Have you ever considered how close you could be to becoming homeless?…
Our third Challenge is with The Coalition on Temporary Shelter (COTS). COTS is a homeless shelter that has changed so many lives. Not only does this organization provide shelter, it provides a child care and learning center as well as access to invaluable resources necessary for empowering people to change their lives. In just 2 short weeks I have developed a personal and real understanding of homelessness with a profound new appreciation for the unique realities of everyone around me.
Challenge Detroit Partners with COTS!
My relationship with COTS started with a homelessness simulation on a brisk Friday morning. This exercise was intended to build empathy for those who are homeless and to help the participants truly understand the everyday challenges that these individuals must face. More importantly, it was designed to open our eyes to the true meaning of homelessness and how close we all are. It is amazing to think about how few unfortunate circumstances could make me homeless. Practicing empathy is important to our cause of healing the problem of homelessness because it reveals valuable perspective that uncovers challenges and solutions that otherwise may not have been found. In one morning my eyes were opened to the many layers of homelessness.
The individuals living at COTS are working incredibly hard to make ends meet and the wonderful services COTS provides their customers empowering them to succeed is what sets this organization apart. These services, such as a daycare and career resources, are lead by passionate, genuine staff members. The amazing staff and leadership at COTS are the driving factors for the successful impact of the organization.
This empathy exercise was very important for expanding my understanding of the unique and unpredictable variables that can impact anyone and result in a challenging situation such as homelessness. We must use these experiences and lessons learned to continue to help others in need and prevent the state of homelessness from growing.
For more information or to donate please visit, cotsdetroit.org .