Helping the helpless

Did you see this story: When an engaged couple calls off the wedding, it is usually a time of sadness and anger. But one family in Atlanta found a way to turn a terrible situation into a beautiful one. Carol and Willie Fowler's daughter Tamara was set to get married at the Villa Christina catering hall, when the wedding was called off just 40 days before the event. Initially the Fowlers were upset to hear that the lavish gathering they had planned and paid for was not going to happen. Then they had a genius and generous idea: They invited 200 of the city's homeless to feast on the four-course meal that would have been part of Tamara's wedding reception.

Magnificent, and it got me to thinking. What if every big event we get ourselves into was turned into an opportunity to help the poor, the homeless, the hurting, the helpless?

Let's explore some of the ideas out there. What if, just what if, every big ticket event was held for the homeless in whatever community the event was? In other words, every wedding reception, invite 50 homeless and feed them and clothe them instead of spending all that money on limos and such. What if, just what if, at Christmas we took the money for two gifts to each of the persons we give gifts to and instead made sure the homeless had peace on earth in December, or at least a piece of turkey and such?

In Washington D.C. last year,  they held a Banding Together: Battle of the Law Firm Bands (made up of attorneys for two firms, that raised more than $277,000 to purchase and distribute essential new clothing at bulk low wholesale prices for the DC area homeless, including socks, underwear, hats and gloves. The possibilities are endless.

Here's the top five tips you might consider when passing by a homeless person, shelter, or simply a person who needs help in your community. According to JustGive.org ...

1. Understand who the homeless are - Help dispel the stereotypes about the homeless. Learn about the different reasons for homelessness, and remember, every situation is unique.
2. Educate yourself about the homeless - A homeless person may be someone who lost their job, a runaway child, or someone with a mental illness. One of the first steps in helping people is to see them as individuals and to find out what they need. Notice them; talk to them. Most are starved for attention.
3. Respect the homeless as individuals - Give the homeless people the same courtesy and respect you would accord your friends, your family, your employer. Treat them as you would wish to be treated if you needed assistance.
4. Respond with kindness - We can make quite a difference in the lives of the homeless when we respond to them, rather than ignore or dismiss them. Try a kind word and a smile.
5. Develop lists of shelters - Carry a card that lists local shelters so you can hand them out to the homeless. You can find shelters in your phone book.

Look, we're heading toward a time of the year when coats and socks are a marvelous addition to the people who populate our streets. This year, instead of spending fortunes on ourselves, let's make absolutely sure we've done all we can to help those around us who are in desperate need.

Heck, throw a party and invite some in.