Lessons from Switchpoint and our community’s future
March of this year marked two years that I have been volunteering at Switchpoint. I can’t believe the time has passed so quickly and that I’ve learned so much. It’s very easy to stereotype those who find themselves in need of the care and opportunities that Switchpoint provides. It’s so easy to judge the folks as being unworthy of help because of some faults they possess, bad decisions made in life, or just general laziness. But that’s not what I’ve learned while volunteering.
I’ve learned that clients at Switchpoint come in all shapes and sizes — physically, mentally, and emotionally. The situations that put them there are as varied as are the people themselves. Their ability to find work is dependent on the abilities they have. Some, unfortunately, may never be able to find employment that provides a livable wage, but they deserve help.
My time has been spent volunteering in Switchpoint’s computer lab. Although many of the home’s clients are very computer savvy and comfortable using technology, I’ve also found that technology can be very challenging and even stressful for some. The more complicated technology becomes, the more frustrating and difficult that may be for them in the future as it may be for many of us. Technology is supposed to help and make things more convenient, but it’s certainly not doing that for many — and not just those who are Switchpoint clients. How many of us who live comfortable lives and are well educated struggle to keep up with the demands of new technology? Our kids and grandkids may get it, but perhaps not us.
I’ve also learned a lot about the staff. They are incredibly dedicated, hardworking folks who are passionate about making lives better for their clients. There’s a sense of fun about the place, too. You’d think that being a homeless shelter it might be dismal, but that is so far from the reality.
Although much has been achieved so far by the leaders and staff at Switchpoint, many challenges lie ahead that must be managed. My work with clients to secure housing and work taught me that transportation is a big problem. Many jobs are in Washington City and Hurricane, but clients with no transportation cannot get there. Switchpoint can only do so much. When public transportation to get people to their jobs is not available, homeless problems will persist. Public transportation in Washington County must be improved! More or better roads are not the answer for many.
I’ve learned a lot about myself, too. I’ve had to face my own biases about homelessness. I’ve learned that any of us can find ourselves in a situation that may cause loved ones or perhaps even ourselves to be faced with this difficult situation. We like to think it could never happen.
Finally, I’ve learned that everyone must be concerned about homelessness. I doubt it will ever be completely eradicated, at least not in my lifetime, but we must do something. We will all deal with it on one level or another so best to do what we can to help the situation. Will we end up another San Francisco where many rich citizens can’t abide having homeless housing nearby, or will we be a community that embraces the needs of our citizens and makes room for all?
The viewpoints expressed above are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of The Independent.
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