Archive | Blog RSS feed for this section

My Heart is Full: An Evening at the Urban Ministry Center

“I feel like I should go home and cry,” I thought to myself after leaving the Urban Ministry Center. My heart was full and I had a big smile on my face after attending the UMC’s Artworks945 Art Auction and Sale on September 10th.

Read full story

First Copy Printed

This magazine has the potential to give hope and employment to many homeless and low-income individuals in Charlotte, NC, and surrounding. To print the remaining 9,999 copies, we need your help.

Read full story

Unemployment Hurts

It is not easy to write this post. It's hard not to be ashamed and embarrassed because of what I’ve been through. But those feelings are exactly why I'm writing; because fear, shame and silence stop people from asking for help–when help is the only way back up.

Read full story

"Get a Job!"

I’ve been working since I was thirteen. I attended the University of Richmond for my undergrad degree and then completed a program at George Mason University, where I received an MBA. In August 2008, I was laid off from a job I really enjoyed.

Read full story
Aside

Volunteer Opportunities

In the words of Dr. King, anyone can be great because anyone can serve. Volunteers are the bedrock of nonprofit organizations, and Speak Up is no exception. WE NEED YOU! There are opportunities ranging from sweeping floors to heading up entire teams.

Read full story
Aside

Sponsor An Issue!

Businesses and organizations: Sponsor the first issue of Speak Up with a $300 donation. Benefits of sponsorship are many…

Read full story
Aside

Camping is Fun — When You Have a Choice

As those close to me know, I love overnight wilderness adventure. Loading a big backpack (or a minimalist rucksack) and heading out for a weekend in the mountains of North Carolina is one of my greatest passions.

Read full story
Aside

Fun-Raising

People are asked for money all the time. Depending on your sphere of influence (and how rigorously you filter your inbox), charitable "asks" can be a daily expectation. So we're trying to have fun with it.

Read full story
Aside

Super Simple Survey

In the months leading up to Speak Up's launch, we're trying to communication our vision as clearly as possible. It can be a bit tough to do, especially when the actual magazine is just a "concept" floating in the air. This 30-second survey helps us.

Read full story
Aside

Social Network for Good

On Saturday my wife Lana was out for coffee with a friend.  She saw an older lady holding a "please help" sign.  After talking with her for a few minutes and finding out some of her needs, Lana called me.  This sweet lady, who not long ago lost her job and then her apartment, wanted [...]

Read full story