June 2024: Time Well Spent
One frequent reminder we give to our Advocates and Partners is that their get-togethers don't have to be big, extravagant events or heroic acts of assistance. Simple activities like grabbing a coffee, having lunch, or going for a walk are just as meaningful.
The philosopher Epicurus says, "It is not so much our friends' help that helps us as it is, as the confidence of their help." In other words, it's not just our friends' assistance that supports us, but the reassurance we gain from knowing they're available when needed.
Building this assurance comes from spending time together, often through the small and ordinary moments in life like...
Leisure Time
Jay (left) and Jerry (right)
Jay (Advocate) is visiting Jerry (Partner) for some pizza in Harlem.
“Jay got me a deck of cards and we like to play blackjack. He checks in on me and I can count on him.”
Unstructured Time
Leda (Partner, right) finds joy in simply spending time with Inbar (Advocate, left) outside the structured environment of her typical special needs programming.
Leda captures this beauty perfectly, saying,
“I can’t believe we get to do this. We’re alone, together. We’re together… alone!”
Downtime
Daniel (Advocate) and Leroy (Partner) cherish their downtime together, whether it’s watching a movie, shopping, or enjoying a meal at Leroy’s favorite spot—McDonald’s.
Daniel says,
“Leroy is such a kind and thoughtful guy. I want to help him grow in his confidence. He deserves the best.”
The above image is from our last picnic on Roosevelt Island, showcasing the result of countless people across the city investing in simple, everyday moments, weaving together a rich network of trust.
