not care about the less fortunate, or the socially oppressed. The looks the homeless people received from the Nashville Elite made me sick to my stomach, and sadly enough I had the same look on my face when I exited the van.
As a future social worker numerous times in class lectures and discussions have been lead on why people are homeless, and today was the first time I realized how much of an at risk population they are. But one thing class and text books can’t show us is real life day to day homelessness. As I took a water break I saw laughter, smiling, and genuine generosity; all this coming from the homeless men and women. Their actions shocked me, “why on earth,” would they be so happy? Anyway I am tired, more information to come tomorrow and the coming days.
JessicaKirk
Kirk, Jessica
3-07-09
Alternative Spring Break Trip Nashville
Day One
If today is an indicator of what the alternative trip to Nashville, Tennessee is going to be like then I am in for a really long, exhausting week for me and the other participants. So, far the Nashville trip has been a real eye opener in really positive ways and also some negative ways.
Today is only the first day but I can already tell that this trip is going to a very rewarding experience. This trip is definitely a very enlightening experience, I am even more thankful for my family and way of life. Its easy for one to say that they empathize for what these homeless people have to endure everyday, but to witness it first hand will definitely put everything into perspective. When I go to bed every night I have a warm bed to go to, but when the homeless people of Nashville go to bed many do not even have a building to sleep in. Fortunately, the people at the Campus for Human Development offer them a safe and warm place to stay the night. I honestly don't know if I could survive one month in the place which makes me respect them even more. Respect is definitely something these people deserve, but unfortunately don't always receive. Many people say that respect is earned and not given, and many of the homeless people that I met today definitely have earned respect.
Although the trip is very rewarding there is always drawback to an experience of this nature. One I first got out of the van I will admit I was scared, nervous, and very anxious as to what it was going to be like at the site. Once I stepped off the bus and looked around those feelings was soon replaced with frustration and annoyance. I have never been a fan of cigarette smoking with my paretns to begin with, but to see people who are homeless lined up outside the building smoking cigarettes frustrated me. I get that an addiction is hard to kick, but when you are homeless there seems to be more important things you could chose to spend what little money you have on. Of all things that could frustrate me it is cigarette smoking that made me mad.
One story that is kind of interesting for me at least is the trip to the Nashville Rescue Mission for our lunch break. When we walked through the door which also have metal detectors we are immediately rushed through to the cafeteria by a nice, but very big and stern man. As he was leading us to the cafeteria he was constantly telling people to make room and back away for us, like we was the President of the United States of America or something. Which only added to the awkwardness of the situation, because we got to eat before everyone else and I could tell that some of them wasn't happy about it, and some even verbalized it. Some asked us "are you going to get you some lobster or shrimp soup" and another man when told to back up responded "why would I wanna touch ya's nasty asses". This kind of was insulting considering we was trying to help, but many others actually thanked us for what we was doing which made up for the rude remarks.
Today was a very insightful and enriching experience I will definitely remember this day for the rest of my life, but Ill be the first to admit that I hope everyday isn't this eventful and exhausting.
3-07-09
Alternative Spring Break Trip Nashville
Day One
If today is an indicator of what the alternative trip to Nashville, Tennessee is going to be like then I am in for a really long, exhausting week for me and the other participants. So, far the Nashville trip has been a real eye opener in really positive ways and also some negative ways.
Today is only the first day but I can already tell that this trip is going to a very rewarding experience. This trip is definitely a very enlightening experience, I am even more thankful for my family and way of life. Its easy for one to say that they empathize for what these homeless people have to endure everyday, but to witness it first hand will definitely put everything into perspective. When I go to bed every night I have a warm bed to go to, but when the homeless people of Nashville go to bed many do not even have a building to sleep in. Fortunately, the people at the Campus for Human Development offer them a safe and warm place to stay the night. I honestly don't know if I could survive one month in the place which makes me respect them even more. Respect is definitely something these people deserve, but unfortunately don't always receive. Many people say that respect is earned and not given, and many of the homeless people that I met today definitely have earned respect.
Although the trip is very rewarding there is always drawback to an experience of this nature. One I first got out of the van I will admit I was scared, nervous, and very anxious as to what it was going to be like at the site. Once I stepped off the bus and looked around those feelings was soon replaced with frustration and annoyance. I have never been a fan of cigarette smoking with my paretns to begin with, but to see people who are homeless lined up outside the building smoking cigarettes frustrated me. I get that an addiction is hard to kick, but when you are homeless there seems to be more important things you could chose to spend what little money you have on. Of all things that could frustrate me it is cigarette smoking that made me mad.
One story that is kind of interesting for me at least is the trip to the Nashville Rescue Mission for our lunch break. When we walked through the door which also have metal detectors we are immediately rushed through to the cafeteria by a nice, but very big and stern man. As he was leading us to the cafeteria he was constantly telling people to make room and back away for us, like we was the President of the United States of America or something. Which only added to the awkwardness of the situation, because we got to eat before everyone else and I could tell that some of them wasn't happy about it, and some even verbalized it. Some asked us "are you going to get you some lobster or shrimp soup" and another man when told to back up responded "why would I wanna touch ya's nasty asses". This kind of was insulting considering we was trying to help, but many others actually thanked us for what we was doing which made up for the rude remarks.
Today was a very insightful and enriching experience I will definitely remember this day for the rest of my life, but Ill be the first to admit that I hope everyday isn't this eventful and exhausting.
MeganWebber
Megan Webber
ASB Reflections
March 7, 2009
So today was Day One of working with the homeless population of Nashville and I have yet to experience actually working with the homeless. After going to bed way too late and getting up way too early, our day started at the Nashville Rescue Mission. As we arrived at the Rescue Mission, there were definitely a lot of people standing in the parking lot. Come to find out, those people were those participating in the Half-way House program which is held in the building. To give a small background, I found out today that the Rescue Mission is 100% privately funded and is the serving place for about 900 homeless people living in the area. Of the three floors, the basement is a HUGE storage room (and also where we spent the majority of our day), the second floor is where the kitchen, “cafeteria”, and dorms for those in need of a warm bed, third floor is where the program members live.
We started the day in the huge storage room breaking down boxes, sorting shoes and sheets, and stacking blankets on pallets. It really amazed me how much stuff they had in the room. There were so many random items that people give them. At one point, someone was sorting through a box and found a towel rack. Honestly, why would someone who has no idea where they’re staying night-to-night need a towel rack? At the same time there were so many awesome things that people give. Our group had 17 members and we all split up in our own individual groups to get small tasks done. I mostly sorted through sheets and towels and stacked blankets on pallets. Willie was one of the workers in the Rescue Mission and also the main person telling us different things we could do. Even though our group asked him a bunch of questions, he was upbeat the entire time and never once acted like we got on his nerves, even after lunch when our entire group was exhausted and basically got nothing done.
Speaking of lunch, the food was not bad at all (although from about 6pm until now every time I think about the lunch we had it makes me feel nauseous)! We had spaghetti with bazillion different types of noodles, a bag of popcorn, some type of dessert, and SUPER flat soda. I think it was at one time Pepsi, but by the time we got it the drink was super flat and watery. It’s just weird, although I ate the food without a problem; I guess it’s just the difference of both worlds. I just tried to make the best of both lunch and dinner, but I guess my stomach didn’t have the same idea. One thing that happened around lunch time that REALLY made me angry was when one of the members of our group made a small scene about eating the lunch. She was just so disrespectful, even though no one really heard her comments except for the two or three of us that were serving the food. Someone asked her if she was going to eat and her comment was “I’m going to try.” It was just so rude, she acted like she didn’t even want to attempt to try the food…not to mention there was nothing else to eat, the Rescue Mission is where we’ll be eating for the majority of the trip. Another frustrating moment: feeling like nothing we were doing in the storage room was making a difference. The room was just so big and there was so much to be done it seemed like we weren’t even making a small chunk of difference.
My favorite part of today, and the most rewarding thus far, was during lunch when I sat down with two members of the Half-way House program and just chatted. One of the men, Donnie, was so excited because he had a pass for the day…he got to leave the Rescue Mission for three hours. When I asked him where he was planning to go he talked about how he didn’t know, that he thought about going to the pawn shop down the street to just look around. Donnie talked a lot about how he took stuff apart in his free time, and how he wanted a pen pal. I felt bad when I had to tell him I wasn’t good about that stuff and would probably forget to write him back if he ever wrote me, but I just felt like talking to him and asking questions was enough. The main thing that kept running through my mind was that I had to remember Donnie’s name incase I saw him at any other point during our trip. Well, that’s about all for now. I have so many thoughts and different things to say running through my head, but I want to save some ideas for tomorrow and other days to come. We’ll see what Day Two brings…
ASB Reflections
March 7, 2009
So today was Day One of working with the homeless population of Nashville and I have yet to experience actually working with the homeless. After going to bed way too late and getting up way too early, our day started at the Nashville Rescue Mission. As we arrived at the Rescue Mission, there were definitely a lot of people standing in the parking lot. Come to find out, those people were those participating in the Half-way House program which is held in the building. To give a small background, I found out today that the Rescue Mission is 100% privately funded and is the serving place for about 900 homeless people living in the area. Of the three floors, the basement is a HUGE storage room (and also where we spent the majority of our day), the second floor is where the kitchen, “cafeteria”, and dorms for those in need of a warm bed, third floor is where the program members live.
We started the day in the huge storage room breaking down boxes, sorting shoes and sheets, and stacking blankets on pallets. It really amazed me how much stuff they had in the room. There were so many random items that people give them. At one point, someone was sorting through a box and found a towel rack. Honestly, why would someone who has no idea where they’re staying night-to-night need a towel rack? At the same time there were so many awesome things that people give. Our group had 17 members and we all split up in our own individual groups to get small tasks done. I mostly sorted through sheets and towels and stacked blankets on pallets. Willie was one of the workers in the Rescue Mission and also the main person telling us different things we could do. Even though our group asked him a bunch of questions, he was upbeat the entire time and never once acted like we got on his nerves, even after lunch when our entire group was exhausted and basically got nothing done.
Speaking of lunch, the food was not bad at all (although from about 6pm until now every time I think about the lunch we had it makes me feel nauseous)! We had spaghetti with bazillion different types of noodles, a bag of popcorn, some type of dessert, and SUPER flat soda. I think it was at one time Pepsi, but by the time we got it the drink was super flat and watery. It’s just weird, although I ate the food without a problem; I guess it’s just the difference of both worlds. I just tried to make the best of both lunch and dinner, but I guess my stomach didn’t have the same idea. One thing that happened around lunch time that REALLY made me angry was when one of the members of our group made a small scene about eating the lunch. She was just so disrespectful, even though no one really heard her comments except for the two or three of us that were serving the food. Someone asked her if she was going to eat and her comment was “I’m going to try.” It was just so rude, she acted like she didn’t even want to attempt to try the food…not to mention there was nothing else to eat, the Rescue Mission is where we’ll be eating for the majority of the trip. Another frustrating moment: feeling like nothing we were doing in the storage room was making a difference. The room was just so big and there was so much to be done it seemed like we weren’t even making a small chunk of difference.
My favorite part of today, and the most rewarding thus far, was during lunch when I sat down with two members of the Half-way House program and just chatted. One of the men, Donnie, was so excited because he had a pass for the day…he got to leave the Rescue Mission for three hours. When I asked him where he was planning to go he talked about how he didn’t know, that he thought about going to the pawn shop down the street to just look around. Donnie talked a lot about how he took stuff apart in his free time, and how he wanted a pen pal. I felt bad when I had to tell him I wasn’t good about that stuff and would probably forget to write him back if he ever wrote me, but I just felt like talking to him and asking questions was enough. The main thing that kept running through my mind was that I had to remember Donnie’s name incase I saw him at any other point during our trip. Well, that’s about all for now. I have so many thoughts and different things to say running through my head, but I want to save some ideas for tomorrow and other days to come. We’ll see what Day Two brings…
BrittanyRothausen
Brittany Rothausen
Homeless Service Reflection 1
March 7, 2009 – Day 1
Today my group worked at the campus for human development. We didn’t really know much about the place before we got there so we had no idea what to expect. I’m kind of ashamed to admit it, but when out vans pulled into the parking lot, a lot of us felt intimidated. There were tons of people standing around and I felt like we didn’t belong there. A man came up to me and asked me what West Virginia was like. He pointed to the Nashville skyline ahead of us and asked if it was like that. I replied no, and it struck me that we really were out of our element. Luckily Wendy quickly made us feel at ease by giving us a great tour of the facilities and explaining the various programs and services available to the participants. Then we split off into groups and we began clipping overgrowth around a fence. Initially I had no idea what I was doing but after a while I got the hang of it. We did this for most of the day, then finished up by sorting toiletries and other assorted jobs.
One rewarding moment from the day came when we were leaving the Nashville Rescue Mission and people kept thanking us for giving up our Spring break to come help out. I think it meant a lot to them and most people were incredibly nice to us.
However, the day was full of a lot of frustrations, too. First, I was upset by some of the members of our group who complained about working or getting dirty. I think some of them are missing the point of the trip. Second, there was a really sad moment that came at the end of the day which made me feel like maybe things can’t get any better. As we stood in the common area waiting to leave, we saw some of the participants watching MTV Cribs and commenting on how much money the celebrities make every year and how they waste it. It broke my heart to hear this because it’s so true. As a society we idolize celebrities and they make outrageous amounts of money while there are thousands of people out there that don’t even have a place to live, much less a multi-million “crib.” I know that what we’re doing is important , but it’s upsetting that society’s priorities are so skewed.
Homeless Service Reflection 1
March 7, 2009 – Day 1
Today my group worked at the campus for human development. We didn’t really know much about the place before we got there so we had no idea what to expect. I’m kind of ashamed to admit it, but when out vans pulled into the parking lot, a lot of us felt intimidated. There were tons of people standing around and I felt like we didn’t belong there. A man came up to me and asked me what West Virginia was like. He pointed to the Nashville skyline ahead of us and asked if it was like that. I replied no, and it struck me that we really were out of our element. Luckily Wendy quickly made us feel at ease by giving us a great tour of the facilities and explaining the various programs and services available to the participants. Then we split off into groups and we began clipping overgrowth around a fence. Initially I had no idea what I was doing but after a while I got the hang of it. We did this for most of the day, then finished up by sorting toiletries and other assorted jobs.
One rewarding moment from the day came when we were leaving the Nashville Rescue Mission and people kept thanking us for giving up our Spring break to come help out. I think it meant a lot to them and most people were incredibly nice to us.
However, the day was full of a lot of frustrations, too. First, I was upset by some of the members of our group who complained about working or getting dirty. I think some of them are missing the point of the trip. Second, there was a really sad moment that came at the end of the day which made me feel like maybe things can’t get any better. As we stood in the common area waiting to leave, we saw some of the participants watching MTV Cribs and commenting on how much money the celebrities make every year and how they waste it. It broke my heart to hear this because it’s so true. As a society we idolize celebrities and they make outrageous amounts of money while there are thousands of people out there that don’t even have a place to live, much less a multi-million “crib.” I know that what we’re doing is important , but it’s upsetting that society’s priorities are so skewed.
TacyPyles
Tacy Pyles
Dr. Campbell
TN Alternative Spring Break
Jounal Entry 1
07 March 2009
Today began interesting with mishaps and challenges just like any good mission trip does. After eating what food could be found in the “continental breakfast” and getting lost, we had a pretty humorous morning. But laughter turned to some element of silence and the importance of a good breakfast seemed to quickly fade as we stepped into the largest shelter I have ever visited - and this was just the men’s wing.
We passed bedrooms adequate for two people with bunk beds enough for six. We saw inspirational quotes and passages of Scripture on the walls - lighting the darkness of their everyday life. The Nashville Rescue Mission houses 130 men in this building, but they bring hope to the entire community through their drug and alcohol addiction program, homeless ministry and gambling and sex addiction program combined.
Arriving at 8 in the morning, we worked until 11 in the warehouse (or rather, basement) of the mission. Sorting everything from shoes to sheets and boxes to books, organization was the goal - a very idealistic goal, but a goal nonetheless. We worked under a man by the name of Willy who has been at the mission since 2002.
At 11:00, we went back upstairs to help in the kitchen. After we ate, we helped serve those that live the mission, clean up after them and were simply given the opportunity to talk to them - to hear their story.
One man, who never told me his name, walked in to the kitchen to speak with a man working there. They greeted each other as only friends would - with a huge that erupted in laughter. The man who came into the mission was clean-shaved with a happy yellow smile. He looked at the other man and exclaimed, “I graduated!” The polo with “TSU” plainly embroidered in the corner said it all. He was congratulated by the man working at the mission.
When this TSU graduate overheard we were volunteering from West Virginia, he looked at me and said with surprise in his voice, “You came all the way from West Virginia?” I told him we had and then I asked if he had gone through the program at the Rescue Mission. He said, “Yes, but I never did drug or drank alcohol. I had a gambling problem. In three days, I spend $29,000 and then my daughter found out and got me help. Now, I am done with all that.” His story was both humbling and inspirational.
Throughout the day, multiple workers at the mission thanked us for being there. Perhaps this is one of the things I am struggling with most at this point. I am glad we have been able to be here and I feel like these people bless us more than we could ever bless them. “You’re welcome” avoids these feelings of humility, while “thank you” still says too little. Being here causes the taste of food to lose its excitement, the joy of shopping to fade and the thought of vacation to merely seem selfish. What more is there to life than to love on another? These relationships - they keep people going. The only reason those men are in the Rescue Mission is because they know that the people working there haven’t given up on them. They know they have hope because someone in this world loves them. They are allowed to dream once more because another person is standing beside them holding their hand all the way. This is life and it makes me wonder…what am I doing every other day?
Dr. Campbell
TN Alternative Spring Break
Jounal Entry 1
07 March 2009
Today began interesting with mishaps and challenges just like any good mission trip does. After eating what food could be found in the “continental breakfast” and getting lost, we had a pretty humorous morning. But laughter turned to some element of silence and the importance of a good breakfast seemed to quickly fade as we stepped into the largest shelter I have ever visited - and this was just the men’s wing.
We passed bedrooms adequate for two people with bunk beds enough for six. We saw inspirational quotes and passages of Scripture on the walls - lighting the darkness of their everyday life. The Nashville Rescue Mission houses 130 men in this building, but they bring hope to the entire community through their drug and alcohol addiction program, homeless ministry and gambling and sex addiction program combined.
Arriving at 8 in the morning, we worked until 11 in the warehouse (or rather, basement) of the mission. Sorting everything from shoes to sheets and boxes to books, organization was the goal - a very idealistic goal, but a goal nonetheless. We worked under a man by the name of Willy who has been at the mission since 2002.
At 11:00, we went back upstairs to help in the kitchen. After we ate, we helped serve those that live the mission, clean up after them and were simply given the opportunity to talk to them - to hear their story.
One man, who never told me his name, walked in to the kitchen to speak with a man working there. They greeted each other as only friends would - with a huge that erupted in laughter. The man who came into the mission was clean-shaved with a happy yellow smile. He looked at the other man and exclaimed, “I graduated!” The polo with “TSU” plainly embroidered in the corner said it all. He was congratulated by the man working at the mission.
When this TSU graduate overheard we were volunteering from West Virginia, he looked at me and said with surprise in his voice, “You came all the way from West Virginia?” I told him we had and then I asked if he had gone through the program at the Rescue Mission. He said, “Yes, but I never did drug or drank alcohol. I had a gambling problem. In three days, I spend $29,000 and then my daughter found out and got me help. Now, I am done with all that.” His story was both humbling and inspirational.
Throughout the day, multiple workers at the mission thanked us for being there. Perhaps this is one of the things I am struggling with most at this point. I am glad we have been able to be here and I feel like these people bless us more than we could ever bless them. “You’re welcome” avoids these feelings of humility, while “thank you” still says too little. Being here causes the taste of food to lose its excitement, the joy of shopping to fade and the thought of vacation to merely seem selfish. What more is there to life than to love on another? These relationships - they keep people going. The only reason those men are in the Rescue Mission is because they know that the people working there haven’t given up on them. They know they have hope because someone in this world loves them. They are allowed to dream once more because another person is standing beside them holding their hand all the way. This is life and it makes me wonder…what am I doing every other day?
VanessaAustin
Today was the first day of our volunteer work at Nashville Rescue Mission. When we got there this morning, we started the day by going down to the basement and sorting through men’s shoes for them to pass out to the men at the shelter and the homeless guys. It was rewarding for a guy that either works at the shelter or lives there to thank us for using our spring break to help them. He was thankful that we had used a college “holiday” to come to Nashville, Tennessee and volunteered to help them. It was good to hear that someone appreciated the work that we were doing and for the week that we are going to be doing the rest of the week.
It was frustrating that we didn’t really any interaction with the guys there. They told us that we could go and talk to them while they were eating; however, I felt it was a little too invasive to do something like that when they were eating. I think they should have had someone talk to us about their experiences and how they got to where they were at. It would have been nice to heard from them. It would have beneficial for all of us to hear what it is like and to hear their story. It would have helped motivate us I’m sure. I know it would have helped me.
The guy who supervised us all day today told us all about how they operate. They are fully dependent on donations from the public. They don’t receive any money from the government or federal funding. They rely on people being generous. They have a rehab program for the men. The halfway house is on one of the floors and they are taught religious lessons. They have a few devotions a day and they have to attend a class. Most of the workers that are there now are guys that have come from the rehabilitation program. After they get out, they come back or stay and help the mission. The mission is a great place for these men.
It was frustrating that we didn’t really any interaction with the guys there. They told us that we could go and talk to them while they were eating; however, I felt it was a little too invasive to do something like that when they were eating. I think they should have had someone talk to us about their experiences and how they got to where they were at. It would have been nice to heard from them. It would have beneficial for all of us to hear what it is like and to hear their story. It would have helped motivate us I’m sure. I know it would have helped me.
The guy who supervised us all day today told us all about how they operate. They are fully dependent on donations from the public. They don’t receive any money from the government or federal funding. They rely on people being generous. They have a rehab program for the men. The halfway house is on one of the floors and they are taught religious lessons. They have a few devotions a day and they have to attend a class. Most of the workers that are there now are guys that have come from the rehabilitation program. After they get out, they come back or stay and help the mission. The mission is a great place for these men.
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