I didn't expect my final blog entry of 2024 to be about a trashcan, but this story shows exactly why our work is so unique.
Every year, our mentors choose specific gifts for each student. Instead of assuming what would be good for them, we take time to ask and listen to their answers.
When our Program Director, Wanda, asked Layla (not her real name) what she wanted for Christmas, Layla didn't hesitate. "A TRASH CAN." she said.
Katie, who was taking notes so she could go shopping, jumped in. Instead of arguing with Layla, Katie began asking clarifying questions about the shape, size, color, and material of the trash can.
When the gifts came in and we passed them out, Layla got exactly what she wanted and asked for! We trusted her when she told us what mattered to her, and worked as a community to make it happen.
It's common for nonprofits and charities to assume they know what's good for the people they serve. Outside ideas are often forced into communities in exchange for funding or resources.
For the last sixteen years, Presencia has always worked in relationship with our neighbors. We go to weddings, parties, and funerals. We hire children from our community to grow into mentoring roles. We ask our neighbors what they need, listen carefully to what they say, and shape our programs to meet those needs in love.
Right now, after sixteen years of loving presence, our ability to stay present, sustain our staff, and keep our doors open to our students is in crisis. To start 2025 in a secure position, we need to raise $225,000. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we have raised $95,000 of that, and we're waiting to see what comes in as people who care about our work make year-end giving decisions.
To check in on our progress, advocate for us, or make a donation toward our goal, you can click HERE or go to our "DONATE" page. As always, thank you for helping us share the power of loving presence over time.
Have a Happy New Year!