Today I got an e-mail about an opportunity to get a paid internship. It's the Greensboro Justice Summer 2011 Internship Program. They are looking for ten interns to work on social justice and social change issues in Greensboro. AHHHHHHH!!!!!! I want this so badly.
It was just a few days ago that someone asked me this question: "If you could do anything, regardless of money and restraints, what would you do?" Now, I have lots of answers to that question, but the one that has really been the one lately is: end poverty in Greensboro. That's a huge undertaking, but I believe it's totally possible. Those agencies that provide immediate relief (short term shelters, food banks, etc.) have to combine with those willing to buckle down and stick it out for the long haul. I'm talking about education, job training, AND job opportunities.
My idea is that the private sector could really come together on this. If Greensboro businesses would pledge to hire and retain a certain number of homeless employees, then I believe we could be on our way to truly ending poverty. Unfortunately, giving someone a job isn't as flashy as handing out food or building a house for Habitat. Those things are great when done properly, but they aren't enough in and of themselves.
Granted, those business owners would be taking a risk. Some of these employees may not have held a stable job in years. They may have mild mental health concerns. They may be battling addiction and sickness and other variables that have added to the reasons why they are homeless. I think though, that someone has to stick their neck out. Someone has to take a chance. There is so much wasted talent, skill, and passion among those who have simply hit a rough patch, and need a boost up. This isn't about pity or altruism, but about seeing people. People who could be us.
My heart is bursting with the desire to put this plan into action. Unfortunately, I'm an English major. Not Political Science or Business. I firmly believe, though, that there's a reason that I have this passion. Maybe this internship is a way to start making the connections that will bring this idea to life!
I'm putting in my application soon. Keep me in your thoughts and prayers! If you are also interested in changing Greensboro, let me know! I'd love to hear your thoughts and ideas too.
So now I wanna turn the questions around.
If YOU could do anything, regardless of money and restraints, what would you do?
