Discussion on Homelessness in Central Illionis
02/13/2023
Beth Clark
Please add your thoughts to this interactive commentary about your experience at the Beyond Giving Event at the Dream Center on February 7, 2023.
Approximately 30 members of Impact Central Illinois attended the Beyond Giving Educational Event at the Dream Center on Febuary 7, 2023. The hour discussion was led by Dream Center employee, Kristy Schofield, who generously shared her own story about being homeless after leaving an abusive marriage. She and her two children were living in their car when God led Kristy to the Dream Center. Kristy knew she was in a safe and blessed place where she and her children found support and healing. When Kristy was back on her feet, she became a Dream Center employee and today she is the Dream Center Housing Director. Her story began 21 years ago and her committment to the Dream Center and the homeless population in Central Illinois was apperant to all us in attendance.
Impact members asked dozen of questions and Kristy's honest answers were enlightening and educational. The discussion was conculded after the alotted hour, but left members wanting more. Sixteen members stayed for a tour, led by Michelle Luther, Dream Center Office Manager.
Beth Clark
Please add your thoughts to this interactive commentary about your experience at the Beyond Giving Event at the Dream Center on February 7, 2023.
Approximately 30 members of Impact Central Illinois attended the Beyond Giving Educational Event at the Dream Center on Febuary 7, 2023. The hour discussion was led by Dream Center employee, Kristy Schofield, who generously shared her own story about being homeless after leaving an abusive marriage. She and her two children were living in their car when God led Kristy to the Dream Center. Kristy knew she was in a safe and blessed place where she and her children found support and healing. When Kristy was back on her feet, she became a Dream Center employee and today she is the Dream Center Housing Director. Her story began 21 years ago and her committment to the Dream Center and the homeless population in Central Illinois was apperant to all us in attendance.
Impact members asked dozen of questions and Kristy's honest answers were enlightening and educational. The discussion was conculded after the alotted hour, but left members wanting more. Sixteen members stayed for a tour, led by Michelle Luther, Dream Center Office Manager.
Comments
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02/13/2023 2:23pm I attended this event and I'm so glad I did. I found it extremely interesting to hear a first hand account from Kristy. She was a great speaker and taught me much about the homeless situation in Central Illinois. I was alarmed about how little I actually knew about homelessness. I learned the Dream Center turns no one away. I also learned their Supportive Housing model not only provides a clean and safe place to sleep, but an environment of encouragement and hope. I would have stayed another hour because the discussion was that good. I stayed for the tour, after the discussion, because I had not been on a Dream Center tour for many years. I was pleased to see the improvements under Andy King's leadership and the devotion from other staff members we met during the tour. In conclusion, I would highly recommend the Beyond Giving Educational Events to other Impact Central Illinois members. It's a great way to learn; interact with our Community Partners; and see my fellow Impact members. |
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02/13/2023 7:53pm This wasn't your typical lunch and learn. Kristy told her personal story and provided general information on homelessness by fielding questions from the ICI members. I really enjoyed how every question was completely different allowing members to have their individual questions answered. The event was a great way to learn more about social issues impacting the Tri-county area. Excited for the next one on March 7th - learning about addictions. |