Our Village’s Post

Today we launched a new self help tool for people facing family violence - a Home of Your Own. It's about understanding your rights, and taking action. We know that family violence is a leading cause of housing insecurity for women and children, who represent three-quarters of people accessing homelessness services. We also know the numbers of people at risk continues to grow and that the impact of violence and homelessness radiates out into the community. This tool was co-designed with women who've lived experience of family violence and homelessness, together with frontline community workers. By answering a few anonymous questions about their situation, renters facing family violence can learn about their rights, and be directly supported to take practical steps in maintaining or accessing safe housing, including by creating personalised documents to communicate with their rental providers.  Please share with anyone who might need it.

🌟 Volunteers of America-Texas | Continues to be one of the Mint Female Federal Bureau of Prisons programs nationwide. An initiative aimed at revolutionizing the reentry experience for women in federal custody. Here's why it's a game-changer: 1️⃣ Tailored Support: The Mint Program is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of women in federal custody. From trauma-informed care to gender-responsive programming, we're providing tailored support to help women thrive during and after incarceration. 2️⃣ Empowerment Through Education: Education is key to unlocking opportunities. That's why the Mint Program offers a wide range of educational opportunities, from GED classes to vocational training, empowering women to build brighter futures for themselves. 3️⃣ Comprehensive Reentry Services: Our program offers a comprehensive array of reentry services, including job placement assistance, housing support, and substance abuse treatment. By addressing the root causes of incarceration, we're helping women successfully reintegrate into society. 4️⃣ Community Engagement: We believe in the power of community. The Mint Program fosters connections between women in custody and community organizations, creating a support network that extends far beyond prison walls. 5️⃣ Promoting Rehabilitation and Reconciliation: At the heart of the Mint Program is a commitment to rehabilitation and reconciliation. By providing women with the tools and support they need to heal and grow, we're paving the way for brighter futures and stronger communities. 🌱 Women in prison are often the primary or sole caregivers of children prior to incarceration. For offenders who will give birth during their incarceration, there are two programs offered to assist these mothers before, during, and after childbirth; these include Mothers and Infants Together (MINT) and the Residential Parenting Program (RPP). The MINT Program is a community residential program that aims to assist offenders during pregnancy.

𝗧𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗛𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 - The Switch Witch. I’d like to thank whichever smart person invented the concept of the Switch Witch, who comes to children on Halloween night, replacing their candy with a prize of your choosing. After all, kids don’t need all that candy! But neither do their parents, so what to do with the overflow (once you’ve sorted out the good stuff for yourself, of course!)? 𝗜𝗗𝗘𝗔: Operation Gratitude, which ships the candy to U.S. Troops, is one possibility. Other local options include dropping it off at children’s hospitals, homeless shelters or food pantries, or nursing homes. Make sure to call first to make sure they will accept the donation due to Covid-19. 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲: http://ow.ly/moZH50GxFqp 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝗱𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗹𝘆. 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝘀𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝘆. 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗼𝗸𝘆.

Let’s do what we can

The Prime Legacy of Global Powerhouse | Dan Murphy's | Gregory Anderson—The Empowering Influence of Empathy and Kindness in Corporate Social Responsibility: Inspiring Global Change for the Homeless In a world where profit margins are often prioritized over compassion, an individual has emerged as a beacon of hope for the homeless population through an universal commitment to kindness and empathy. Dan Murphy, a visionary leader in the field of corporate social responsibility (CSR), has not only successfully raised funds to support the homeless but has also initiated a global movement of goodwill and social transformation. The intersection of CSR, ethical leadership, and societal impact has never been more crucial than in today's increasingly interconnected world. Murphy's actions serve as a poignant reminder of the transformative power that businesses possess in shaping a more equitable and inclusive society. By extending a helping hand to those in need, he has not only alleviated the suffering of the homeless but has also sparked a ripple effect of generosity and compassion that transcends borders and cultures. At the core of Dan Murphy's endeavors lies a deep-seated belief in the ethical foundation of CSR – a belief that businesses have a moral obligation to make positive contributions to society and uplift those who are marginalized and vulnerable. Through his strategic framework for ethical leadership, a new standard for corporate philanthropy has been established by Dan Murphy, one that prioritizes empathy, kindness, and authentic human connection above all else. As we navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world, Dan Murphy's example serves as a guiding light for both businesses and individuals. His actions remind us that true leadership is not solely measured by profits but by the impact we have on the lives of others and the legacy of compassion we leave behind. In an era characterized by uncertainty and division, let us draw inspiration from Dan Murphy's remarkable journey and commit ourselves to creating a world where kindness and empathy are paramount. Together, we can forge a future where every individual – regardless of their circumstances – is treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. Let’s unite and embark on a collective journey towards a more just, inclusive, and compassionate world – a world where the homeless are not forgotten but embraced with open hearts and outstretched hands. Together, a difference can be made. Together, a brighter future for all can be created. Join in the movement for change. Together, the world can be transformed, one act of kindness at a time.

This past year I have proudly dedicated my time as a Board member and Volunteer to Humble Design Chicago. They provide design services, donated furniture, bedding, kitchen items, curtains and everything else that goes into turning a house into a home for families that have successfully fought their way out of homelessness at no cost.  Our work takes away the stress from our clients so that they can successfully focus on their families and their jobs, while being proud of what they have accomplished.  This year we have seen an uptick in the amount of mothers, children and veterans seeking a fresh start. Our organization needs more support than ever to meet the increasing demand. We are seeking humble monetary donations from our Humble friends to help. It’s an investment that changes lives and our communities, as less than 6% of Humble Design clients return to homelessness after one year, compared with the national statistic of 50%.Just as we help our family and friends when they get their first place and have significant life changes, I would like to raise enough to help at least one family make this transition.  Each deco day moves children off the floor and puts them into warm beds, give their parents peace of mind and hope, and allow families to gather and plan their futures around a kitchen table.Can I please get your help towards my goal by making a donation? What you give today helps Humble do a one-day home transformation that would typically take a Humble client more than 18 years to save enough money to do on their own. Every humble donation through the link below will add up to make this happen!  https://lnkd.in/eurERiEW

What’s missing at Bridging? BLANKETS, especially the bed sized for twin, full, and queen beds. As client appointment levels rise, so does our need to adequately stock the shelves for shopping. We need 300 bed sized blankets available every week, for a total of 15,000 donated each year! When we say “blanket”, we mean comforters, bed spreads, and blankets. They cover a mattress completely, provide warmth, and support a good night’s sleep! Gently used and new donations are accepted. How can you help during the September Blanket Blitz? Continue to donate from your own home. Tell others in your network and neighborhood that we are in desperate need. Coordinate a blanket collection at work, school, or in your faith community. See Joel or Danyelle about hosting a blanket drive. Reminder: Yes, we accept throw sized blankets! But, we have a healthy supply of those and isn’t our greatest need.

🌟 Upcoming Clothing Drive: A Community Effort! 🌟 Hello everyone, We're excited to announce that Helping Our Returning Neighbors, with the support of Dragonfly Mobile Notary & Fingerprinting, will soon be launching a much-needed clothing drive! We’re collecting gently used men’s clothing to support men transitioning from prison back into our community. Your donations can make a world of difference, providing these individuals with the essentials they need to start anew and avoid returning to crime. Why This Matters: When these men are released, they often have nothing but the clothes on their backs. By donating, you are giving them a second chance at life, helping them rebuild their confidence and integrate successfully into society. How You Can Help: Donate Clothing: Start setting aside gently used men’s clothing. Every piece helps! Spread the Word: Share this post with your network to amplify our impact. Support Financially: Consider making a financial donation to further support our mission. About Helping Our Returning Neighbors: We visit three area prisons weekly to build relationships of trust, preparing men for a successful transition. Our comprehensive support includes life skills training, trauma support, and mentorship, all aimed at reducing recidivism. About Dragonfly Mobile Notary & Fingerprinting: We’re proud to support this vital initiative. As a community-focused business, Dragonfly Mobile Notary & Fingerprinting believes in giving back and supporting those in need. Stay tuned for more details on the start date and drop-off locations. Together, we can make a significant impact and help these men build a brighter future. Thank you for your kindness and generosity! #HelpingOurReturningNeighbors #ClothingDrive #CommunitySupport #SecondChances #DragonflyMobileNotary #GivingBack #Support

On this #NationalDayOfServiceandRemembrance, let's honor the lives lost on 9/11 by embodying the spirit of unity and compassion that arose in its aftermath. Dedicating ourselves to serving our communities is a powerful way to pay tribute to those we lost and create a more positive future. Here are some meaningful ways you can give back: ⏩Volunteer at a Local Food Bank: Help pack meals for those in need and ensure no one goes hungry. ⏩Participate in a Community Clean-Up: Join local efforts to beautify your neighborhood and create a welcoming environment for all. ⏩Donate Blood: Consider donating blood at a local blood drive to help save lives in your community. ⏩Support a Veteran Organization: Volunteer your time or donate to organizations that support veterans and their families. ⏩Perform Random Acts of Kindness: Whether it’s paying for someone’s coffee or writing a note of appreciation, small gestures can make a big impact. Let's turn this day of remembrance into a day of action. Share your ideas for serving others in the comments below! #ServiceToOthers #HonorAndRemember #911 #NeverForget

🧡💫 "Every Child Deserves Their Mother" - The bond between a mother and child is irreplaceable, yet it's being broken every day by a system that incarcerates Black mothers at alarming rates. Your small donation can make a huge impact. It's about more than money—it's about restoring families, healing communities, and fighting against a system that tears them apart. We're committed to dismantling a system that leaves children motherless and communities fragmented. Help us bail out Black mamas, reconnect families, and provide the supportive services necessary for a new start. 🖤🔓 Your contribution can empower and uplift. Scan to donate, act to change lives. 📲✊🏾 . . . . . #BlackMamasMatter #BailOut #JusticeSystemReform #IncarcerationCrisis #PretrialDetention #BailOutMamas #RestoreFamilies #FightInequality #CaregiversBehindBars #JusticeForMoms #CommunityHealing #BlackFamiliesMatter #MothersInNeed #EndPretrialDetention #SocialImpact #CommunityCare #RacialJustice #ChangeTheSystem #EmpowerWomen #BlackFamilyReunification #SupportBlackWomen #JusticeAndEquity #BarredBusinessCares