The Value of a Donation
After finishing my undergrad at Tulane University, I found myself faced with the question dreaded by all students at family gatherings: What do you want to do with your life? I knew that I had found a passion for working in community building and social equity while at Tulane, but I was left wondering how that translated to the world of 9 to 5.
This eventually led me to decide to do an AmeriCorps year in New Orleans. I wasn't ready to say goodbye to a place that continues to make me reevaluate what it means to show up and step up for the people in our community. When I first arrived at the Harry Tompson Center for my initial interview, I was overdressed and over-nervous. What I initially thought would be a one-on-one interview became a group affair, with Emily, Eva, and Paisleigh giving me a taste of the passion, support, and respect that is so central to HTC’s mission.
A month into my journey, I am continually in awe of the community fostered at the Center. Working both the front door and shower service, I have learned there is no role in the HTC that is too small. Whether a staff member, a volunteer, or visitor from one of our many community partner agencies, everyone is working together to create a humanizing experience for the guests we serve. I have never been so excited in my life to receive and sort t-shirts, underwear, and toothbrushes. What I used to take for granted as everyday items, I now see as a way to provide a little extra comfort, security, and humanity to our guests.
When thinking about the value of a donation, I think about how each donation really has the power to change our guests’ days and I think about how having a generous and giving spirit is at the core of the Harry Tompson Center’s approach to both their guests and staff alike.
Although I have never met most people reading this blog, I know that you, just like me, understand how special a place this is. Whether you’ve come for a visit, used to volunteer here, or maybe once knew Father Tompson, you’ve been touched by the ministry of this place and you know that something as small as a pair of socks can make the day for someone experiencing homelessness.
I may be unsure of what I’m doing with my life after AmeriCorps, but one thing is for certain: this holiday season as I gather with my family members, I’ll be able to tell them with confidence that I love what I do and that I’m so happy to be part of a community where we show up, step up, and make a real difference.