House of Hope

I love my (not so) new job!  Working for a non-profit is rewarding and fulfilling. I feel fortunate to work in such a special place and enjoy the aura of the building. I call it the house of hope.  Each day I feel surrounding by hope. I don't feel that many can say that, and feel blessed to call the Homeless Prenatal Program my second home.

When I took the job last summer, I got a lot of questions and comments from people such as,  "Will you be paid?"  "Are you safe?" and my favorite "That sounds super depressing - why would you do that?"  Since I was 14, I have been a volunteer in various capacities, working as a candy-striper and tutor and assisting with fundraising events. I have learned much through these experiences, but am excited to be a place (homelessprenatal.org) that is truly making a positive impact on the world.  Our success rate is high because people come to HPP when they are truly ready to make a change.

Our building is full of optimism. The walls are colorful, the offices organized and the staff excellent. Its hard work and we don't get paid much (but we do all have benefits. A true team effort, the expectations of the team are high and all resources shared. Our staff of 70 would do anything for anyone. When you walk in the doors, you are an equal, whether you are a volunteer, someone looking for help or a longtime client family. We all have one thing in common - we all believe in a second chance. Everyone wants a healthy, happy family - some just need a boost to get there. That's why we are here.

As I look at my coworkers, many of whom have overcome incredible obstacles, I realize a few different decisions or being born to a different family, and I could have easily been in a similar situation. I can see how a few mis-steps could propel one into the wrong direction. But that doesn't mean that the path you choose is definite. My pay cut is made up for the fact that I am allowed to cry if I hear an inspiring story, I get hugs often from clients and coworkers and I get a view of the city that is unmatched. I also receive rides home from our Executive Director. And I receive thank you's all the time.  Not bad for a days work.

2012 is my year

2011 was not the best year for me. I spent the majority of it being disappointed by people. Why would I waste my time, you may be thinking. I asked myself the same question and figured it out: it's because I was brought up around good people who do good things. I am late to learn that life is just not that way for most. People have only their personal best interests in mind you must do the same. This doesn't mind I am going to love less or even give less freely. It simply means I will be a bit more wary in my interactions and spend more time on the fantastic people around me who build me up and support me. I will forget the rest. I feel better and stronger already. I am today more grateful than ever for the goodness I have been taught and the support system that was given to me that I have built on. As Dr. Seuss said best, "Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." this is my new motto. I have few regrets but most of them involve the timing of words or leaving something out. I won't leave anything out from now on and will remind people I love them more. 2012 is a good year already. I have a cool job, diverse friends and an amazing and growing family. Cheers to you.