I have fear that the government shutdown would impact the least of us more. That which some see as entitlement, I have to view as assistance with survival. I'm a part of the homeless community and I fight to keep my head above water.
If He Can Smile, So Can I
About a month ago I had a couple new associates start working at my store. I am a manager at a Wal-Mart. I often try to take some time within the first few days to try to get to know our new people. During my conversation with Brad he said several times how thankful he [...]
Speak Up's New Office
We are thrilled. Frankly, that pretty much falls short in describing our gratitude and excitement. The story goes like this. We needed a space. Working in coffee shops served its purpose for a season, but there's only so many hours of work time one can expect to squeeze out of the dollar-and-change cup of coffee [...]
Street Soccer USA Charlotte Invitational
Last weekend was the first annual Street Soccer USA Charlotte Invitational. This tournament brought homeless soccer players together from Charlotte, Maryland, New York and Milwaukee.
Give a Sleeping Bag This Winter
Most of us have a sleeping bag in our house, right? Mine sits comfortably in my closet. I use it about once a month–which is actually above average usage for a sleeping bag owner. Imagine there being a need for that simple thing in your closet.
"Currently Housed Homeless"
One morning while waiting for the Lynx to take me to the now defunct Reid’s Fine Foods for some ice cream, I noticed a young man trying to get my attention from across the rails. To the trained eye (or maybe I should say, the concerned eye) he had the telltale signs of homelessness. Worn shoes. Rumpled, slept-in clothing.
Give Me Your Eyes
I just finished watching the movie Leap Year, a cute story of a woman named Anna who goes to Ireland to propose to her rich boyfriend but falls in love with a poor, down-to-earth Irish lad who loves her unconditionally. In this quest, she realizes her complete materialism, and realizes that all she really wants [...]
Charlotte News and Needs
3,237 homeless kids are enrolled in public schools throughout Charlotte this year, funeral with honor for a homeless veteran, volunteers needed to prepare new shelter space and more…
University City Fellowship at The Wall
Crowds of people off the street in line waiting to be fed. Tables filled with all the fixings of a home-cooked meal. People willing to reach out to those who need help and make a difference in someone’s life. Those are a few of the things one should expect to see on a Saturday afternoon on Phifer Street.
The Gift of Love
My involvement with Speak Up Magazine may have just begun, but it certainly has been characterized by countless lessons learned and unforgettable experiences.

