“I want to see every human being have the ability, the potential, the access to resources to develop and to live the best life possible.” - Sherri Brandon, Front Steps Director
Just 19 days ago the students of the Second Online Leadership Class of Next Level Trainings declared a goal to raise $59,036 for Front Steps Housing and Services. The call came when one of our own leaders shared her experience with homelessness and how the organization presented her with not just food and shelter, but a life solution.
To date, Front Steps Housing and Services has helped over 3,500 individuals and families just like her get back on their feet, reconnect with their families and obtain behavioral health services. In Cuyahoga County, 18% of the population lives in poverty; More than half are chronically homeless, stifled by disabilities, mental illness, and unemployment. To tackle the issue of homelessness, Front Steps Housing and Services aims to help rebuild people and communities one by one.
Reaching out to our own communities, local businesses, and families we have exceeded our goal! In this, we celebrate. We celebrate each and every person that helped us cross the finish line. We could not have done it without them, their compassion, and the love that was infused into this effort.
We also celebrate those from around the world who contributed their time and talent. April 24th, 2021 we organized an Online Virtual Talent show with the intention to share Front Steps with our communities, share the talents of those around us and contribute to our overall fundraising goal. Our efforts were fruitful, and we raised over $55,000 in donations.
We’ve witnessed and cheered for our local performers, created space for healing, and provided laughter and play for our youth. As the community has assisted us in our goal, we celebrate those who have found Front Steps Housing and Services and those who have yet to embrace it.
We are proud to share with you that as of April 30th, 2021, not only did we reach our intended goal of $50,000 we surpassed it. The funds will be routed to many avenues of Front Steps Housing and Services, their continued expansion, and towards providing second chances to many within Cleveland, OH.
Now that you’ve had a moment to celebrate with us, we ask you…what is your next step? What will you do to break the cycle of homelessness for a better today, tomorrow, and a lifetime?