This week I spent two days in a leadership institute with people from all kinds of nonprofits. On the first day we had to give a one minute talk about our organization. One minute is not a lot of time. I also found it hard to figure out how to convey what we believe and do with folks in one minute. I think ultimately that is why the stories are so powerful, they tell the something that we could never put into a three point, one minute speech.
I have decided we should collect the stories and ask that some of you share those stories within this blog. My story is about a woman who lives at Spring Street. While she has struggled with life these past months, the evening of her house mate's death I stopped by to see how folks were doing. What absolutely amazed me, brought tears to my eyes, was that she was inviting into her home, she was clearly saddened by the loss but also spoke of her friend in a kind and loving way ending with her hope that he was in a better place. She requested that family and friends be told and comforted one of her other housemates. I walked away thinking how amazing life can be. There are small gifts sometimes in our work and that moment, for me, was one of them.
I want to know what you said in one minute that covers our mission and what an outstanding job everyone does to fulfill that mission, etc. I need a 'Readers Digest' version.
ReplyDeleteMy story is about one truly amazing man who has attending TPC for many years. Five years ago, when I first was employed at TPC, I would see this gentleman frequently but most times he was in the middle of a behavior issue. Honestly, when ever I thought of him I also thought of his behavior issues. About 2 years ago something happened that would change his life forever, not to mention how it would touch the lives of everyone around him. He started working with one of our staff in the shop on woodworking projects, something no one thought could ever happen. Yes, it was a pretty rough ride for awhile but he has adjusted and now is an active participant who enjoys doing the sanding as well as other jobs within the shop area. In fact, some days he doesn't want to leave at the end of the day. How cool is that!
The first day he walked into the office, stood in front of my desk and held out his finished project for me to see I had to turn away as tears were streaming down my face. This was the very first time that he had ever approached me and his pride in completing a project like this from start to finish was overwhelming. He also spoke! Speaking is something we never think about; it's just part of life. But this was the very first time ever that I had heard his voice! Yes, for 3 years I didn't know that he could speak. How sad. From that day forward I have watched this remarkable man make a truly amazing transition from being extremly shy with frequent behavior issues to an individual who now takes pride in his accomplishments and is comfortable starting conversations with strangers. He also enjoys volunteer work in the community, something that he does twice a week.
Am I proud to be a part of the team at The Progress Center....you bet! Stories like the one I just shared are but one of many. The word 'Progress' in our name says it all as we witness the 'progress' of the wonderful individuals served by TPC on a daily basis. I also want to acknowledge the amazing staff that we have. I have seen many changes in them as they are the vehicle that enables these folks to grow in ways that enhance their lives and helps them to be active participants in their communities and enjoy life to it's fullest. It not only touches and adds to my life, but to theirs and everyone around them as well. This is a win-win situation for all.
Telling folks that their friend has passed away was difficult. There were many tears as individuals were told, but it was so touching to see the care and concern for each other that was shared. Often, we, as staff, want to shelter folks from such pain as they have so much to deal with each and every day, but we often underestimate their understanding of things. Speaking the truth is essential even when it is difficult. We strive to give folks the opportunity to become a productive part of their community each and every day but we also nurture and support their right to experience even the most difficult aspects of life, and they often amaze me with their dignity and their love for each other. Sharing this with staff and the folks we support has made my life so much more meaningful and enriched. It definitely is a win-win situation for all.
ReplyDeleteI am always in awe of life and what she throws our way...but even more how we all live, learn and love through it all.
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