I joined this Group (Giving Back) because....
As the executive director of a non profit, charitable organization, I know that many local, service oriented charities are overburdened, understaffed, under funded, and under appreciated. Some years they spend five dollars for every dollar raised... oftentimes going into to debt themselves just to serve the people in need. They are available to help keep people from falling through the cracks and all but forgotten during the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Sure, we all dig deep when a natural disaster strikes... but do we, as a people, see how life's non-catostrophic struggles can tear apart families?
The threat of losing one's home can rip a family apart. Losing a home often does.
In my world, most people think foreclosure is self-inflicted, and only happens to the irresponsible. "Why should I give to help people save their homes when losing it is their own damn fault! Let them get off their lazy butts and work... just like I do!"
But most of the families I see have a hard working parent(s), in some cases having been forced to replace their long time employment for one, two or more part-time, low wage/no benefit jobs. They don't take vacations, have expensive cars, 60" TVs and their kids don't wear $160 sneakers. Sometimes, they pay for food and medicine with their Visa cards. Without exception these folks would love to turn back the clock and return to their former job and paycheck... but can't.
While a few people may abuse the credit system and pay the price... these are the ones featured on TV during sweeps weeks... most are fustrated with their circumstances and need, at a minimum, understanding and compassion.
The last thing they need is to be duped by vultures seeking to further exploit their circumstances with empty promises, unfullfilled services, and/or being stripped of any remaining equity, or dignity.
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