From The Desk of Kathy Jenkins - October 2023
As the days shorten and temperatures cool, the phones at New Directions have started to ring almost nonstop. Calls from both those seeking help and those seeking to help are a constant reminder of how vital our efforts are and how essential our supporters are (you!) to make it all possible.
Often, when we see a homeless individual, feelings of sadness, guilt, or powerlessness arise. With so many in need all around us, it can be hard to know what to do, or how to help. So as we approach the season of giving, below are some ways you can join our efforts and support those experiencing homelessness this fall:
Be Informed. Making yourself aware of the prevalence of homelessness, its underlying causes, and the resources available in our community is vital to help connect those in need with assistance. The United Way’s 211 Resource Center (sc211.org) is a great place to start, and a valuable referral for those in need. And if you have never been on a tour of New Directions, I invite you to visit us in person this fall and learn more about how those in crisis are being assisted. Contact our Development Director, Elizabeth Schlueter, to schedule a tour (843-839-2974 or eschlueter@helpnewdirections.org) You will leave inspired knowing the impact your support has on those in need!
Volunteer. Volunteers make our work possible and we have several open volunteer positions, both during the week and on the weekends. Whether you enjoy volunteering with a group to complete a project once a year, or like to volunteer a few hours weekly, there are so many ways to get involved and we can use your help! Contact our Event & Volunteer Coordinator, Erica Guyton (843-839-2307 or eguyton@helpnewdirections.org) to learn more.
Participate in National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week November 11 - 18. National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness week is an annual opportunity to shine a spotlight on the problems of hunger and homelessness. New Directions will be collecting donations throughout this week through our “Fill the Truck” Donation Drive at our Men’s Shelter, and at several other locations along the Grand Strand (TBA on social media). See page 3 for a list of the donations we are collecting.
Make a Plan for Your Year-End Giving. As you make your year-end giving plans and think about the impact you will have in 2024, I invite you to join us in providing help, hope, and a way forward to those in crisis. More than ever, we are counting on your support!
Thank you in advance for your support and partnership this fall! I can’t wait to see how lives are changed through your support!
Kathy Jenkins, CEO