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Generously sponsored by: schools do not have art programs. Volunteers will design lesson plans about an artist, movement, or technique and develop a fun, hands-on project for the students to express their creativity and show the skills they have learned through that week’s lesson. Time Commitment: 2-3 hours a week (more if you’re planning that week’s lesson) ...Wizards:...Wizards:...Wizards:...Wizards: Volunteers travel to various Boston-area schools to introduce children to the wonders
Citation preview
Generously sponsored by:
WHO CARES? WE CARE!
http://www.bu.edu/csc/http://www.bu.edu/csc/http://www.bu.edu/csc/http://www.bu.edu/csc/
…………Afterschool: Afterschool: Afterschool: Afterschool: Volunteers tutor, offer one-on-one homework assistance, make arts and crafts,
tell stories, and lead educational games at a variety of local Afterschool programs. Such programs
have been shown to reduce juvenile delinquency. Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week …Alternative Spring Breaks (ASB): …Alternative Spring Breaks (ASB): …Alternative Spring Breaks (ASB): …Alternative Spring Breaks (ASB): The alternative to the traditional spring break.
Volunteers travel to sites throughout North America to assist with community service projects
ranging from disaster relief, environmental protection and restoration, and many more.
Time Commitment: Week of spring break
…Children’s Theatre (CT): …Children’s Theatre (CT): …Children’s Theatre (CT): …Children’s Theatre (CT): Volunteers create original variety shows that they perform for
young children in hospitals and shelters. Shows range from storybook adaptations to improvisation
and feature lessons and morals relevant to today’s youth. Time Commitment: 2 hours per week
…First…First…First…First----Year Student Outreach Project (FYSOP): Year Student Outreach Project (FYSOP): Year Student Outreach Project (FYSOP): Year Student Outreach Project (FYSOP): First-year students come to campus
one week prior to the start of the fall semester to volunteer for ten different issue areas: Children,
Disabilities, Elders, Environment, Gender Focus, HIV/AIDS Awareness, Homelessness and Housing,
Hunger and Urban Renewal. Time Commitment: Week before classes start …Joining Hands: …Joining Hands: …Joining Hands: …Joining Hands: Volunteers work with people with disabilities and elders in a variety of
settings in the Greater Boston Area. Volunteers may serve organizations including Newton Special
Athletes, Best Buddies or Winners on Wheels. Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week ...Making Music:...Making Music:...Making Music:...Making Music:Volunteers teach instrumental music, vocal music, and dance to school children
who do not have access to a formal music education program. Both students and volunteers have the
opportunity to perform on campus at the annual Making Music Recital.
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per week (full year)
...Multicultural Advancement Partnership Program (MAPP): ...Multicultural Advancement Partnership Program (MAPP): ...Multicultural Advancement Partnership Program (MAPP): ...Multicultural Advancement Partnership Program (MAPP): Volunteers work
with refugees, immigrants, and international students to enhance their understanding of English and
their experience in America. Special emphasis is placed on literacy, English and their experience in
America. Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week ...Project Hope: ...Project Hope: ...Project Hope: ...Project Hope: Project Hope seeks to show compassion, gain understanding and educate
others about the HIV/AIDS virus. Volunteers may work with organizations such as the AIDS Action
Committee, Cambridge Cares About AIDS, the Boston Living Center and others.
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week ...Siblings (Sibs): ...Siblings (Sibs): ...Siblings (Sibs): ...Siblings (Sibs): Volunteers are paired with elementary school children in one-on-one
mentoring relationships. Siblings pairs meet regularly and participate in activities such as an annual
Halloween party and “Siblympics,” museum trips, days at the park, Fitrec adventures and dinners at
BU dining halls. In the past, Siblings has received free tickets to Disney on Ice and Celtics games.
Time Commitment: 3-5 hours biweekly (full year) ...Student Food Rescue (SFR):...Student Food Rescue (SFR):...Student Food Rescue (SFR):...Student Food Rescue (SFR):Volunteers collect food from local restaurants, supermarkets,
and bakeries and distribute it to meal programs, food pantries, and shelters. Volunteers also serve
meals at community suppers and prepare food baskets for distribution. Time Commitment: 2-4
hours per week
...Student Studio: ...Student Studio: ...Student Studio: ...Student Studio: This program seeks to bring a visual arts education to area students whose
schools do not have art programs. Volunteers will design lesson plans about an artist, movement, or
technique and develop a fun, hands-on project for the students to express their creativity and show
the skills they have learned through that week’s lesson. Time Commitment: 2-3 hours a week
(more if you’re planning that week’s lesson)
...Voices from the Middle (VFM): ...Voices from the Middle (VFM): ...Voices from the Middle (VFM): ...Voices from the Middle (VFM): Voices from the Middle volunteers work with middle-
school students to write and perform their own plays. This creative outlet gives the students the
opportunity to voice their concerns though a productive medium in a positive environment. Time
Commitment: 2-3 hours per week
...Wizards: ...Wizards: ...Wizards: ...Wizards: Volunteers travel to various Boston-area schools to introduce children to the wonders
of science. Volunteers teach weekly experiments that allow the children to make real connections
between scientific principles and the world around them. Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per week
32
Table of contents
The Circle of Life
Letter from the PM… 2
Letter from your H&H Co’s… 3
Meet your Coordinators… 4
FYSOP 21 Schedule… 5
Meet your Staff… 6
FYSOP time
Education Day Info… 13
Site Profiles… 14
Group Site Schedule… 18
Introduction to H&H…. 19
Children & Homelessness… 20
Teenagers & Homelessness… 21
Veterans & Homelessness… 22
Healthcare & Unemployment… 23
Health Complications… 24
Myths & Facts… 25
Negative Perceptions… 27
FYSOP Fusion… 28
It’s only the beginning
Stay Involved After FYSOP... 30
Sources … 31
CSC Programs… 32
1
2
August 23, 2010
Dear FYSOPers,
Welcome to FYSOP 21! By taking part in FYSOP you are joining the ranks of
FYSOPers who have been doing service for the past 21 years. FYSOP started in 1989
when Stephen McMahon had an idea to unite a group of first-year students through a
shared experience of community service. McMahon’s initial program involved ten
staff leaders and 60 volunteers arriving at Boston University a week early to com-
plete a house with Habitat for Humanity.
This year, FYSOP 21 has 1,000 volunteers, 220 staff members, 20 coordinators
and ten issue areas! This year, FYSOP has gone green with online registration,
added a brand new issue area: Urban Renewal, increased its impact by adding
educational content on the web and will broadcast live during parts of FYSOP. You
couldn’t have picked a better time to join FYSOP!
FYSOP will not only introduce you to Boston, but you may find it opens doors to
you—be it new friends, passions and opportunities. Whether this is your first time
doing service or you are a seasoned volunteer, you are about to join a quarter of the
incoming freshman class who are giving their time and service. You will be amazed
by the volunteers in your group, your staff leaders, your coordinators and the sites
you will work with.
In this next week, I challenge you to let go and be yourself. Seize every moment
and truly let yourself embrace every hour of service, every minute you “ride the
pony” (you’ll learn what that is soon enough) and every second you take in
reflection. If you let it, FYSOP can build a solid foundation for your career at Boston
University. This week is just the beginning.
Thank you so much for joining the coordinators, staff leaders and myself for
FYSOP 21. We have been eagerly awaiting your arrival all summer! As you venture
out into the JUNGLE that is Boston, don’t forget the bare necessities. Bring an open
mind, compassionate heart and willingness to branch out (pun intended) and try new
things. Don’t be afraid to ask for directions, share your sunscreen and mind your
lunch. This is going to be a safari you will never forget. So, ….welcome to the….
Jump into something that is
Unique and
Nothing you have experienced before.
Get to know yourself, your group and staff leaders.
Learn to let go and
Experience FYSOP and your new community!
FYSOPlovin’,
Colleen
When I w
as a
freshm
an…
FYSO
P 17!!
SOURCES
31
http://www.mahomeless.org/Resources/shelter/experiencinghomelessness.html http://www.familyhomelessness.org/
http://www.nhchc.org/Curriculum/module1/module1D/H3MythsandFactsaboutHomelessness.pdf http://www.bridgeotw.org/pages/whybridgeworks.html http://www.nchv.org/background.cfm http://www.nationalhomeless.org/factsheets/veterans.html http://www.nationalhomeless.org/factsheets/health.html http://www.nationalhomeless.org/factsheets/education.html
http://www.nationalhomeless.org/factsheets/employment.html http://www.fanniemae.com/media/pdf/GP_Citiesfinal.pdf http://www.thetaskforce.org/reports_and_research/homeless_youth http://www.usmayors.org/hhsurvey2007/hhsurvey07.pdf
http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/lib.nsf/db900sid/LGEL-5JVE4E/$file/wb-home-may01.pdf?openelement http://www.delmar.edu/socsci/rlong/problems/chap-06.htm
Stay Involved After FYSOP:
Pine Street Inn -
Prepare meals and other services for the homeless! http://www.pinestreetinn.org/
Our Wonderful H&H FYSOPERs —
We hope these next four years bring you everything you
want and we are so excited you chose to begin your
Boston University “Safari” with FYSOP. The next four
years will certainly be an adventure as you enjoy the
concrete jungle that is Boston. You are now tied to the
BU Circle of Life as you have already begun to make your
mark with the service you have done this week. Thank
you so much for all your dedication and hard work!
30
Bridge Over Troubled Waters - Mentor homeless teens working to earn their GEDs! http://www.bridgeotw.org
Boston University Habitat For Humanity -
Build houses for those in need and make new friends at BU!
http://people.bu.edu/habitat/
Birthday Wishes -
Help give a homeless child an incredible birthday! http://www.birthdaywishes.org
Women’s Lunch Place -
Provide meals in a positive atmosphere for homeless women! http://www.womenslunchplace.org/
JAMBO JAMBO JAMBO JAMBO from your H&H Safari Leaders!
Hey young FYSOPers!!
Welcome to the concrete jungle of
Boston. You are about to embark on the
most exciting journey of your life, and it
all begins here with FYSOP. The Pride
Lands, better known as Boston
University, have been deserted for
months now and we’ve been anxiously
awaiting your arrival.
This new home of yours is a special place, and we’re so proud
of you for dedicating your last week of summer to making it a
better home for all of us. Enjoy yourself this week as you will
be doing admirable service, getting acclimated to BU and
Boston, and meeting exceptional people.
There is more to see than can ever be seen, more to do than
can ever be done - but this week will have a lasting impact not
only on the city and the people you meet, but on you. You are
bound to have many eye-opening experiences and the best
way to take them in is with an open mind and heart.
Learn as much as you can not only about the issue area, but
also about yourself. Have a blast – FYSOP is an
incredible experience and we can’t wait to share it with you!
After all, everyone has a place in the Circle of Life, and we
hope that as you help others find their places, you too will
find yours.
Feelin’ the H&H love tonight,
Chelsey Kaufman & Christine Bolton
FYSOP21 Homelessness & Housing Coordinators 3
4
C H T S I R
C
E N I
H E L S Y E
Christine Bolton, a junior in SMG, hails from the riveting one-light town of
Stow, MA!!! As a former apple orchard employee, she now has an
impressive knowledge of all things apple-
related. She spends most of her free time
running, concert-going and learning about
lindy hop (a really fun kind of swing dancing
— YouTube it!). Among her other favorite
things are summer thunderstorms, avocados,
manatees and Daft Punk. She’s also afraid of
movie theatres? Yeah it’s weird. If you ask
nicely she will play “Piano Man” on the
harmonica for you, but don't ask for any other
songs because that's the only one she knows. Enjoy this week and enjoy
your college years—try new things, find your niche, and learn everything
you possibly can about yourself! It’s gonna be awesome. GET EXCITED!
Helloooo H&H FYSOPers! I’m Chelsey Kaufman from Massapequa, NY - a
lovely little suburb outside of New York City. While I love New York City,
Boston stole my heart. If I am not running on the
Esplanade, wandering around the city, or shopping
on Newbury Street, I am in class. I am a senior in
Sargent College majoring in Occupational Therapy.
I LOVE hockey, baseball, and football, baking
cupcakes, anything with peanut butter, and I have
a slight obsession with weddings. I have seen
every single episode of Boy Meets World, Full
House, and Saved by The Bell and October is my
absolute favorite month of the year. As you begin
these next four years of your life - be open-minded,
take chances and always be true to who you are.
The next four years are what you make them -
enjoy them to the fullest! Welcome to Boston!
C O R O T A N I D R O S
E M T E U O Y R
29
Hiv/aidsHiv/aidsHiv/aidsHiv/aids
Human rightsHuman rightsHuman rightsHuman rights
hungerhungerhungerhunger
Urban renewalUrban renewalUrban renewalUrban renewal
Gender focusGender focusGender focusGender focus
Rising urban homelessness is caused in part by a shortage of
low-cost housing. This shortage might be caused by
gentrification (converting run-down housing into upscale
apartments), slum lording (buying property and renting it until
it falls apart) or warehousing (real estate investors buy property
and allow it to sit idle in anticipation of gentrification.
The U.S. Conference of Mayors 2007 Status Report on Hunger
and Homelessness reported that the major causes of hunger in
the surveyed cities are poverty, unemployment and high housing
costs. The hunger crisis is exacerbated by the recent spike in
foreclosures, the increased cost of living in general and increased
cost of food.
Criminalization of homelessness has been on the rise in cities
over the past 25 years. This trend includes measures that target
homeless people by making it illegal to perform life-sustaining
activities in public, including prohibitions on sleeping/camping,
eating, sitting, and begging in public spaces. There are often
criminal penalties for violation of these laws.
The National Alliance to End Homelessness estimates that 3.4
percent of homeless people were HIV-positive in 2006, compared
to 0.4 percent of adults and adolescents in the general
population. Since people living with HIV/AIDS are in greater
danger of losing their jobs due to discrimination or health-
related absences, up to half are at risk of becoming homeless.
In 2009 it was estimated by National Coalition for the Homeless
that 20 percent of homeless youth are LGBT (while the general
youth population is only 10 percent LGBT). Additionally, the
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force reports that 26 percent of
LGBT youth who came out to their parents/guardians were told
they must leave home.
28
F O P
F U S I N O
Y S
childrenchildrenchildrenchildren
disabilitiesdisabilitiesdisabilitiesdisabilities
environmentenvironmentenvironmentenvironment
elderselderselderselders
Children account for 39 percent of the homeless population (1.35
million of the 3.5 million homeless people in the U.S.)
Approximately 50 percent of these children are under the age of
five. Fewer than one in four homeless children will graduate
from high school.
In a 2008 survey performed by the U.S. Conference of Mayors,
25 cities were asked for the three largest causes of homelessness
in their communities. Mental illness was the third largest cause
of homelessness for single adults (mentioned by 48 percent of
cities). For homeless families, mental illness was mentioned by
12 percent of cities as one of the top 3 causes of homelessness.
Homeless people are among the most vulnerable to natural dis-
asters. Nearly all those made homeless by natural disasters in
the world—97.7 percent of the total—are from developing
countries. Since 1980, 138 million people in those countries have
been affected. The numbers are growing year by year.
Among the Sheltered Homeless Persons in 2008, 16.8 percent of
them were 51 and older according to the 2008 annual homeless
assessment report to Congress and 30.6 percent of the
individuals who stayed in emergency shelters for more than 180
days were 51 and older.
7
Monday, August 23rd 7:15-7:45 Meet your Groups! (Location: Marsh Plaza) Look for your Issue Area sign! 8:00-10:00 Opening Ceremonies (Location: GSU, Grand Ballroom) 10:00-10:45 Group ice-breakers (Location: Ziskind Lounge/Marsh Plaza)
Tuesday, August 24th 7:45-8:45 Breakfast (Location: SAC gym, next to the GSU) 9:00-10:00 Opening: FYSOP Fusion (Location: GSU, Grand Ballroom) 10:00-5:00Education Day Children Ed Day: (Guitar Center, COM101) Disabilities Ed Day: (GSU, East Enclosure/SAC Gym) Elders Ed Day: (GSU, BU Central) Environment Ed Day: (GSU, Room 224) Gender Focus Ed Day: (GSU, Conference Auditorium) HIV/AIDS Ed Day: (GSU, Terrace Lounge) H & H Ed Day: (CAS, Room B12) Human Rights Ed Day: (GSU, Howard Thurman Center) Hunger Ed Day: (GSU, East Enclosure) Urban Renewal Ed Day: (Law Auditorium, Guitar Center) Museum: (GSU, Ziskind Lounge) 11:00-2:00 Lunch (GSU, Union Court-staggered) Time will vary for Issue Areas 5:00-6:30 Dinner (Location: Warren or West Campus Dining Hall)
7:00 & on SOCIAL EVENTS TBD
Wednesday, August 25th 6:00-8:00 Breakfast (Location: SAC gym) 9:00-5:00 On-Site Service (Location: Out in Boston!) Lunch on Site 5:00-6:30 Dinner (Location: Warren or West Campus Dining Hall) 7:30-9:30 Program Night (Location: GSU, Grand Ballroom)
Thursday, August 26th 6:00-8:00 Breakfast (Location: SAC gym) 9:00-5:00 On-Site Service (Location: Out in Boston!) Lunch on Site 6:30-7:30 Dinner (Location: Warren or West Campus Dining Hall) 7:00 and on SOCIAL EVENTS TBD
Friday, August 27th
6:00-8:00 Breakfast (Location: SAC gym) 8:00-5:00 On-Site Service (Location: Out in Boston!) Lunch on Site 5:00-6:30 Dinner (Location: Warren or West Campus Dining Hall)
7:00-10:00 Closing Ceremonies (Location: TBD)
5
FYSOP 21 SCHEDULE
Alexa MauroAlexa MauroAlexa MauroAlexa Mauro
SMG/SHA 2012
Mount Laurel, NJ
Advice for Freshmen: Don’t limit yourself to
anything or create rules for yourself—it’s the only
time in your life when you don’t have to.
Biggest Pet Peeve: The word “panties.”
Most Embarrassing Moment: I was a pumpkin one
year for Halloween. When the bus came to pick me
up to go to school, I couldn’t fit on the bus. My mom
came outside and tried to squeeze me on, but it
didn’t work.
Adam WeaverAdam WeaverAdam WeaverAdam Weaver
SED 2013
Bethlehem, PA
Favorite Place in Boston: The Esplanade because
it’s really beautiful and fun to say.
Advice for Freshmen: Try everything. Expose
yourself to as many opportunities as possible and
take every chance that comes your way.
Biggest Pet Peeve: I am not a fan of people who
constantly shuffle their feet while walking rather
than actually picking their feet up.
Mary Beth PicarellaMary Beth PicarellaMary Beth PicarellaMary Beth Picarella
CAS 2011
Massapequa Park, NY
If You Could Live Anywhere: Paris! There really is
something magical about that city.
Favorite Place in Boston: Newbury Street, if there
is money in my bank account.
Advice for Freshmen: It’s okay to be undeclared
or switch majors. If you know what you want to
study, take some random classes anyway!
M E E T H T ! D R E H E
SLAMMIN’ SIMBAS
6
Many people don’t realize the barriers that homeless
people face which prevent them from escaping their
living conditions. The most common misconception
is that homeless people bring homelessness upon
themselves by choosing to be lazy and unemployed.
Negative stereotypes like this one prevent many
from having compassion toward the homeless.
-When encountering a homeless person in a safe environment, be
cordial and respond with kindness.
-Make eye contact, acknowledge them and give them respect.
-You can also offer to buy them something to eat, socks,
essentials, things like that (that way you won’t be wondering how
the money is spent).
-You aren’t obligated to respond in any way that makes you
uncomfortable, but if anything, homeless people just want to be
acknowledged and not ignored.
“For beautiful eyes, look for the good in
others; for beautiful lips, speak only words
of kindness; and for poise, walk with the
knowledge that you are never alone.”
— Audrey Hepburn
27
Advice for how to behave towards the homeless:Advice for how to behave towards the homeless:Advice for how to behave towards the homeless:Advice for how to behave towards the homeless:
Negative Perceptions Negative Perceptions Negative Perceptions Negative Perceptions Of Homeless People
26
MYTHS & FACTS
Myth: Homeless people don't work and get most Myth: Homeless people don't work and get most Myth: Homeless people don't work and get most Myth: Homeless people don't work and get most of their money from public assistance programs.of their money from public assistance programs.of their money from public assistance programs.of their money from public assistance programs.
Fact: “Homeless people do work, and a relatively small
percentage of them receive government assistance.
Additionally, a study done in Chicago revealed that 39
percent of homeless people that were interviewed had
worked for some time during the previous month.”
Myth: All homeless people are mentally ill or sub-Myth: All homeless people are mentally ill or sub-Myth: All homeless people are mentally ill or sub-Myth: All homeless people are mentally ill or sub-stance abusers.stance abusers.stance abusers.stance abusers.
Fact: “Around a quarter of homeless people are men-
tally ill, and about 40 percent are alcohol or substance
abusers, with around 15 percent suffering from both
mental illness and substance abuse. A study found that
between 20 percent and 25 percent of those homeless
people studied had at some time experienced severe
and disabling mental illnesses such as schizophrenia,
clinical depression and bipolar disorder. Another study
projected that 13 percent of homeless people are drug
abusers, and 38 percent of homeless people are
alcohol abusers (as opposed to 10 percent of the
general population). The Center for Mental Health
Services states that between 10 and 20 percent of
homeless people suffer co-occurring severe mental
and substance use disorders.”
From National Health Care for the Homeless Council
http://www.nhchc.org/
Joe ColomboJoe ColomboJoe ColomboJoe Colombo
SED 2011
Valhalla, NY
Favorite Place in Boston: The Commons when it’s
warm outside.
Biggest Pet Peeve: Bad lighting and sound at
events.
Best BU Memory: Being in D.C. for the
winning of the hockey National Championship.
Sarah LattrellSarah LattrellSarah LattrellSarah Lattrell
CAS/COM 2012
West Newbury, MA
Advice for Freshmen: Get involved, especially with
the CSC! BU is what you make of it so do what you
love and you will love it here!
Greatest Talent: Giving piggyback rides! I'm really
good at it.
Biggest Pet Peeve: I hate it when people cut their
nails near me.
Samantha GordonSamantha GordonSamantha GordonSamantha Gordon
COM 2012
Fair Lawn, NJ
Favorite Place in Boston: Downtown Boston—you
get Boston Commons and some really fun shopping.
Advice for Freshmen: Go to SPLASH and figure out
what you really enjoy doing. Join the club you find
most intriguing and meet people that way. You can’t
just expect people to come to you!
Best BU Memory: Ice skating at Agganis Arena
when BU won the Men’s Ice Hockey Championship
M E E T T H E H E R D !
TENACIOUS TIMONS
7
Suchie RavindranSuchie RavindranSuchie RavindranSuchie Ravindran
SAR 2012
Baltimore, MD
Advice for Freshmen: Try something you’ve
never tried before!
Role Model: My parents.
Biggest Pet Peeve: Soup slurping.
What Disney character would you be? Genie
Matt MesserMatt MesserMatt MesserMatt Messer
SMG 2012
Briarcliff Manor, NY
If You Could Live Anywhere: Hong Kong, just
to say I did and I love rice.
Advice for Freshmen: Be as social as possible,
meet people, join clubs, be active in the CSC,
explore Boston!
Best BU Memory: ASB Cumby when 15 people
tried to sleep in the six person tent.
Rachel SzostakRachel SzostakRachel SzostakRachel Szostak
SMG 2011
Northampton, MA
Favorite Place in Boston: Quincy Market
Best BU Memory: FYSOP!
Biggest Pet Peeve: Messes
Favorite Movie: Sixteen Candles
T E H T E E M D R E H !
NOTORIOUS NALAS
8 25
MYTHS & FACTS
Myth: Homeless people commit more violent Myth: Homeless people commit more violent Myth: Homeless people commit more violent Myth: Homeless people commit more violent crimes than housed people.crimes than housed people.crimes than housed people.crimes than housed people.
Fact: “Dr. Pamela Fischer, of Johns Hopkins University,
studied the 1983 arrest records in Baltimore and found
that although homeless people were more likely to
commit non-violent crimes, they were actually less
likely to commit violent crimes against person or
property.”
Myth: Homeless people are a fixed population Myth: Homeless people are a fixed population Myth: Homeless people are a fixed population Myth: Homeless people are a fixed population who are usually homeless for long periods of time.who are usually homeless for long periods of time.who are usually homeless for long periods of time.who are usually homeless for long periods of time.
Fact: “The homeless population is quite diverse in
terms of their length of homelessness and the number
of times they cycle in and out of homelessness. Re-
search on the length of homelessness states that 40
percent of homeless people have been homeless less
than six months, and that 70 percent of homeless peo-
ple have been homeless less than two years.”
Myth: Homeless people are mostly single men.Myth: Homeless people are mostly single men.Myth: Homeless people are mostly single men.Myth: Homeless people are mostly single men.
Fact: “Families constitute a large and growing
percentage of the homeless population. In fact, a
recent study found the families comprise 38 percent of
the urban homeless population. Other research finds
that homeless families comprise the majority of
homeless people in rural areas.”
From National Health Care for the Homeless Council
http://www.nhchc.org/
24
IN NUMBERS —
Homeless people are 3-6 times more likely to become ill
than housed people.
Homeless people are 3-4 times more likely to die than the
normal population.
Average life expectancy for homeless population is 42-52
years (compared to 78 years for normal population).
(NHCHC 2008)
People who are homeless
suffer from: heart disease,
liver disease, cancer,
kidney disease, skin
infections, pneumonia,
HIV/AIDS and
Tuberculosis. HIV/AIDS
and TB are nearly
impossible to control
because they require
routine treatment.
People living on the
streets are at risk for:
frostbite, immersion foot
and hypothermia
(hypothermia increases
risk of death from compli-
cations eightfold).
Health Complications of
Homelessness Alyssa PeltzerAlyssa PeltzerAlyssa PeltzerAlyssa Peltzer
SMG 2011
Edison, NJ
If You Could Live Anywhere : Spain—I love the
culture, the food, the sun, and of course, siestas.
Favorite Place in Boston: Trident Booksellers &
Cafe, a café with amazing food hidden inside a small
bookstore so you can read while you eat.
Advice for Freshmen: Try various spots around
campus to study, like the top of Stuvi I or II.
Paul BrownPaul BrownPaul BrownPaul Brown
ENG 2011
Norwalk, CT
Advice for Freshmen: Find a good place to study
away from your room.
What Disney Character Would You Be? My
favorite Disney movie is The Lion King, but I’m
going to say John Smith because of my dashing
good looks and rugged manliness.
Most Embarrassing Moment: In 4th grade I fell
off a swing which caught on my pocket and I was
left swinging with my pants around my ankles in
my tighty whiteys for the whole world to see.
Kiera Vinson (KiKi or Keeks)Kiera Vinson (KiKi or Keeks)Kiera Vinson (KiKi or Keeks)Kiera Vinson (KiKi or Keeks)
CAS 2013
Atlanta (aka HOTLANTA), Georgia
Greatest Talent: My ability to create the most random
and oddest noises in the world at any moment.
Favorite Place in Boston: Berry Freeze! It is a 5 star
world-renowned restaurant - at least to me. They
serve the best fro-yo on the planet. Trust me, I know.
Advice for Freshmen: Try something completely
new. Don’t hold back from exploring your interests.
D ! R E H T T E E M E H
MAJESTIC MUFASAS
9
Rachel WellfordRachel WellfordRachel WellfordRachel Wellford
COM 2012
Richmond, VA
If You Could Live Anywhere: Boston. I always
want to be back here when I’m gone.
Favorite Place in Boston: The Harbor, Public
Garden and Esplanade.
What Disney Character Would You Be? Jasmine,
nothing cooler than living Agrabah and magic
carpets.
James ShalhoubJames ShalhoubJames ShalhoubJames Shalhoub
SMG 2012
Chatham, NJ
If You Could Live Anywhere: New Jersey, but I bet
everybody says that.
Favorite Place in Boston: Beijing Café.
Advice to Freshmen: Be proactive about trying
different clubs and activities. There is a lot of
opportunity at BU and you might surprise yourself
doing something you never thought you'd like.
H ! H E T T E E M D R E
PROGRESSIVE PUMBAS
Emma WaltersEmma WaltersEmma WaltersEmma Walters
CAS 2013
Winslow, ME
Which Disney Character Would You Be? Alice
Most Embarrassing Moment: When I was 12, my
cousin and I got lost in IKEA which resulted in a “Code
99”: a shut-down of the ENTIRE store.
Best BU Memory: Getting 3rd place at the Quidditch
World Cup at Middlebury! GO BU QUIDDITCH!
10 23
OTHER BARRIERS TO HEALTH CARE — -Lack of knowledge about where to get treated
-Lack of transportation access
-Lack of identification
-Psychological barriers i.e. embarrassment,
nervousness about filling out forms/asking
questions, self-consciousness about appearance/
hygiene
THE VISCIOUS CYCLE — Poor health and inadequate health care are both causes and
effects of homelessness. Those without health insurance have
lower incomes and might not have the resources to pay for their
own health services. A family barely managing to make ends
meet may be at risk for homelessness if serious illness or injury
occurs because they might be forced to choose between paying
rent or hospital bills. Illness or disability can also prevent people
from coming in to work, resulting in lost income and eviction.
Health Care & Unemployment
Half of all personal bankruptcies in the US
are caused by health problems. (National Health Care for the Homeless Council 2008)
BARRIERS TO EMPLOYMENT —
-Limited access to education and training programs
-Competitive environment
-Challenging application process
-Mental/physical conditions (i.e. substance abuse)
-Incarceration
-Lack of access to technology or knowledge of computers
The homeless conundrum doesn’t end with employment...in
addition to the homeless population that can’t get jobs, 44 percent
of homeless people have jobs — but still can’t escape homelessness.
VETERANS COMPRISE ABOUT 1/3 OF THE
ADULT HOMELESS POPULATION
AND NEARLY 1/5 OF THE
TOTAL HOMELESS POPULATION.
WHAT SEEMS TO WORK:
-Community-based, non-profit, “veterans helping veterans” groups
-Transitional housing
-Camaraderie in a structured, substance-free environment with other
vets who are making progress
-Since government money is limited, must rely on community groups
to reach out and provide basic resources like housing,
employment and health care
WHAT HOMELESS VETS NEED:
-Secure, safe, clean housing
-Supportive environment free of
drugs and alcohol
-Coordinated effort: secure housing,
nutritional meals, basic healthcare,
substance abuse care and aftercare,
mental health counseling, personal
development and empowerment
-Guidance to obtain and sustain
employment
-45% need help finding a job, 37% need help finding housing
22
HOMELESS VETERANSHOMELESS VETERANSHOMELESS VETERANSHOMELESS VETERANS
Veterans often experience post-traumatic stress disorder
(PTSD or “shell shock”), a psychological condition associated
with severely traumatic events. PTSD often leaves victims
mentally crippled, detached from reality and suffering from
serious anxiety and emotional pain. Those who have been
affected may turn to substance abuse, which can leave them at
risk for homelessness especially when coupled with a lack of
support networks.
Missy GoldbergMissy GoldbergMissy GoldbergMissy Goldberg
CAS 2011
Circle Pines, MN
If You Could Live Anywhere : Chicago, because I
love the Cubs!
Advice for Freshmen: Join CSC programs! –
Especially Afterschool :)
Which Disney Character Would You Be? Belle,
because I like to read and I kind of look like her.
E H T T E E M ! D R E H
Karen BernabéKaren BernabéKaren BernabéKaren Bernabé
SAR 2011
Bronx, NY
If You Could Live Anywhere: Australia in order to
develop an Australian accent.
Advice for Freshmen: Don’t be afraid to be
yourself, people like making new friends.
Best BU Memory: Just having fun with friends,
watching movies, exploring the city and going to BU
hockey games!
David N. AbreuDavid N. AbreuDavid N. AbreuDavid N. Abreu
CAS 2013
Teaneck, NJ
If You Could Live Anywhere: Israel for the belly
dancers.
Favorite Place in Boston: The Massachusetts Ave.
Bridge at night.
Advice for Freshmen: Explore and find things to do
throughout the city.
RIGHTEOUS RAFIKIS
11
Margaret PurdyMargaret PurdyMargaret PurdyMargaret Purdy
CAS/COM 2012
Medford, OR
If You Could Live Anywhere: I'd stay in Boston.
Favorite Place in Boston: Fenway when baseball
season is coming.
Advice for Freshmen: Do FYSOP!!! But don't stop
there—continue joining clubs and organizations.
! E H E H T T E E M D R
Saikrishna KugabalasooriarSaikrishna KugabalasooriarSaikrishna KugabalasooriarSaikrishna Kugabalasooriar
CAS/SAR 2013
Burlington, MA
If You Could Live Anywhere: Canada so that I could
hang out with a friend who moved there after high
school.
Favorite Place in Boston: I love walking around the
City of Boston—particularly around Faneuil Hall and
the Aquarium.
What Disney Character Would You Be? I would
like to be Mufasa - he is so powerful and fierce but
also benevolent and wise.
ZEALOUS ZAZUS
Rosie MongeauRosie MongeauRosie MongeauRosie Mongeau
COM 2013
Chelmsford, MA
Advice for Freshmen: Calm down, you’re already
here.
Best BU Memory: Alternative Spring Break in
Macon, GA!
Greatest Talent: Memorizing TV quotes and then
relating them to everyday life.
12 21
Instability: Having no
permanent address makes it
virtually impossible to
attend school, obtain
employment, secure food
and shelter, and survive.
Mental Disorders: likely to
suffer from anxiety,
depression, posttraumatic
stress disorder, and suicide
due to the exposure to
violence while living on
their own.
Juvenile Justice System:
Homeless youth are
frequently arrested for
nuisance crimes like
loitering and trespassing.
Substance Abuse: More
likely to use and abuse
drugs, and to engage in
other dangerous and
illegal behaviors.
TEENSTEENSTEENSTEENS Homeless teens, many of which are runaways or considered “at
risk,” are left with very few options to escape living on the streets.
They often feel uncomfortable and out of place in most of Boston’s
homeless shelters, which are geared toward the child, adult or
elderly population. The situation may seem inescapable to them,
and many move into adulthood without education or any prospects
for employment.
Homeless young adults have
increased dramatically over
the past two years.
What are some of the health
problems homeless children face?
• Lower birth weights and
increased risks
• Malnutrition; Lack of exercise
and recreation
• Exposure to lead poisoning
and other toxins
• Increased risk for tooth decay
• Increased risk for mental
health problems due to high
levels of stress and trauma they experience
Education Obstacles:
• Proficiency rates for homeless children in reading and
math fall sixteen percent lower on average.
• Less than one in four homeless children graduates from
high school.
• Poor general health are all endemic conditions of poverty
and can result in different educational outcomes between
poor children and their non-poor peers.
• Regular attendance - 87 percent of homeless youth are in
school but only 77 percent attend regularly
• Homeless children are:
...NINE times more likely to repeat a grade
…FOUR times more likely to drop out of school
…THREE times more likely to be put in Special Ed
20
HOMELESSNESS & CHILDREN
3.5 million people in the United States will be homeless tonight...
...1.35 million are children.
13
Ed day info
Featured Movie: An episode from the TV Documentary Series 30 Days, by Morgan Spurlock (you may recognize him from Supersize Me). In the episode we’re showing, Morgan and his wife leave their luxurious lives behind and try living 30 days strictly on the minimum wage. The obstacles that they encounter reveal how easily someone might be forced into homelessness, especially when costly health problems arise. The episode aired in 2005 when the minimum hourly wage in the U.S. was $5.15 (only 5 years ago!). That figure has since increased, but many still face the same kinds of adversities today as they struggle to just barely making ends meet.
Faces of Homelessness: A panel from National Coalition for the Homeless. Their presentation will feature a panel of speak-ers from Washington DC and Boston who have had personal experiences with home-lessness. The National Coalition for the Homeless is a national network of activists and advocates dedicated to ending homelessness as well as meeting the short-term needs of the homeless. Their Faces of Homelessness Speakers Bureau strives to
educate the public about homelessness and what can be done to pre-vent it. Many of those working with the NCH have had personal experiences with homelessness. The organization focuses on four main issue areas: housing justice, economic justice, health care jus-tice, and civil rights.
Casa Nueva Vida was founded in 1987 in the basement of a local church and is committed to helping homeless families find their own housing as well as helping them build necessary skills to stay out of homelessness and become active members of society. What should I bring/wear: Work gloves, close-toed shoes/sneakers, comfy clothes, water, sunscreen What will I be doing during FYSOP? Outdoor landscaping, yard work, hanging out with some kids.
14
Cradles to Crayons was founded in 2002 with the mission of providing children ages 0 to 12 with some of the basics of life, free of charge. They partner with organizations to connect communities that have such resources with communities that desperately need access to those resources. What should I bring/wear: Wear comfortable clothing and close-toed shoes as you will be on your feet for the day. What will I be doing during FYSOP? Sorting through toys and clothing and helping to assemble bags of items to be donated.
S E T I S
Casa Nueva Vida http://www.casanuevavida.org/
Cradles to Crayons http://www.cradlestocrayons.org/
Who is Homeless?
Vets comprise
1/3 of the adult
homeless
population (and
about 1/5 of the
total).
About 1.7
million people
under 18 will
experience
homelessness
each year.
Children account
for 39% of the
U.S. homeless
population; 50%
are under age 5.
What is Homelessness?
19
Homelessness is defined by the U.S. Department
of Housing and Urban Development as an
individual that… -lacks a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence
-has a primary nighttime residence that is a supervised
publicly or privately operated shelter designed to provide
temporary living accommodations (including welfare
hotels, congregate shelters and transitional housing for
the mentally ill), an institution that provides a temporary
residence for individuals intended to be institutionalized,
or a public/private place not designed for, or ordinarily
used as, regular sleeping accommodations.
GROUP SITE SCHEDULE
AUGUST
25th
AUGUST
26th
AUGUST
27th
Slammin’
Simbas
Casa Nueva
Vida
Habitat for
Humanity
Cradles to
Crayons
Majestic
Mufasas
Habitat for
Humanity
Serving
Ourselves
Farm
Haley
House
Tenacious
Timons
Cradles To
Crayons
Habitat for
Humanity
Casa Nueva
Vida
Zealous
Zazus
Serving
Ourselves
Farm
Margaret
Fuller House
Habitat for
Humanity
Notorious
Nalas
Just—A —Start
Corporation
Cradles To
Crayons
Habitat for
Humanity
Righteous
Rafikis
Red Sox Home
Base
Foundation
Just—A—Start
Corporation
Serving
Ourselves
Farm
Progressive
Pumbas
Habitat for
Humanity
Casa Nueva
Vida
Just—A—Start
Corporation
18 15
The Haley House started in 1966 and has expanded into a full service soup kitchen. Haley House serves to support people in their move toward economic independence and meaningful lives. What should I bring/wear: Closed toed shoes/sneakers and comfortable clothing. What will I be doing during FYSOP? Preparing meals or assisting with any tasks needed on that particular day.
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lowell is a nonprofit organiza-tion that works to strengthen families and communities through affordable homeownership opportunities. HFHGL works to develop communities with people in need by building and renovating simple, decent, energy efficient, affordable homes. What should I bring/wear: Sneakers, comfortable clothing, water bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat. What will I be doing during FYSOP? Volunteers will be working on houses at a Habitat Build site.
S E T I S
Haley House http://www.haleyhouse.org/
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lowell
http://www.lowellhabitat.org/
16
Just-A-Start Corporation (JAS), established in 1971, is a non-profit community development corporation, which operates primarily in Cambridge. JAS focuses on three major program activities for the benefit of low- and moderate-income people: the stabilization of occupied housing, education/training/placement, and the development of affordable housing. What should I bring/wear: Sneakers, comfy clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle What will I be doing during FYSOP? Working with the YouthBuild program alongside Just - A - Start students to help build an affordable housing unit.
The Margaret Fuller House works to strengthen and empower youth, families and community residents. They work to address the economic, social and political inequities that shape the lives and futures of residents. What should I bring/wear: Sneakers, comfortable clothing, water bottle What will I be doing during FYSOP? Working in the pantry, painting projects, doing chores around the house and maybe hanging out with some kids!
S E T I S
Margaret Fuller House http://www.margaretfullerhouse.org/
Just—A—Start Corporation http://www.justastart.org/
Serving Ourselves Farm is a 2.5 acre certified organic vegetable operation. It serves as a vocational program for homeless men and women for the Long Island Shelter in the Boston Harbor. Sixty percent of the food grown goes directly to the shelter kitchen.
What should I bring/wear: Sneakers, comfy clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle What will I be doing during FYSOP? Farming activities i.e. weeding, planting, and harvesting. The produce will be donated to a local homeless shelter. 17
Red Sox Home Base Foundation: is a partnership between the Red Sox Foundation and Massachusetts General Hospital dedicated to improving the lives of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan and getting them back to “Home Base” What should I bring/wear: Sneakers, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle. What will I be doing during FYSOP? Selling 50/50 raffle tickets during the Red Sox game. All the proceeds will go to the Home Base Foundation.
S E T I S Red Sox Home Base
Foundation http://www.redsoxfoundation.org/
Serving Ourselves Farm http://www.fobh.org/the-farm--long-
island