YOUR VENDOR: $ 1 WWW.OSAPHILLY.ORG MARCH 2018 PHILADELPHIA’S STREET PAPER CREATING JOBS; ADVOCATING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE ENTERPRISESSOCIAL INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS TO EMPLOYING THE HOMELESSPAGE 4
2 One Step Away ● MARCH 2018 ● OSAphilly.org OUR 2018 GOALSEVENTS CALENDAR YOU CAN HELP US ACHIEVE Our 2018 Goals 1 CREATE JOBS FOR INDIVIDUALS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS AND POVERTY. 2 PROVIDE OUTREACH AND MENTORS FOR PEOPLE LIVING ON THE STREETS AND IN SHELTERS. PROMOTE3VENDORS WITHIN ONE STEP AWAY AS TEAM LEADERS, VENDOR TRAINERS, AND REPRESENTATIVES.COMMUNITY 4 CREATE ADVANCEMENTECONOMICAND OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH FOR OUR VENDORS AS THEY MOVE BEYOND HOMELESSNESS. 5 PUBLISH A MONTHLY PAPER, FOCUSED ON SOLUTIONS BASED JOURNALISM, ADVOCATING FOR THOSE WITHOUT A VOICE. ESTABLISH6A DIGITAL PRESENCE, TO CONNECT WITH YOU AND EXPAND OUR AUDIENCES. 7 DEVELOP PARTNERSHIPS,COMMUNITY AND EXPAND TO ALL NEIGHBORHOODS.PHILADELPHIA MARCH FRANKLIN SQUARE GRAND OPENING EAST PASSYUNKWEEKRESTAURANT WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS PHILADELPHIA ST. PATRICK’S DAY EARTHPHILLYPARADEWINEWEEKHOUR8:30-9:30 pm PALM WALKOUTAFRICANGOODSUNDAYFRIDAYPASSOVERAMERICANHISTORYANDCULTURESHOWCASE@PACONVENTIONCENTERHOLIENOUGH!NATIONALSCHOOLFORACTIONAGAINSTGUNVIOLENCE@1 0 am ST. PATRICK’S DAY WINTER FOUNTAINS EXHIBITION @ THE BEN FRANKLIN PARKWAY 10 YEARS OF INTERFAITH BOLD AND RADICAL6:30-10:3ORGANIZING,0 pm @ C HURCH OF THE ADVOCATE PHILADELPHIA HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY FLOWER SHOW @ PA CONVENTION CENTER WORLD WATER DAY22141111-92317183-1122-292425303131-1 SAVE THE DATE ONE STEP AWAY’S CELEBRATIONCHAMPIONS MAY 10, 6-9 pm THE PYRAMID CLUB PHILADELPHIA TICKETS @CHECKOSAPHILLY.ORGOUTOUR NEW NEIGHBORHOOD ZONES VENDOR SPOTLIGHT LORENZO CHALMERS
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AM -1PM OUR AFFILIATIONS MAKE YOUR TAX-DEDUCTIBLE DONATION TODAY! ONLINE: OSAPHILLY.ORG MAIL: ONE STEP AWAY, P.O. BOX 63703, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19147 $20 One Step Away is a member of the International Network of Street Papers (INSP) helping 27,000 vendors earn an income each year: www.insp.ngo. We are a program of Resources for Human Development Inc. (RHD), a national human services nonprofit: www.rhd.org. 1 INCOME 2 COMMUNITY 3 ADVOCACYWORKWEHOW One Step Away creates jobs for individuals who are experiencing homelessness or poverty. Vendors complete training and receive their first 20 papers for free. After that, they purchase papers for 25 cents each. One Step Away vendors distribute the papers for $1, keeping what they make. This allows them to earn income, gain self-sufficiency and employable skills, while engaging with the community. The monthly newspapers provide a platform for vendors to write about personal experiences, share insights, and advocate for social justice. As a nonprofit organization, One Step Away relies largely on donations to fund our program.
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NAME: PHONE:EMAIL:ADDRESS: DOES STEP MEAN TOONLINE:YOU?
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WWW.OSAPHILLY.ORG MAIL: ONE STEP AWAY P.O. BOX PHILADELPHIA,63703 PA 19147
JOBS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDIVIDUALS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS AND POVERTY.
N. BROAD
As a nonprofit organization, 501(c)3, One Step Away relies on donations to fund our program. One Step Away is a program of the human services nonprofit Resources for Human Development, a registered 501(c)(3). All donations are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law. The official registration and financial information of Resources for Human Development may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free, within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
BASEMENT BROAD
OUR MISSION : TO CREATE
I
$50 $250$150 $500 $ WHAT
EMAIL: OSA@RHD.ORG SOCIAL: @OSAPHILLY STREET CHURCH & ARCH STREETS (55 STREET) M, W, F 1 0
TO GIVE A VOICE AND A PLATFORM FOR PEOPLE TO BE HEARD. SUPPORT ONE STEP
OPEN:
MORE THAN A PAPER
To celebrate #VendorWeek 2018, The Big Issue Australia took an in depth look at the ways street papers around the world are creating extra employment opportunities for the people who need them most. And what better way to learn about them than from the people who are employed by and benefit from them. Social enterprises featured in the article come from these International Network of Street Paper (INSP) members: The Big Issue Australia, =Oslo, The Curbside Chronicle, Shedia and L’Itinéraire. BY THE BIG ISSUE AUSTRALIA, INSP.NGO
4 One Step Away ● MARCH 2018 ● OSAphilly.org
HOMELESSTHEEMPLOYINGSOLUTIONSINNOVATIVETO
THE WOMEN’S SUBSCRIPTION ENTERPRISE, THE BIG ISSUE AUSTRALIA
“People might think it’s just a magazine that they get sent every fortnight, but the impact they actually have on an individual is something that individual will carry throughout their lives. It’s not just the money, it’s the interaction with colleagues and managers — not just the magazines but the thirdparty work and dealing with the businesses that help support the WSE. It’s reconnected me to my community.
ENTERPRISESSOCIAL
Jodi tells us more: “I’ve been here since the beginning. The first shift was exciting. It was a little overwhelming, because we had people from the companies that support WSE there. But afterwards I felt like I’d achieved something. It was a good feeling at the end of the day, and you know that whoever receives their subscription is going to get a perfect magazine.
“There is a friendship and we all care for each other, and if one of us isn’t there, then we all are worried about her.
“The good thing about Perth is that there are so many organizations that are helping us.”
But, The Big Issue organization is one. It’s Australia’s longest-standing and most successful social enterprise. In fact, The Big Issue is made up of four social enterprises. A social enterprise is a not-for-profit program that reinvests into the community it is trying to help. For The Big Issue, that means creating ongoing employment for marginalized people.
WOMEN’S SUBSCRIPTION ENTERPRISE,
A SOCIAL ENTERPRISE IS A NOT-FOR-PROFIT PROGRAM THAT REINVESTS INTO THE COMMUNITY IT IS TRYING TO HELP. FOR THE BIG ISSUE, THAT MEANS CREATING ONGOING EMPLOYMENT FOR MARGINALIZED PEOPLE.
WHAT EVEN IS A SOCIAL ENTERPRISE?
When you buy The Big Issue from a street vendor, half the magazine’s sale price goes into the pocket of a person who needs it. The vendor buys the magazine for $3.50 and sells it for $7, earning an income. The other half goes back into our organization, so that we can support the vendors and produce a magazine for those people to keep selling. Social enterprise. When you take out a magazine subscription of The Big Issue, your money employs marginalized women to pack and distribute the magazines to subscribers. Social enterprise. When you bring a school group to The Big Issue Classroom to learn about homelessness and the factors that can lead to marginalization, it also pays for a person who has experienced homelessness to come and share their story with students. Social enterprise. When university students compete in The Big Idea to develop their own social enterprise ideas, the program not only helps develop a new generation of social entrepreneurs, it also creates work opportunities for The Big Issue speakers. Social enterprise.
“There are lots of women from non-English speaking backgrounds, too. It has opened my mind up to the different religions and the unrealistic way the media portrays the Muslim religion.
The Women’s Subscription Enterprise (WSE) was created in 2010 to provide job opportunities and give support to women who have faced homelessness, trauma or disadvantage. The women package copies of The Big Issue Australia magazine for distribution to subscribers every two weeks, and receive access to training, mentoring and support. The WSE is also contracted for social procurement work, packing and distributing content for other organizations around the country.
“It’s daunting to get back in the workforce after being out for a while. I was in an abusive relationship, and out of work for five years. You are told to sell yourself, but it’s hard when they ask you why you were out of work.
And so, it is for more than 110 street papers around the world that are a part of the International Network of Street Papers (INSP). All of those magazines are social enterprises that work in the same or similar way to The Big Issue. And a lot of those organizations also have other elements of the business that reinvest into their community, such as coffee carts, vendor-led city tours or Valentine’s Day flower deliveries. Beyond the magazines, we’re taking a look at some of these other enterprises that our friends all over the world have created to help people who have experienced homelessness, unemployment or disadvantage.
THE BIG ISSUE AUSTRALIA
It’s one of those terms that gets bandied around a lot. You could be forgiven for thinking it’s just an unintelligible buzzword, held up as the great hope to bridge the community, corporate and government sectors.
“For me, the biggest benefit is working with other women who have had similar experiences as myself. We all seem to understand each other and we all support each other, we don’t judge. That’s helped with my confidence levels.
OSAphilly.org ● MARCH 2018 ● One Step Away 5
“My biggest hope would be to use the skills I’ve learned to get into permanent full-time employment and be able to get a private rental.
Diane tells us more: “When I sell the magazine, I’m in contact with customers. When I work in the cafe, I’m in contact with my colleagues (vendors) who are also my friends. I prefer working with my gang in the kitchen.
“Curbside has been a huge help to get away from the negativity of being on the streets.
Steven tells us more: “It’s fun to get to sell another product in addition to the magazine; it’s a fun way to spread love in our community. People seem to really enjoy purchasing our bouquets and sharing them with their loved ones. They’re beautiful.
L’ITINÉRAIRE,
Around Valentine’s Day, the vendors of Curbside Chronicle street magazine partner with a local florist to put together floral arrangements. The flowers are trimmed, grouped and wrapped by vendors, and then sold on the streets of Oklahoma City.
“Over the Christmas break of my senior year, I got in a car wreck. I ended up with a shattered hip. From there, things really changed for me. I was a really active person and I planned on joining the military. They told me that my hip disqualified me, so that really threw everything off for me.
“Thanks to our cook, Mister Paul (a volunteer who has been working for the last 10 years), I learned new recipes. I am also responsible for the cash register, although I would like to improve my skills here. I still have a bit of difficulty calculating mentally the change I have to return (chuckle)! I’m really happy to have learned new skills!
“I was homeless for 13 years. It was just like a blanket discrimination. Being associated with the homeless population has a really negative impact. It can get discouraging, not everyone is nice. Now that I’m back in housing, I finally feel like I’m settling into a routine. Having received housing and having a way of making money, I feel like things are on the up.
“I feel like Curbside supports the exact things I was worried about, but I also feel like I’m helping other people. For the most part, it’s been great. I really enjoy dealing with people and spreading the message of hope.
“I’ve always loved talking to people and it’s been really uplifting. It’s been really positive for me, and I haven’t had problems paying my bills each month. If you put in the time throughout the month, you don’t really have to worry. After all these years, it’s nice to see things head in a positive direction. It’s been a real gift, especially after all of the time and effort, to see all of my possibilities now.”
“The cafe really changed my life! I meet a cafe full of people and I get to know them more and more. People like me a lot, and that feels really good. I love Canada in general, and Québec in particular because people are friendly and uncomplicated.” CAFÉ QUÉBEC
“I really enjoy putting the flowers together. It’s very hands-on, and I like to work with my hands. Plus, they smell really good all day while we are out selling them. I like selling the magazine too, but people really look forward to our flowers every year, so that’s cool.
“Everybody loves my soups, especially my cream of vegetable. I’m also proud to have learned how to bake good cookies.
This cafeteria in Québec offers low-cost meals to vendors of L’Itinéraire street paper and other people in need. It also offers frozen meals that vendors can take home, and serves a free community meal once a month. Disadvantaged people work in the kitchen alongside volunteers, learning new skills and giving back to their community.
VALENTINE’S DAY FLOWER SERVICE THE CURBSIDE CHRONICLE, USA L’ITINÉRAIRE
6 One Step Away ● MARCH 2018 ● OSAphilly.org
“I’d like to get into more permanent employment. As long as I can get my financial obligations taken care of and pay child support to take care of my daughter, I don’t really care what kind of work I get.
Shedia’s Upcycling program uses paper from the leftover copies of their street paper to make beautiful, environmentally friendly objects to sell – from bags to rings to artwork. Workshops are held to teach people the skills of Upcycling and to embrace their artistic side. This year, a gallery/workshop space called Shediart will be opened to help the artists sell their wares.
“For the future, I hope to remain drug free, become debt free and learn even more coffee-making skills.”
“Through Upcycling I confirmed my idea that when you have patience and persistence you can achieve everything. Art, in all forms, needs hard work and dedication. It can be difficult and tiresome to transform paper into useful objects and it needs much time.
=KAFFE =OSLO, NORWAY
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Christer tells us more: “Working in =Kaffe is very different from selling the magazine. It’s much more like a regular job with regular hours and demands. It gives a great sense of achievement.
“The most special thing in Greece is the will of people, and their pride.
=Kaffe is a coffee shop started by the street paper =Oslo. It operates just like all the other coffee shops in the city (on average Norwegians drink 3.6 cups of coffee a day), but the employees have all had experiences of homelessness, addiction or poverty. Most of the staff are former or current vendors of =Oslo.
“I have learned to make hearts in the milk foam in cappuccinos, haha. And that it feels good to show up at work early in the morning, earn your wages and pay your tax. I didn’t know that.
UPCYCLING SHEDIA, GREECE
“Norway is ranked as the happiest country and the best country to live in the world, but still Oslo is considered the heroin capital of Europe. Go figure.
Photo Credits (p. 4): Jodi working at the Women's Subscruption Enterprise at The Big Issue Australia Credit: Ross Swanborough. (p. 6) Steven Gage selling bouquets at a night market in Oklahoma Cityís Plaza District. Photo credit: Ranya OíConnor; Text credit: Steven Gage. Diane working at the L’ItinÈraire CafÈ Credit: Mario Alberto Reyes Zamora. (p. 7) Vanessa working at Shedia’s upcycling project and examples of work at the Shediart gallery and workshop space Credit: Yannis Zindrilis. Christer working at =Kaffe Credit: Even Skyrud.
Vanessa tells us more: “All the objects are made with a lot of fantasy and delight. Upcycling is very much different than selling the street paper. It is a more internal procedure and it combines many different skills.
“The job has brought me closer to what I really dream of: a quiet, normal life.
“The most important thing for me is that I cooperate with other people. We are all very different, but we work in a small room as a team and we have very good results because we all love what we do, and we love Shedia.
“The biggest challenge for me is to become faster, make more beautiful things and have more tolerance.
“I would like to see Upcycling being loved by the people, like Shedia, and for everybody to understand that Upcycling is something creative that supports us to improve our lives.”
2. Be flexible with schedules.
IN ON WHAT
And according to a recent American Civil Liberties Union report, 75 percent of formerly incarcerated people struggle with employment a year after release. In a city with an estimated population of 1.5 million, that means at least 187,500 Philadelphians in this group could be struggling with employment.
By Danielle Corcione One in every six Philadelphians has been incarcerated.
“For example, a returning citizen needs to be [held] accountable every time they’re out of their facility or out of their house,” Abramowitz, who served three years in federal prison, from 2012 to 2015. “When you come home, that accountability means you have to check in by phone. That means you have be accessible. When you’re at work, oftentimes, [law enforcement is] going to be calling that work site, asking if Mr. Abramowitz is working that day.”
Baker Industries Philly Employees pictured: (Photo via facebook.com/BakerInd) FROM BAKER INDUSTRIES, LEARNING CENTER, AND REENTRY THINK TANK WEIGHWORKS.INPARTNERSHIP
Sometimes, formerly incarcerated people are required to report for parole and probation meetings. While parole and probation offices are relatively flexible with meeting during lunch breaks or during non-work hours, these meetings could potentially interfere with work schedules, Abramowitz said. However, the bigger issue involves those enrolled in mandatory drug and alcohol treatment: If formerly incarcerated people fail to show up to these treatment meetings, they can be charged with violating their terms of release, he said. And of course, if a formerly incarcerated person violates these agreements, it puts their societal reintegration — including their jobs — on the line.
PROJECT, AND ONE
Abramowitz said when he first began working at the Community Learning Center after his time at U.S. Penitentiary, Canaan, his boss received a phone call every weekday morning at 10 o’clock asking if Abramowitz was there that day.
EXPERTS
1. Understand your responsibilities.
COMMUNITY
Jeffrey Abramowitz, former director of student services and workforce development at Community Learning Center, stressed there are expectations and responsibilities of employers who hire formerly incarcerated people. One of those responsibilities is being in touch with law enforcement about an employee’s whereabouts.
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Hiring formerly incarcerated people shouldn’t only involve reaping the monetary benefits, though: It’s also about giving individuals with unique perspectives and experiences — who, yes, may have committed crimes, but also paid penance for those crimes — a second chance at success. But it requires special accommodations, too. Reps from Community Learning Center, Reentry Think Tank and Baker Industries shared their own best practices for how employers can support formerly incarcerated employees in their organizations.
There are several financial incentives for Philadelphia businesses to hire formerly incarcerated people. Employers can claim up $10,000 in tax credits per year for up to three years for a qualifying hire through the Philadelphia Reentry Employment ProgramAdditionally,(PREP).the
Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry administers two other funding opportunities: The Federal Bonding Program funded through the U.S. Department of Labor provides “fidelity insurance bonds to protect employers from any losses from theft, forgery, larceny and embezzlement.” Additionally, the Work Opportunity Tax Credit — which also applies to veterans and other groups — offers employers up to 40 percent of first year wages.
8 One Step Away ● MARCH 2018 ● OSAphilly.org
On March 14, 2016, an updated amendment of the Fair Criminal Records Screening Standards Ordinance — otherwise known as “Ban the Box” legislation — went into effect in Philadelphia. Ever since, it has been illegal for every employer in town to ask job applicants to disclose their criminal convictions older than seven years (though the legislation allows for background checks to be conducted after offering a job to the applicant).
FOUR
3. Hire staff to specifically support formerly incarcerated employees. Baker Industries has employed and accommodated people with disabilities since it was founded in 1980. The company has since expanded to include formerly SMART PRACTICES FOR HIRING FORMERLY INCARCERATED PHILADELPHIANS
WITH GENEROCITY, BAKER INDUSTRIES, LEARNING CENTER, THE REENTRY STEP
COMMUNITY
Editor’s note: Department of Commerce Communications Director Lauren Cox submitted another tax credit opportunity after we published:
The Fair Chance Hiring Initiative is a pilot program that provides reimbursements to businesses who hire formerly incarcerated individuals. The Fair Chance Hiring Initiative was created to provide a more efficient alternative to the current Philadelphia ReEntry Program (PREP) Tax Credit, and if successful this program will be proposed as a permanent replacement for PREP in the future. Employers can apply for reimbursements through the Fair Chance Hiring Initiative when they hire Philadelphia residents who have been released from incarceration within the last five years. To qualify, the employee must work a minimum of 21 hours per week and be paid at least $12.10 per hour, the City’s standard for a living wage. All employees must be approved by the Mayor’s Office of Reintegration Services for Ex-Offenders (RISE).
Reentry Think Tank cofounder Mark Strandquist believes those with direct experience are the authorities on criminal justice. That means those who have been formerly incarcerated are the experts on counseling employers best accommodating formerly incarcerated people in their organizations. Alongside a partnership with the Philadelphia Reentry Coalition, this ethos inspired the idea to offer collaborative consulting services to organizations wanting to hire formerly incarcerated people. For example, Think Tank fellows helped improve the pre-interview screening process at the Defender Association of Philadelphia, an organization that provides legal support to those who have been formerly incarcerated.
Editor’s note: Jeff Abramowitz no longer works at Community Learning Center. (2/5, 12:55 p.m.)
Those hiring formerly incarcerated people should take note at Baker’s fine print, too, Tiewater said. Whenever an employee is receiving this support, whether it’s in a group or one-on-one counseling as well as job training, they are still being compensated for being at work.
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“Think Tank fellows were interviewing clients before they met with their lawyers,” Strandquist said. “And they were greeting clients as they came in, explaining the process as a peer-led prototype,” added cofounder Courtney Bowles.
4. Hire third-party consulting and training.
One way was developing the Résumé for Freedom, an alternative résumé to show lawyers prior to meeting face-to-face clients. Another way was being physically present in the waiting room to reduce tensions clients may have prior to meeting with their lawyers.
[][][][]RETURNING[]EX-OFFENDERCITIZENFORMERLYINCARCERATEDEMPLOYED SEARCHING FOR WORK O FFERING A HAND UP NOT A HANDOUT Become a One Step Away vendor in 3 easy steps: 1. Sign up 2. Attend vendor orientation 3. Get 20 free papers and start working! Vendor Site Hours: Monday, Wednesday,10AM–1PMFriday Arch Street United Methodist Church 55 N. Broad Street (Broad and Arch)
incarcerated people as well as those who have been homeless and/or struggled with substance abuse.
“We are a trauma-informed organization, which means that the first priority is that everyone feels safe and accepted and cared for,” explained Beth Tiewater, director of projects and resources. “On staff, at both locations, we have a crisis counselor and recovery coach. They do workshops and small groups things, but their primary focus is one-on-one sessions with participants to maintain recovery.”
In addition to workforce development programming, these staff members can help connect employees to further resources and counseling if necessary.
“Sometimes, the crisis counselor is able to just help someone get things in focus and come up with a strategy that gets them through the day,” she added. “It’s a gentle way of teaching and modeling new ways of navigating through old problems.”
KEVIN WEISCHER & CYNDI MACALUSO BRIAN ALBATERJOSEPH LAURIE
CYNDI MACALUSO
LAURIE SCHEFF: “How invisible people can be to so many others!”
Lawyer, Willig, Williams & Davidson. John Rodgers, Principal & Co-founder, and Jeremy Sanchez, Co-founder at The 215 Guys. Katerina Pappas, Health Coach & Writer. Glenn Holsten, Awardwinning documentary director and producer of Hollywood Beauty Saloon, OC Recovery Diaries. Deb Woodell, Reporter, The Daily News, philly.com. After distributing papers on the streets for one hour, we asked the Guest Vendors and Vendors: WHAT DID YOU DISCOVER TODAY THAT YOU MIGHT NOT HAVE ON YOUR OWN?
JOSEPH ALBATER: “No matter what type of job the Guest Vendors have, there are nice people out there who really care.”
LAURIE SCHEFF BRIAN KINCAID WOODELLDEB
10 One Step Away ● MARCH 2018 ● OSAphilly.org BIG SELL OFF Every year, One Step Away joins street papers across the globe for International #VendorWeek. The week is dedicated to supporting and celebrating the 21,000 street vendors who earn a living at 110 street papers in 34 countries. Part of the week includes our #BigSell, an event that invites community members and leaders to join us as Guest Vendors and distribute the paper on the streets alongside One Step AwayVendors. This year eleven Guest Vendors hit the streets with us. THANK YOU TO OUR 2018 GUEST VENDORS: (Pictured clockwise from top left, Photos courtesy of Development.AnalystandJimfromServicesandVP/SeniorSeniorTGoldmanphotography.com)LaurieScheff,VicePresident,Consultant;BrianKincaid:RiskControlSpecialist;CyndiMacaluso:SeniorClientManager–HumanCapitalWillisTowersWatson.Piasecki,RegionalDirector,AlexandraRuch,OutcomesforResourcesforHumanLouisePongracz,
KEVIN WEIHSNER: “That the Guest Vendors understand just how hard it is to sell papers.”
LORENZO CHALMERS: “ I got to teach, as well as learn, how someone else familiarizes themselves with the paper. Everyone is their own individual.”
GLENN HOLSTEN & LORENZO BRIAN
CALDWELLZACHARYBELCHER KATERINA PAPPAS JEREMYRODGERSJOHNSANCHEZ
LOUISE PONGRACZ: “How you are instantly invisible.”
LOUISE PONGRACZDAVID & ALEXANDRAJIM & MICHAEL
DEB WOODELL: “How cold-hearted some people can be.”
OSAphilly.org ● MARCH 2018 ● One Step Away 11 GUEST VENDORS
JOHN RODGERS: “How people who said they would come back, did — that was nice. But I realized a lot of people who gave to us, didn’t have much, and people who looked well-off, didn’t even look at us. At least say ‘Hi’.”
GLENN HOLSTEN: “Meeting Lorenzo and learning from Lorenzo.”
CYNDI MACALUSO: “My highlight of the day was getting to know Kevin — the struggles he went through — how he is making his life better one day at a time. I learned, this is a very hard job. You feel invisible and it makes me really think about my day to day, and knowing what they go through — I will never look away again.”
JEREMY SANCHEZ: “I was amazed at how many people who could help, didn’t. Like, I know you have money and can help.”
ALEXANDRA RUCH: “A different take into the homeless community.”
KATERINA PAPPAS: “People showed interest and wanted to support the cause.”
JIM PIASECKI: “How at 6’3” and speaking I can still be invisible. That the vendors keep up no matter what.”
“The more buy-in they get to live independently in the community, the more successful they are.”
“In the beginning there was some apprehension,” states Yvette Odom, Mainstream’s Supervisor, who oversees the Uganda Dress Project, “a few group members asked: ‘How can I make something for someone else?’.” The first group was presented an array of pillowcases and ribbon to create their dresses. Rhonda, a participant at RHD’s Mainstream, asked: “Do you think I could be good enough to make a dress?”
RHD’s Mainstream program provides permanent supportive independent housing. The 20-unit apartment complex in West Philly, serves men and women with mental illness and who were formerly homelessness. “Mainstream is a close-knit community,” states Unit Director Ann Ryan, “so we work hard for them to do activities together, foster relationships in the community, and to give back.” Every Wednesday, the co-ed recovery group meets to determine upcoming activity plans. “Our residents are caring and loving individuals who want to give back to the community, and this is their way to give back,” continues Ann Ryan. In 2016, the group discussed the activity idea of sewing pillow case dresses for girls in Uganda. RHD’s Mainstream choose Uganda Mission Project of Canaan Family Life Center Program as their volunteer project site. The Uganda Mission Project works to uplift and encourage the Ugandan people along their journey towards independence through love, compassion, and partnership. They accomplish this by sharing the word and supporting leaders in their efforts to raise the quality of life for their people through academic and life skills, education, and water projects. RHD’s Mainstream participants were drawn to the project. “I think it is a beautiful thing,” says Diane. Being able to help the children of Uganda especially made an impact on the Mainstream community, as Ann Ryan states, “They love this project. It helps with self-esteem, helps them feel like they’re giving back, and supporting those in need.”
Ann Ryan, Director RHD’s Mainstream Supportive Housing Program
Latonia, followed up her question, asking, “I do not know how to sew, could you teach me?”Tointroduce the project, the group made personal pillows and wind doorstops. As the group achieved success with each project, members were prepared to create their pillow case dresses for the young children in Uganda. Upon completion of the dresses, members asked if they could see the actual children receiving the pillowcase dresses.
RHD’S MAINSTREAM FORMERLY HOMELESS RESIDENTS MAKE DRESSES FOR UGANDA
On January 10, 2018, RHD Mainstream invited Gail Hoffman, Director the Uganda Mission, to present to the residents. Every year, Gail brings pillowcase dresses to Uganda and gives them out to those in need. She shared stories and pictures from her trip with Mainstream’s residents. Gail’s presentation allowed Mainstream participants to learn about another country and what was happening there, as well as the impact their pillowcases had on the girls inResidentsUganda. immediately felt a sense of pride in giving back, as Alan stated, “I like doing this for the girls.” More residents chimed in, stated Yvette, commenting: “It is so nice to see the little girls in the pillow case dresses”, “they look very happy”, “I am so glad we had the chance to make them for the girls” – and most importantly, “Can we make more next year?”. Due to popular demand, RHD’s Mainstream will once again make pillowcase dresses for girls in Uganda. Director Ann Ryan experiences first-hand the difference the volunteer projects have on RHD’s Mainstream’s residents:
“I see this, folks do better when they’re involved in their community, see the joy it brings them.” She and her team actively engage residents on volunteer projects throughout the year, in both Philadelphia and abroad. The volunteer projects bring joy to the residents, but even more, they add to their success: It makes residents take pride in their community. Volunteer projects allow residents to integrate into the community and foster relationships. As Ann passionately explains, “volunteer, which increase their success, and longevity in maintaining housing — reducing recidivism.
To learn more about the Uganda Mission visit www.ugandamissionproject.org.
To learn more about Resources for Human Development, Mainstream, and their creative approaches to homelessness visit www.rhd.org.
TOGETHER,COMMUNITY,IS“MAINSTREAMACLOSE-KNITSOWEWORKHARDFORTHEMTODOACTIVITIESFOSTERRELATIONSHIPSINTHECOMMUNITY,ANDTOGIVEBACK.”
12 One Step Away ● MARCH 2018 ● OSAphilly.org NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT — GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
OSAphilly.org ● MARCH 2018 ● One Step Away 13
NATIONEAGLES’
With just a few seconds left on the clock, Coach Pederson made the ballsy decision to send in newly signed kicker Jake Elliot to attempt an insane 61-yard field goal. And it actually worked! I believe it was that gutsy play calling all year long that inspired confidence in the players and made everyone work that much harder to achieve the ultimate goal: Super Bowl Champions.
By: Charles Sarazin Rocky. Ben Franklin. Cheesesteaks. The Liberty Bell. These are all things for which the City of Philadelphia is famous. One of the things this city has not been known for is a Super Bowl title. Until now. Well folks, it happened. The Philadelphia Eagles have finally won a Super Bowl! After many years of heartache and frustration the coveted Lombardi trophy is finally ours. These are words I have been waiting to say for almost my entire life. And to be honest, there were times I didn't think it was ever going to happen. I literally thought this was a dream that I would never see. The 2017 Philadelphia Eagles took us on quite a remarkable journey. Coming into the season we were all just hoping to get back to the playoffs after a three-year absence. I don't think anybody predicted the season would end with us being Super Bowl Champions, but it did; and I'm ecstatic that I was able to experience every moment of this glorious ride from the kickoff on opening day to the final seconds of Super Bowl LII.
As the season went on, the Eagles went on a winning streak with star quarterback Carson Wentz lighting up the scoreboard with multiple TD passes to a group of receivers— that included Zach Ertz, Alshon Jeffery, and a resurgent Nelson Agholor—crushing their opponents in the process. One thing I really liked about this team was that everybody had the same mindset and played as a team. There were no selfish attitudes that have been known to tear teams apart in the past. You had veteran players like LeGarrette Blount and Chris Long and Malcolm Jenkins leading the way on the offensive and defensive side of the ball, and newcomers such as Jay Ajayi and Corey Clement quickly making their presence known. We unfortunately lost longtime players such as Darren Sproles and Jason Peters to injury, but younger players quickly stepped up and picked up the slack. We even beat the snot out of the hated Cowboys, which is always the highlight of any Eagles season—even in years that we hadn't done well.
I sincerely believe the turning point of the season came in week three, our first home game against the visiting Giants. At that point we had 1 win and 1 loss, not really sure which direction we were headed. I remember we had quite a lead in the game and we let the Giants come back and tie the game in the 4th quarter. We all felt the frustration from years past creeping back in. I remember saying to a friend of mine, "If we lose this game I'm going to be embarrassed to walk outside."
BRIDESMAID NO MORE
It certainly was a privilege and an honor to have witnessed it and to have watched what will be a part of Philadelphia history forever.
MURAL BY @MEGSALIGNMANSTUDIO
CHARLES SARAZIN Charles is a One Step Away vendor and writer. He likes to use his writing to entertain his readers, and provide a refreshing distraction from current events.
Then came the Rams the following week. That game was going well until the unthinkable happened: MVP candidate Carson Wentz went down with a torn ACL—the 3 letters you never want to hear in football. How he was able to throw that touchdown pass after the injury occurred is beyond comprehension. It just goes to show how dedicated he is to winning. Now our playoff hopes were in the hands of backup QB Nick Foles. Most teams have fallen apart after losing their star player, but the Eagles knew that was definitely not an option. They just had to play that much harder and to everyone's surprise, they accomplished great things. At this point everyone knew the road to glory was only going to get more bumpy heading into the playoffs. The first game against the Falcons was a struggle, but we all hung in there and never gave up. For the record, it was our first win in the postseason in nine years. The next game against the Vikings was expected to be another nail-biter, but something magical happened. As you all know, the Eagles annihilated them and were going to the Super Bowl. It's as if everything and everyone had finally gelled together at the same time, especially when it was most needed. Nick was certainly not playing like a backup QB anymore. He was literally on a tear playing under Coach Pederson's guidance. Going into the game, the Eagles already knew that the winner of this game would be playing the hated New England Patriots in the big game and used that as extra motivation. Oh, did I also mention that the so-called experts said the Eagles wouldn't even win a playoff game without Wentz? Thus, the term "Underdogs" became a part of the Eagles’ team identity. After an excruciating two-week waiting period, it was finally time to play on the World’s Biggest Stage. The Super Bowl was finally here. Tom Brady and the New England Patriots stood between us and the Lombardi trophy, and we weren't going to be denied. Surrounded by some of the best friends and the most dedicated fans one could ever ask for—and of course the usual game-day festivities—I experienced a night I'll never forget. What followed after kickoff was one of the most thrilling games I had ever witnessed. We had all come too far to turn back now. Just making it to the Super Bowl was not going to be acceptable. As any Philly fan knows all too well, we'd been there twice before and came up short. We gave the Patriots hell from the get-go but we all knew they weren't going away without a fight. I truly do believe the gutsy play call of the "Philly Special"—a trick play that saw tight end Trey Burton throwing a 1 yard TD pass to QB Foles, who was also named Super Bowl MVP, on 4th down—made the difference in that game. There were moments that made us nervous, but the Eagles, players and fans alike, stayed focused and stuck together and kept fighting and scoring on spectacular TD throws from Nick Foles until the final seconds ticked off the clock. The Lombardi trophy that had eluded us for so many years was finally ours. We defeated the evil empire and won the Super Bowl! Nothing else mattered that night. It was like all the years of frustration and disappointment and harassment from fans of other teams for never having won a Super Bowl, just quickly evaporated. We were kings of the world! The celebration that followed in Philly that night was like nothing I had ever experienced before. Four days later, saw the victory parade down Broad Street to the Art Museum, followed by speeches by several members of the Eagles staff as well as the heartfelt speech delivered by Center Jason Kelce. You know, "No one likes us and we don't care!" and "The hungry dogs are the fastest dogs!" I must say that entire ceremony is something else I had never experienced before. I was just in awe at the amount of people on the streets as well as on rooftops, who had ventured out to witness history in the making. Getting through that day certainly wasn't easy but it was definitely well worth it. I'm just glad I was there to take it all in. There's no telling if we'll ever experience this ever again, but I'm definitely going to savor this feeling for now. Some people say that Eagles football is just a game. Any fan of Philadelphia sports knows it's not "just a game." In my case, as well as many others I'm sure, it's a chance for family and/ or friends to gather together once a week to enjoy each other's company as well as the festivities, escape their everyday troubles and cheer on their team, win or lose. Although winning is much more preferred, as I'm sure you all know. As soon as the victory parade ended that day, I then just realized that our season was now officially over. The entire experience from the beginning of the playoffs until the end of the parade was something I'll never forget. It was as if the holidays had been extended just for the folks in Philly. It was like Christmas, New Years, Mardi Gras, Cinco de Mayo, and St. Patty’s Day all rolled up into one. Especially the day of the Super Bowl all the way to the end of the parade. As you all saw, Jason Kelce was certainly dressed for the occasion! As for the 2017 Philadelphia Eagles as well as the multitude of dedicated fans, I’ll see you in September!
Then came the loss to Seattle. Standing head and shoulders above the rest of the league with an 11-1 record, deep down inside we all knew a second loss was inevitable. At this point we weren't used to losing, and knew it was going to sting. In hindsight the loss proved to be a necessary evil. It brought everybody, fans and players alike, back down to earth and reminded us all that the team was far from perfect, and there was still a lot of work to be done. I believe the players used the lousy feeling that comes with a loss as motivation and never wanted to feel it again.
Good day, Charles, casrzn8005@yahoo.com
14 One Step Away ● MARCH 2018 ● OSAphilly.org FLY EAGLES FLY
• The Eagles took part in the first televised NFL game on October 22, 1939.
After owner Jeffrey Lurie fired the disappointing Chip Kelly as coach, he stated he was looking for someone with emotional intelligence. This is defined as the capacity to be aware of and control one’s emotions and handle one’s interpersonal relationships judiciously and with empathy. It is to be self-aware and visible. It appears Doug Pederson fits this description. At first, he publicly criticized some players’ performance, but when chided, stopped doing so.
By: Keith Barbour Out of the clear blue skies, The EAGLES fly by, And swoop down and scoop up the Super Bowl crown, Taking football to astounding heights, Because Jay Ajayu can run all night, And although four quarters are very long, Chris Long is very strong, And Alshon Jeffery is ready to get it on, Because everybody thought it was over when Carson Wentz was gone!!!
• The Eagles have worn midnight green since 1996, although many hope for a return to kelly green—they have their own left-facing logo.
Sadly, on December 10, 2017, when quarterback Wentz was injured, my dad passed away. He was in hospice and close to 90, but I missed him more than I could have imagined. Not because he missed the Eagles winning the Super Bowl, but because he was so loving, funny, and kind. It has been said if the choice is between being right or kind, choose kind. That is the choice Dad made every time.
Finally, I love the Muppets, and Kermit the Frog in particular. Indeed, I enjoy imitating the frog. Maybe someday, I’ll demonstrate for you. I like singing his song, “It’s Not Easy Being Green” (also sung by one of my heroes, Frank Sinatra). But on this day, it is easy to be green because the birds have won the Super Bowl. May God rest the soul of my late dad (and mother), and go Eagles!
It is a pleasure for me to write this article about out Super Bowl 52 champion Philadelphia Eagles. It has been a long time coming. I am 61 (although I’m told I don’t look a day over 60) and the last time our birds won a championship was on the Penn Campus (my future Alma Mater) when I was a mere four. Ironically, that game was against coach Vince Lombardi and the formidable Green Bay Packers and was the only time they lost in the championship round. For winning Super Bowl 52, the Eagles received the Lombardi Trophy, named after Vince.
By: CRAIG HARRIS
Nope—Nelson Agholor is anxious to score, And Ron Darby, is hitting hard (G) like a Mack truck be, And LeGarrette Blunt, makes the defense looks like chumps, Rolls right past them, like they had the mumps, While our defense leaves their opponents with lumps.
EAGLES NATION Is going to fly this one out, Because we bleed green and that’s what we’re about, Week after week the Eagles find a way to win, No matter what color the uniform their opponents are in, Because Jake Elliott, kicks the football 70- 80 yards just for the hell of it, And Kendricks, Hicks and Joe Walker, are professional football stalkers, They are always around the football, The corners and safeties, protect the endzone, You try to cross that line and you’ll get hit by Sidney Jones, And all you can hear from the sidelines would be moans and EAGLESgroans.NATION
• The Eagles have sold out every game since 1999 and consistently rank in the top three in attendance. Lincoln Financial Field holds 69,176.
Even though I didn’t even know what the word meant at one point, we saw many “iconic” games. Wilt and then Magic in the NBA finals. Fliers playoff games, and on October 21, 1980, Willie Wilson strike out the great Tug McGraw as the Phillies won their first world series. It only took 97 years! We had season tickets for the Eagles, and it wasn’t always pretty. Public urination, drunkenness, and the ‘please move it elsewhere’ Eagles court. But it was great times with my dad, who even ensured we got to a Super Bowl—Games surrounded by many a meal and fun.
SHOUT OUT FOR THE EAGLES
CRIAG HARRIS Craig is a One Step Away vendor and writer. He likes to write about local events and happenings.
If you are lucky enough to have a parent or parents, try to tell them you love them and patch up differences. It isn’t easy, but the effort alone would make my dad in heaven smile.
But most of all let’s not forget the coaching staff, With their x’s & o’s, and zig zag lines on a graph, And countless hours putting a plan together like math, A (TEAM) focusing on one goal, Because football is what they love and it is embedded in their soul.
KEITH BARBOUR Keith is a poet and regular One Step Away contributor. His poetry draws from the good times and the struggles.
• In 1943 many players were away at war and hence the Eagles and Steelers combined for one year to form the •Steagles.TheKennedy’s considered buying the Eagles in 1962.
• In the 2004/2005 Season, the Eagles also went 13-3 and played the same teams in the playoffs (Vikings, Falcons, Patriots). Of course, the difference being this year, the team from New England went down.
• A worker on Star Wars: The Force Awakens, David Acord, is a rabid Eagles fan and had the character in that film named Teedo say the names Celek and Fletcher as an inside joke and a tribute to his favorite team.
• The Eagles have played in 6 venues since 1933. They have been using Lincoln Financial Field since September 8, 2003, which they share with Temple University. Sylvester Stallone was at that first game wearing a Duce Staley jersey.
OSAphilly.org ● MARCH 2018 ● One Step Away 15
There are some interesting facts about the Eagles to note as we to 1931, a predecessor to our Eagles were the Frankford Yellow Jackets. They evolved to become the Eagles starting in 1933. There was a program at the time to help the indigent called the National Recovery Act whose symbol was the Eagle. Hence the name of our football •team.One of the founders was Bert Bell who was NFL commissioner for a time later on.
• In 2002, now newly-elected Eagle Hall of Famer Bryan Dawkins (safety) had a sack, recovered a fumble, and an interception. He also scored a touchdown. This was the first and only time all of these took place during one game. The Eagles lost to the Texans in that game.
It also seems that despite many differences, prayer has been a unifying force in the locker room. Not to take away from great front offices moves, but the coach has been apparently a real boon for the Eagles. For many the Eagles and other teams (especially in this city) are not about winning or losing—it is a time to bond with family and friends. This is especially true for me. There is a man everyone calls “Sy” that I have the pleasure of calling Dad.From early on he loved to take his children to a multitude of games, and live theater as well. Even when he needed to work, he made sure we had tickets to enjoy so much.
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EAGLES NATION
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16 One Step Away ● MARCH 2018 ● OSAphilly.org mn POETRY
THE DUNG HILL
So, you know what it says, what is in the dark will come to the light.
One step away from somewhere, DEVIL BANG BANG!
COME OUT THE SHELL
While your focus is on me there is one thing that’s true. Do yourself a favor, just focus on you, Because in reality that should be your whole thing.
With a whole bunch of watchers like a game of tag, I’m it!
For what I stand for, I then begin to notice a whole lot of silence.
ELEVATE(VERSEHIGHERONE)
I’m under this heap, in these burnt up streets, Trying to understand. Fire all around, everywhere I turn. The enemies’ plea, is in command. I look this way, I look that way. For answers to come abound. My only remedy is when I pray, Escaping this burnt up ground. World so cold, like freezing ice. And nothing seems to work. Sky so gray, and it’s not so nice. My Savior’s favor is first. These people I’m around, don’t truly understand, As to why the world is so cold. This earth we travel, is Satan’s land. So as Christians we must be bold. I look to the sky, to pray to the Father, To get me out of this mess. But sometimes I do say, why must I bother. Because I’m still filled with lots of stress. Don’t want to give up, there’s still more time, To straighten this crooked line. Look deep inside, this heart of mine, Salvation I look to find. So, I’ll continue to seek, for the goodness in others, Making strong men out of the weak. Leaving this jungle, to never return, Escaping the dung hill’s heap.
BRIAN BELCHER Brian is a One Step Away poet and vendor. Recently he has used his poetry to help him overcome challenges in his life.
· By Bryant Culpepper ·
Also, on the other hand you begin to see fake friends turning into imposters. When there’s people around me who don’t stand with me.
BETWEEN DESPAIR AND HOPE · By Branka Vojinović-Jegdić & Slobodan Mrkojević · If the Apocalypse ever happens it will miss me. For I was given a mark of survival at birth, Wandering over the roads Of weeping the cracked soles Of my feet leaving bloody Tracks over the paths of pain And the sunrise catching me like a wounded beast In the cage of unrest. The blossoming cherries Give me no longer consolation. And to you? To me, winters still die, Cherries still blossom, Those black horses are still playful In their gallop over Bukovac And that mulberry tree is still there, A blanket, a blue sky, The white clouds, A black coffee and her smile. In her arms she held a rabbit With a wounded leg So funny, talking restlessly And I was listening I love listening to her I love her voice, I even loved that rabbit And how I wanted to be him So she would hold me in her arms Looking at me with so much love. White clouds above us in a rush, Is it possible that all of that will disappear? The birds whisper while flying, The time is close enough. It is good for you, my friend, Cherry blossoms still waking you up With their sweet smell, Your dreams fallen asleep.
Walking through feeling like this could be fatal to the death. Keeping my peace in the process to seek justice.
When a leader walks through, and there are people around.
Just for the fact really, we don’t really know who the best is.
When I come out the shell, if you know me. You can figure out what the rest is. When the light shines on you, and you’re on the dance floor. There are plenty of people that are not to be trusted.
OUR FEATURED POETS
· By Ram · Birth into pain, A world gon’ insane Fresh in the game I gotta fight just to gain Infected wit’ the virus of fear at an early age Bad ass lil Rich was the nickname Learned behavior I’m conditioned to lose Young slave from the hood My streets singin’ the blues So much to overcome from poison to curses
BRYANT CULPEPPER Bryant is a poet an author whose work examines his own journey with homelessness, and the state of the world around him.
SLOBODAN MRKOJEVIC Slobodan is a One Step Away vendor and poet. A book of his poems was published and distributed in his home town of Slatina, Croatia.
Time in business is the effort to make money. Please like in school no talking in class. Dreams, I been chasing no time to be wasting. I have a lot on my plate with enough to do all the way through. I hear come out the shell we have much to do.
He should never have to raise a hand, I believe it should always be hands down! Where is the respect? Any weapon formed against me shall never prosper. Go ahead make me come out the shell, there you have it. When action speaks louder than words. Then you begin to wonder why there is one less man on the roster.
Just come out the shell. I always try to thank everybody for the love, and support.
Attacks on my young spirit tryin’ to stop my purpose My Mom ran the streets Dad was doin’ the same So I moved in wit’ my Aunt ‘Til they put me away 10 years old Easton was the group home Next up was Carson Valley I was on the go No family there for me so I learned to stand alone Wise beyond my years I always had an old soul
· By Brian Belcher ·
Ever since I asked God what the truth is… I been on a mission Pioneering my vision.
RICHARD “RAM” RAMSON Ram is a One Step Away poet and vendor. He likes the healing powers of spoken word, and records on YouTube under *Ram Riches*.
THE LESSONS OF HISTORY: THE PANDEMIC OF 1918 By: Zachary Caldwell
“In the year of 1918, God sent a mighty disease. It killed a many a-thousand, on land and on the seas…God is warning the nation—he’s a-warning them every way—to turn away from evil, to seek the Lord and pray.” - From a song by gospel singer Blind Willie JohnsonAsIhave often remarked in my past articles, one hundred years is seen as a historical benchmark or milestone. This year marks the hundredth anniversary of the end of the First World War, which saw the total collapse of three if not four empires and left many millions dead or grievously injured. It also cemented permanent global political alliances within the victorious Allied Forces that survive, for the most part, to this day. The war had hardly ended when the most catastrophic health crisis to befall mankind struck its deadly hand. The great flu pandemic of 1918 claimed at least 40 to 50 million lives, and even that might be a conservative estimate. The total fatalities from the flu were more than in World War I itself. Paradoxically, on the hundredth anniversary of the flu pandemic of 1918, we are faced with yet another flu outbreak, the most serious this country has faced in several decades. The 1918 pandemic struck massively and at all levels of society. In the United States, ten times as many people died because of the flu than died during the entire war; and half of the soldiers who perished in the European theater died because of the flu. The current outbreak — while regrettable as it is — is in no way comparable to the great flu pandemic of 1918-1919, thanks to flu vaccines, education, and other preventative measures.Inconclusion, medical science in the postmodern era seems to have heeded the lessons of history. Indeed, like the old adage proclaims, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” I would add that an ounce of prevention can provide at least a ton of cure. Possibly one day, through the advance of medical and scientific breakthroughs, deaths because of influenza will be as remote to future generations as the bubonic plague of medieval Europe is to ours.
OSAphilly.org ● MARCH 2018 ● One Step Away 17
I recently had a conversation with someone extremely close to me about my little quandary and one of the questions he asked me was, “what are you most interested in?” My response was, “helping people.” He knows all about my volunteer experience throughout the years and further prodded by asking me what it was when I have volunteered at The Cathedral Kitchen in Camden that affected me the most. I thought about it for a second and I said that “when you look into people’s eyes you can truly feel their pain and see the struggle that consumes them.” I continued to think about our conversation days later, which led me to write this piece.
I worked for over 12 years at the Defender Association of Philadelphia. My sole job function was to compile parole petitions for our clients to be paroled to drug and alcohol programs, house arrest, home, various re-entry programs, and work release. I currently work as an office manager for a software company that provides a means of reporting for offenders who are on probation. I have seen/heard (as has anyone in the criminal sector)
If you’re anything like me (which for the sake of your blood pressure I hope you’re not) you overthink things. I over think EVERYTHING and contemplate at least on a weekly basis what direction my life is going in. I have this feeling inside that I’m not where I’m supposed to be and that I should be making more out of my life. That I should have accomplished more by my age. That I haven’t found my way. We hear everywhere about “passion” and people say things like “if you can just find what you’re passionate about and follow that path, you will succeed and find fulfillment.”
THE STRUGGLE IS REAL
a lot of crazy things during my time. Reading books and watching movies about crime doesn’t do reality justice. Trust me—the average person wouldn’t believe a fraction of the stories I’ve heard! I personally know that there are many evil, violent people in this world who are unfit and a detriment to society. However, just like with anything else, there is a flip Thereside.are many misconceptions about those who are/have been incarcerated. People who are not in this industry tend to think that they are all degenerates, non-working, drug-addicted, horrible people. That is simply not the case. In my opinion, the criminal justice system is an oxymoron. It is very much designed for people to fail once they are in it. I won’t get into every single reason as to why I think that, but the bottom line is that if you’ve worked in this field you see that many people are just like you and me. They are hard-working, good people. They are mothers and fathers. They are students. It is because of my experiences that I try my best to treat people like people. All people.
UNCOVERED ISSUES FROM THE STREETS
SOME NEW THINGS
By: William Powell Hello, One Step Away supporters, and how are you? This is William. How has everything been since the New Year? Everything has been good for me—making all that money. You know I have been discovering some new things lately, things like those illusions. Illusions are for stuff that try you all the time and for stuff that betray you and I all the time. So I just thought that I would just share this kind of stuff with you guys. They always need to try you and I to see if they are there. I hit them with those illusions because they are there. What am I saying? The thing with that illegal lockout situation—you need to hit them with those illusions and I am trying to see if they will take off one day. They are really weird with all that trying and all that stay bye stuff. They really don’t have a home like you and I do. They are lost and that is what I am talking about. I wanted to share something else with you all, and it is the thing with the stone age out there. Sometimes the stone age situation is in the way. It will sometimes rob a person and that is what I am dealing with right now for the time being. I felt that I was robbed there, you know the thing with that illegal lockout situation. There are other things that I’ve seen too, things like I just can’t seem to catch myself to save the day for my own individual self. It is just too complicated to come along in a moment of an instance, so you pray for me and that will be enough.
However, does “success” necessarily mean financial gain? Or does it mean personal growth and happiness? Does it mean BOTH? I obviously don’t know, but I believe that success means different things to different people.
I’m using my experiences working in the criminal justice system as a microcosm for other facets of life where misconceptions follow. Many people think that everyone who is homeless just doesn’t want to work or is a drug addict. That is not the case for all. I’ve met so many while working in Philly who are homeless and WORKING towards a better future for themselves, but they just haven’t obtained housing yet. I admire those people. They inspire me. I’ve volunteered my time for a year and half as a literacy tutor to a wonderful woman from Mexico. I had negative people tell me when I started that program things like “does she really need a tutor?” “people like that just take from the government.” Those are horrible things to say about a person! My student was an incredibly hard-working, religious, family-oriented woman who wanted to better herself and I tried my best to help her. I’ve looked into people’s eyes who are homeless, the working poor, illiterate, convicted criminals and I have seen the struggle that they face, and it moves me to tears. Yes, there are many people who don’t give a shit about their lives or the lives of others in this world. There are many people who have done horrific violent acts to other human beings. There are people who don’t want to better themselves or their situations. But for all of those who fall into those categories, there are millions who WANT, WORK, DESIRE,
DISCOVERING
By: Vanessa Fiore
There are onsite Outreach Coordination Center case aides to assist those wishing to seek shelter and possibly work towards long term permanent housing. For me, going back to 2011, I have been along this journey with the Hub of Hope— starting off as someone receiving services and now someone who volunteers in that great space. I know all too well about the struggles of homelessness and the barriers that come along with it. I am transgender. I use she, her/they, them pronouns. Accessing services can be challenging for me at times, the stigmas are a big issue. Telling folks your truths sometimes can be used against you.
I have had many struggles of my own, some of them financial and others emotional. There have been times where I’ve had to sell some of my possessions for a couple hundred dollars or liquidate an account because we needed to pay bills. There have been several times I’ve seriously contemplated getting a 2nd job. I wasn’t happy about these things and it made me feel like a loser at the time, but I’ll tell you what—we get through life by any means necessary. Whatever it takes. Emergencies pop up. Shit happens. And sometimes you don’t have someone to call for help, so you’ve got to make the best decision at the time on your own and let the chips fall where they may. I look back and just think “we got through it and that’s all that matters.”
Writers can be homeless, housed, or anywhere in between. Submit to OSA@RHD.ORG
TIME O R A N G E P O K E M S A S S A F R A S F W M Q A S F P N E Z W T H F V R G M R R D G V H J J Z C T Z F I G K L T J T H L N U O T T H G H G G J P D U I F Y N B G I N G E R K L A M V K Q S C T T S I L O L C H A M O M I L E J A S M I N E M A R A N H V L V O C E X V U A K Q A G R C A V I D O M O O O L O N G R S H R R E K G E L E A R L G R A Y P M G J C G A P G N N E K Z K H C E X R U L N L A R S P I G D M P B S N C V E X Q I O B E E B E N E E O C P R T C A C L R C M H P M E P S S R N R K Z Y Y B B W Y O E S A O R Y E P W Y C M N F T L M S O R L M D P R T N I Z C T G Y G W A J V H I V L D F Y C G C I U N A T F B Q I B T C T T W B Z V X E O N I Y K O Z F N D O E X N M O S Z E Y P Z M U O J N A J M J E Y E Y C B C L R F R O T K O B W D L G O G R E E N E Q N B V M S N O I N M A K G D L Q G U R O MINT CHAMOMILE GREEN JASMINE SASSAFRAS CHAI PEACH LEMON BLACK RASBERRY POMERGRANT EARLGRAY PEPPERMINT GINGER ORAGNGESPICE OOLONG LICORICE LAVENDER LEMONGRASS GINSENG ORANGEPOKE -THANKS!MARIASOLUTIONPUZZLEFebruary’s
To the people working minimum wage jobs, because that’s all they can get—I stand with you. To the single moms who work multiple jobs but cannot afford to take their kids on vacation or send them to college—I stand with you. To the individuals experiencing homelessness, who take little steps every day to better their situations—I stand with you. To the blue-collar workers who bust their asses working jobs most of us wouldn’t be able to tolerate for little pay—I stand with you. To the people who come to this country and work the jobs others think are beneath them—I stand with you.
One Step Away is a community newspaper, accepting submissions from anyone who would like to lend their voice to the conversation.
KAT DELANCY Kat is transgender and known to the LGBTQ Community for standing up for what she believes in, even if that means standing alone. She recently became a One Step Away vendor and this is her first submission.
POWELLWILLIAM William is a One Step Away writer likesvendor.andHetouse his articles to stay in touch with his andcustomersregulars.
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By: Kat Delancy
18 One Step Away ● MARCH 2018 ● OSAphilly.org
CALDWELLZACHARY Zachay is a One Step Away vendor and writer. He studied history at Temple University, which informs much of his writing.
There is something about life’s struggle that is beautiful. If you’re struggling, you know you’re still alive and very much part of this world. It is powerful. It evokes emotion. It’s what pushes us. It’s what causes others to see our truth. If you are open-minded enough to see it, it can completely change your perception of life and others. As I think through these thoughts, it leads me to believe that maybe I’m not destined to achieve crazy financial success. I am starting to think that I am MEANT to dedicate my life to helping people in whatever way I can. Maybe a life of service is right where I belong. That is when I feel most alive. That is what makes my heart feel full. So, don’t look away or judge the next time you see someone struggling in life. Instead I challenge you to look them right in the eyes. You might just see something that resonates with your soul.
TEA
The Hub of Hope began back in 2011 as a safe space for the most vulnerable homeless sleeping in the concourses of Suburban Station in center city Philadelphia. Folks came in seeking case management services in order to access shelter or permanent housing. If people wanted to seek treatment for their substance abuse, the case management staff would also assist with that. Many times, people that are living on the streets do not access health care easily. The Hub of Hope provides a safe space for folks to sit and meet with doctors. Since 2012, the Hub of Hope—operating in an 850 square-foot storefront in Suburban Station from January-April—has placed thousands of those experiencing chronic homelessness into shelter, treatment, and other housing options. In 2017, 1,462 individuals visited the Hub of Hope more than 11,000 times.
FIOREVANESSA Vanessa enjoys writing as a creative outlet and writes about a variety of topics findexperiences.poverty,homelessness,including:andreallifeYoucanmoreofherwork at: saddleupwithstella.com
A HUB OF HOPE, NOT YOUR AVERAGE HUB
HOPE for more.
IN THE COMMUNITY
On January 31, 2018, Project HOME, Project HOME’s Outreach Coordination Center, the city of Philadelphia, and SEPTA held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the new Hub of Hope in the Center City sub concourse located under the Municipal Services Building, their address is 1400 Arch Street. The 11,000 square-foot facility is the first-of-its-kind engagement center for the homeless. The centers hours are Monday-Friday, 7AM-7PM and Saturdays and Sundays from 3PM-7PM. The new center will not offer a place to sleep, but will provide coffee, showers, and a place to do laundry daily. On weekends, it will serve free meals. The expansion will also allow for a health clinic, medical professionals and behavioral health specialists to be on site, as well as certified peer specialists who can help people apply for jobs or just be of a peer support.
The Hub of Hope provides the guests coming through its doors a sense of humanity. If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness and wish you access services, you can visit the Hub of Hope, Monday through Friday, 7AM-7PM, Saturdays and Sundays, 3-7PM. The city’s 24-hour Outreach Hotline can be reached at 215-232-1984 or toll free, 1-877-222-1984
OSAphilly.org ● MARCH 2018 ● One Step Away 19 PUZZLE COMICS
Across 2. Boulevard parallel to I-95 where Penn's Landing sits 5. The City's original main riverside street 7. Originally known as High Street, is a major east–west street in Philadelphia 8. The Delaware Indian word for "a place where there is a meadow" 10. Named after famous Civil Rights Leader, and has scenic views of Boathouse Row 13. "The city's premier shopping street", near Rittenhouse Park. 14. The City’s original main riverside street Down 1. Named after the brother of famous actress and Princess of Monaco, 3.GraceParts of the road are signed as U.S. Route 1, U.S. Route 13, and Route 41. A section of the road within the city limits of Philadelphia and surrounding boroughs is known 4. The Community College of Philadelphia sits on this street 6. Named after the River, this Avenue runs North 9. Avenue in South Philadelphia named after a PA politician, Simon, who was first elected Pennsylvania Constitutional Convention in 1789 11. This street boasts a rainbow crosswalk 12. Home of the Subway heading South to North
ReasonEmailPhoneName for Nominatednominationby(yourname) I’D LIKE TO NOMINATE... MAIL THIS SLIP TO: One Step Away P.O. Box Philadelphia,63703PA 19147 NOMINATE homelessheroesYOURFORTHE AwayStepOne Staff 2015 STEPPY AWARDEE INGRID ABRAMS, THE ATTIC YOUTH CENTER OR email us at: osa@rhd.org OR THROUGH FACEBOOK AT: www.facebook.com/osaphilly SEE
issue FOR ANSWER
About the artist:
Douglas Pope Wilson, resident of the city of Wilmington, Delaware, and self taught artist, has illustrated for a variety of publications. His interests are world events, classic films, British comedy, science fiction, jazz, manga and good books. Presently Douglas is writing and illustrating a graphic novel. The artist is currently blessed to be a part of the One Step Away family!
streetsPhilly
Help us spread the word that even in tough times, great things are possible— and they’re happening every day! One Step Away is now accepting nominations for the 8th Annual Steppy Awards, honoring those working to end homelessness. There are so many community members who make the world around them a better place, with little recognition and few thanks. The Steppy Awards are our opportunity to shine the spotlight on those who work tirelessly to assist, inspire, and champion for people in need. But we need your help; we rely on your nominations of coworkers, friends, mentors or just people you notice doing good work in the community who deserve special recognition. This is your opportunity to show appreciation; please tell us who you think deserves special acknowledgement this year. April’s
20 One Step Away ● MARCH 2018 ● OSAphilly.org insp.ngo /inspstreetpapers@_INSP 2,000 volunteers support our global movement Over 100 street papers Published in 24 languages Our network in numbers is made up of: Our global network Every month, collectivelyvendorsearn Million£2.59,300 vendors sell street papers at any one time 21,000 vendors earn an income by selling street papers each year Million5.5 readers worldwide in 34 That’scountriesagrand total of £30 Million in the pockets of vendors every year 24 Million street papers were sold across the world in the past year = $ 42 Million earned by our hardworking street vendors