I am lucky enough to be able to say that up to this point in my life I have never gone without the basic human necessities. There has been food, clothing, shelter, and most importantly kindness from those around me. It is this last necessity that is often overlooked in helping to share with others to meet their needs. That is why I was drawn to the intention behind the Rainbow Day of Love organization.
This local non-profit is made up solely of people who volunteer their time and resources to others in our own communities who are in need. What makes them different is the emphasis that is put on making conversation and genuine direct contact with those receiving the meals that are offered. Volunteers not only make and pack the meals but hand deliver them on the streets, in the parks, and parking lots where our homeless and hungry reside. They take the time to talk with the individuals who want conversation, to literally lend a helping hand to those who need it, and to offer a smile to those who desperately need someone to acknowledge them.
When I was first approached for a monetary donation on behalf of our business I had to decline as the Rainbow Day of Love organization was not an official 501c3 non-for profit entity. I encouraged our friend Deb, who is one of the driving forces behind Rainbow Day of Love, to follow her purpose and revisit us as a donor once they were an official non-profit. Several months later I received a very joyful announcement from Deb that they were officially a 501c3!! Since then we have found ways to support their cause by encouraging our employees to volunteer, through donations, helping to create awareness via social media, and through donation buckets located at the registers in our stores where customers can participate with their contributions.
This past November was the first time I was able to see firsthand how the volunteers work to make the meals, pack them, and streamline the distribution of the meals. I was so impressed. People we are happy and working quickly to complete the tasks at hand. Not only were meals packed for people, 2 per person, but there were literally doggie bags with food for the canine companions of the homeless. Deb helped me to realize that even hungry people would feed their dogs before themselves so having food available for their pets meant that they would keep their meals for themselves as intended.
I am proud that Headed West supports Rainbow Day of Love and I am in complete awe of the power of great intentions behind this organization. If you would like more information on Rainbow Day of Love please visit their website at http://www.rainbowdayoflove.org/.
