January 2024: Celebrating 100!
One milestone last year was reaching our 100th match in the program’s history. To celebrate, we thought we'd share some rare gems in our early history you may not have heard.
See below for those stories and a video featuring both stories.
We celebrate the commitment that you, as Advocates and Partners, have made to one another over the years and those of you who have supported them. In a time when social bonds are not easy to foster and grow, it is truly remarkable to witness you taking leaps of faith and persevering through countless obstacles to create a new social fabric of hope.
John and Keith
It was 2012.
Do For One was just an idea, and Andrew shared it with his friend John at Chipotle. John said, “I’m not sure if I’m the right fit but I’d like to meet someone.”
Both bass players from Brooklyn, John and Keith would meet regularly to jam.
John (left) and Keith (right) jam at a Brooklyn rehearsal studio.
“I realized it’s not something God was calling me to do. I think it’s something that we’re all called to. There are different ways you can fulfill what you say you believe, and this is one of those ways. It’s not as intense as you think it might be. It turns out it’s just getting up one day, going out to meet one person who you know might need you, and trying to be there for them.”
Judy and Ali
Pictured left: Ali and Judy trying on clothes at the GAP. Pictured right: Ali and Andrew at Judy’s High School Graduation in 2017
Ali and Andrew were introduced to Judy by a mutual friend on Roosevelt Island back in 2014.
Ten years later, Ali and Judy shop at the Gap and regularly visit Trader Joe's. Judy is also an active member of Hope Astoria church and loves to sit in the front row during musical worship, singing along with the worship team. She also helps Andrew and the team tear down the worship stage after the service.
Judy celebrating her birthday at Hope Astoria Church!
Watch this introductory video of Do For One featuring John, Keith, Ali, Judy, and more!
