Lived Experience Experts
We all know and see the rhetoric that is passed around our communities about what a homeless person looks like and why they are homeless. According to new data released by the National Alliance to End Homelessness, the data is showing us that the main reasons for the increase of homeless people in our communities is due to lack of affordable housing, not enough residual income, health issues, escaping violence, and racial inequity. This paints a very different picture than the homeless criminal who is up to no good, or the old toothless former drug addict that appears on billboards I have been appalled to see in cities across the country. If we want to end homelessness in our communities, then it is time to have some difficult conversations about the community judgement standard and how it blocks our communities from true growth and empowerment. That is why we have created the user forums on this platform. To give everyone a safe place to tell their lived experience story. These stories will help us break down the rhetoric that is keeping programs stagnate. The more examples of how the current rhetoric is fiction, the more opportunity we have to truly effect changes in our systems and down into our communities. Join us for opportunities in advocacy and leadership.  Join
The Community Judgement Standard are those rules and standards that we as a people judge others in our community by. The Community Judgement Standard believes that people who end up on the streets did something to deserve such hardships. When in reality most people in our communities are only one paycheck away from being the streets. The Community Judgement Standard says that people in the streets are worthless and hopeless cases. My personal experience showed that most homeless people including myself are just finding a way to survive a very traumatic situation. Those experiences look different for everyone. Who am I to judge another person for how they cope with trauma? Who are you to judge? We are also people trying to find a way to cope with our own traumas. What’s worse is when life seems to pile up all problems in one big ball of life mess the judgement is harsher to the point where communities are calling for imprisonment for homeless people. That is unacceptable for any community member to imprison or banish another in our community because of circumstances. Circumstances are variable meaning they change, so can our judgement of them.  The only way for us to change the judgement standard is for you to join us in community conversations and advocacy forums.Â
IF we are to have a serious conversation about ending homelessness in our country then there are some simple viewpoints that we need to recognize as hypocrisy between our actions versus our words. In our words we have stated as a country that housing is a human right. What is not our right is to choose how that housing looks or dismissing shelter because it isn’t your definition of housing. In our words we have stated that everyone is entitled to earn a livable wage. Yet when the action comes, we abandon those who are reaching out to make their something better happen and limit the resources available to most vulnerable in our society. In other words, we are not judgey yet as soon as the demographics (how the community looks) in our area begin to change, then we call for the immediate banishment of those who don’t live like us.
We have the Power to Change Our Communities
We the People of the United States are the ones who have to change our own communities. No one else is coming with a white horse and a suit of armor to fix our very broken systems. In order for us to change, we must embrace change. Let down are guard long enough to agree that everyone needs a home, food, and to feel safe, PERIOD. The rest of our arguments are moot if these needs are not available to every human being. It is with one voice we the people must speak and say that these are our unalienable rights as human beings adopted by our own constitution and the UN Bill of Human Rights. We need to demand more housing options even unconventional ones. We need to demand that the systems they created to help us in hard times not leave stuck in poverty. We need to demand more progressive system models that allow people to actually overcome their obstacles with more creative solutions because the ones in place have failed us all. We need to call down the policing in America. More restriction and jail have proven to be a destructive investment of our tax funding and most definitely not how to help a person become self-sufficient. We need to invest those funds into programs that offer real solutions. Want to have a more definitive seat at the table? Come and join our forums and let’s get these conversations going.Â
Unveiling a New Virtual Volunteer Platform: Empowering Urban Survivors and Hustler
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We are thrilled to announce the launch of a groundbreaking initiative that aligns with our mission of empowering individuals in challenging situations. Introducing our new virtual volunteer platform – a comprehensive resource hub designed to equip individuals with practical knowledge and support in key survival areas. From urban camping to legal research for beginners, financial literacy, hustle redefinition, and starting right where you are, our platform is here to make a tangible difference.
Navigating Urban Camping: Tips and Tricks for Survival
We understand the unique challenges that come with urban camping situations. Our platform offers practical advice, expert insights, and peer-to-peer support to help individuals navigate through the complexities of surviving in an urban environment. From finding safe spaces to understanding local resources, we’ve got you covered.
Legal Research for Beginners: Know Your Rights
Legal jargon can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. Our platform simplifies legal research, providing easily digestible information to empower individuals with knowledge about their rights. Whether it’s housing laws, employment rights, or understanding the legal system, our resources will guide you through the basics.
Financial Literacy on a Minimal Budget: Making Every Dollar Count
Surviving on a tight budget requires strategic financial planning. Our financial literacy resources focus on minimal budget resourcing, offering practical tips, budgeting templates, and expert advice to help individuals make the most of their financial resources. Learn to budget, save, and invest wisely in order to secure a better future.
Redefining Hustle as a Survival Skill and a Come Up
In challenging times, a shift in perspective can make all the difference. Our platform redefines the concept of hustle as not just a survival skill but a pathway to personal and professional growth. Explore stories of resilience, success, and innovative hustles that have led individuals to a better life, and discover the power within you to create your own come up.
Beginning Where You Are: Embracing Your Starting Point
Everyone’s journey is unique, and it’s essential to embrace your starting point. Our platform encourages individuals to begin their transformative journey from where they are. Whether you’re starting a new career, pursuing education, or simply seeking personal growth, we provide guidance, encouragement, and success stories to inspire you along the way.
Peer-to-Peer Counselors, Life Coaches, and Industry Experts
The heart of our platform lies in the support network it offers. Connect with experienced peer counselors, life coaches, and industry experts who are dedicated to guiding you through your journey. These mentors bring a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to ensure that no one feels alone in their pursuit of a better life.
Community Resources in Mental Health and Wellness
Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being. Our platform collaborates with community resources to provide access to mental health support and wellness programs. Whether you’re seeking counseling services, support groups, or mindfulness activities, our platform aims to foster a community that prioritizes mental health.
In conclusion, we invite you to explore our new virtual volunteer platform and take advantage of the wealth of resources it offers. We believe that practical knowledge, combined with a supportive community, can be a transformative force. Together, we can empower individuals to not only survive but thrive in the face of challenges.
Visit our platform today and embark on a journey of empowerment, resilience, and growth.
I know that sounds like a lot to promise, especially with budgets already running short. There is a plan. We have to work together to effect change. Want to know more about it click Find Out How.