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New Upper Room Mural painted by Chris Olexio

Volunteering — My Teen’s Amazing Experience

Karen, thank you so much for allowing my son, Brandon, to come with me yesterday. He had a great time and an amazing experience.

I was worried he would be hesitant to help out being the only male but right when he got there he jumped right into working. He opened up all the pork and started cutting them into cubes. Then he even took out the big huge pans and started to quick fry the pork and seasoned them with salt and pepper. He enjoyed cooking 🙂

Yesterday, I saw a side of him I had not seen before. The compassion, integrity, and leadership he took was incredible.

Once we got into the car I asked Brandon if he was ok. He said, “Yes Mom, they are human too. They are hungry, cold, and tired, and just because they don’t look like us and act like us doesn’t mean they don’t deserve the respect we all do. Then he rolled down his window and said, “enjoy your dinner tonight!” They all thanked him.

Karen…that is what this is all about. This is really all I wanted to see. Then he asked, “When are we doing this again?”

Let me know when you need a little extra help and we will be there for you.

Thank you! Great Experience!

Anna

A Message from a Guest

As I have stated many times in the past, and I believe that in these times people may indeed be more acutely aware of the fact, the curse of homelessness can befall any
one of us under the right set of circumstances. Loss of livelihood leaves very little time to recover before you find yourself destitute and wondering what the hell
you’re going to do. And, good people, it’s a long road back. Generally, you’re on your own.

Upon my first visit to the Upper Room, I was genuinely amazed by the care these folks took in our comfort. Being as I was not only hungry but had no knowledge of any programs or benefits to which I might be entitled. They have their ear to the ground and can send you in the right direction, thankfully so.

Another unexpected benefit for me at the time was the people very much in the same position as I but had adjusted to the life as I was attempting to do. These are the people that many look down their noses at. Society’s dregs… Not hardly. I received more help and understanding from those whom I had only just met than I had from any person of blood relation I asked for help. Kind of gives a man a broader perspective on what “family” really means.

Bottom line? This life of emptiness and loneliness… Man, it’s hard. Without the hub of comradely and human connection that is The Upper Room, one might give it up. Give acceptance to the notion that the world is done with you. Every one of my cohorts, finding themselves suffering this plight has something more to contribute. We just need to be made to feel as though we are worthy of the opportunity. This is the place to start.

Many thanks to all who continue to be there for us.
Much love Sincerely.
Keith Saker

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