This was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. COTS, Coalition on Temporary Shelter, is not your average homeless shelter. It is a place in which people who have had a rough time can have a fresh start. COTS really looks to do more than just feed and shelter its clients. What makes COTS so special is the amazing people who work for this company. In my time working with COTS I was able to get to know some of the most inspirational people I have ever met.

I was assigned to the volunteer group for our challenge with COTS. Our goal was assigned to help COTS design new material and come up with fresh ideas on how to attract volunteers, and hopefully future donors, to work for COTS. Our deliverables consisted of video interviews with COTS volunteers, an exciting plan for a volunteer and donor event, and great print material. We were also were able to provide COTS with great digital marketing and social media plans.

I can confidently say that if you donate to COTS your money will be going to great use. I greatly appreciated being able to volunteer my time during our challenge. I volunteered during dinner one day (to serve dinner to COTS clients), in the daycare to help clean the room for the children, and in the clothing room to help clients find clothing.

Many people often look down at homeless people and hold many negative stereotypes about them. Often times people become homeless for no fault of their own. What many people fail to realize is that these people are just like anyone else, and that anyone could be in their place at anytime. Volunteering at COTS could really help people to better empathize with homeless people.

To learn more about COTS, or to learn how you can donate or volunteer please visit their website at www.cotsdetroit.org.

Watch our Challenge 3 video here —> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ky2iCf_gGJ0&feature=c4-overview&list=UUqnv-KM3Kouypn2tuxx-W6w