The Power of One
Jerry was brought to our attention by a trusted friend who works at a service provider supporting him, while Jay (voluntary 'Advocate') was recruited through one of our Relationship Support Committee members, who knows Jay from her church. Now, the two Harlemites regularly enjoy grabbing pizza, playing blackjack, and even attending Mets games together.
All of this—and so much more, as you’ll discover if you read on—is made possible through the coordination and creative dedication of our staff.
Our Staff
Our Program Manager Jane, who faithfully drives this mission forward week in and week out, reflects on her five years at Do For One, during which she has facilitated many matches: "As I witness relationships that were once new now reaching their 3- or 5-year anniversaries (!!), I am continually humbled by the sacrificial love humans are capable of and the mutual transformation that keeps unfolding."
And Ben, our Program Coordinator, whose methodical work has strengthened our mission, says, “This year, I’ve had the privilege of facilitating a few of these matches and seeing them blossom into mutual, life-giving friendships. I have been deeply moved by New Yorkers who have said “yes” to entering into the difficult life circumstances of another person and growing close in the process.”
See our progress of our Go-Givers Campaign and consider supporting our talented staff team!
Jerry (right) and Jay (left) at the Mets game
Loyalty
Now, as Jerry is facing some housing transitions, he currently lives in a nursing home. Despite these changes, Jay has remained a constant, loyal presence in Jerry's life. He has continued offering Jerry the chance to get out of the building for more of those familiar times with Jay grabbing pizza or enjoying the park.
To foster the kind of loyalty that enables two people to freely give of themselves—not only across societal barriers but also through significant challenges—our staff provides an orientation to the role of Advocates. For example, we discuss principles like Loyalty with them. But we also offer ongoing guidance, support, and encouragement, remaining available when unforeseen circumstances arise.
Jerry captures something so profound about the fruit of recruitment, our orientation, and ongoing support when he says,
"He's been there for me every step of the way. I memorized his phone number just in case something happens to my phone. He checks in on me and I can count on him."
The Power of One
It seems like every day we hear about yet another “unprecedented” event in the news, adding to the growing anxiety in the air. For every major global headline about societal or institutional collapse—stories that can easily instill a sense of helplessness and fear—there are thousands of untold individual stories of marginalized people quietly slipping through the cracks.
But as Mother Teresa famously said, “If I look at the mass, I will never act. If I look at the one, I will.”
This is the invitation that you are putting out into the world when you give to the Go-Givers Campaign. Go-Givers bring into existence a common unity. They speak through words and deeds but know that deeds speak louder than words.
With gratitude,
Andrew