How were you able to show how homelessness affects people around the world during the event?
Our attendees learned and talked about what hunger and homelessness means in different countries. Everyone walked into a room and they got an envelope with an identity of a person from a different country on it. The person either had a high income, middle income, or low income. We then separated them into the groups based on income. It opened a lot of eyes and then we had a discussion about what poverty and hunger means on a global level.
What was the response from participants?
I think that people were more appreciative of what they have. They realized that when you put it on a global scale, they are really blessed. It also motivated people to get involved themselves by doing more volunteering to help people in poverty. Our students have committed to taking on a project for kids in Mombasa, Kenya, [to] help pay school fees and get school supplies for students. They now know that what seems to be a little here can go much further when you take it on a global scale.
How can others get involved and learn more about your organization?
Our organization’s Web site is www.qcul.org or they can call us here at the Quad County Urban League at (630) 851-2203 and my extension is 238. We also have a program centered around getting our students ready for college. Before they become seniors, we provide the steps by teaching them how to apply for college and scholarships. We also do other activities that deal with the social and cultural aspects. So if people want to get involved, we would love to have their help.
Photo: Mark Abston, Monique Bernoudy, Dorletta Payton, Diane Nalin and Amania Drane
