Advocacy
The Advocacy Program
The goal of the Advocacy Program is to provide friendly and practical support to our guests. Through this support it is hoped that guests will gain self-empowerment and feel a sense of community here at Loaves & Fishes.
What does an advocate do?
To advocate is to understand another person’s position/situation, to take their side and to argue for their need from their perspective. It includes listening, assessing needs, making referrals/phone calls, meeting with local agency staff, accompanying a guest to an appointment, etc. Advocates act as a friend who can listen with compassion and help guide someone to resources in the community.
Advocates are available to help guests during mealtimes and can meet with guests outside of Loaves & Fishes.
Who are the Loaves & Fishes advocates?
The Advocacy Coordinator, Stephanie Abrahams, is the principal advocate for Loaves & Fishes guests. The Executive Director and Kitchen Managers also act as advocates.
Can I become a volunteer advocate?
Loaves & Fishes facilitates training sessions for you to learn listening skills and to become acquainted with local agency resources. After this training you can become a valuable volunteer by listening to guests and offering referrals. These volunteers are not identified as advocates.
Someone showing special interest and ability in providing advocacy might receive further training (after appropriate screening) by the Advocacy Coordinator, and only then may be identified as a volunteer advocate.
If you have interest and skills in advocacy, please contact:
Maggie Whitehead, Volunteer Coordinator
loaves@loaves.org (preferred)
272-5457
Stephanie Abrahams, Advocacy Coordinator, will contact you.
Are volunteers needed to simply visit with guests?
Yes. As we nurture a community of people who care for one another, it is important that we visit with our guests and listen to their stories. Through compassionate listening, we can share another’s sorrows and joys. Our doors are open to all for any meal, and we encourage you come and enjoy some good food and visit with guests.
“One friend, one person who is truly understanding, who takes the trouble to listen to us as we consider our problems, can change our whole outlook on the world.” Dr. Elton Mayo