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Giving More than Thanks

From our offices in downtown Saint Paul, we have a vibrant view, especially this time of year. Rice Park is dressed up in lights for the holiday season, an ice rink is constructed near Landmark Center, and the students from the nearby performing arts school display an energy that can be contagious, if not at times a little overwhelming.

It’s easy to catch the holiday spirit in Saint Paul.

It’s still a sobering time, though. Looking around at the people on the street, among the students and those of us going to our offices, there are so many walking around searching … for a job, for something to eat, even for somewhere to sleep. The spirit that seems to be contagious is elusive for others who are just trying to catch a break.

We work with organizations year-round who, on a daily basis, are trying to bring dignity and hope to people and families. Churches, hospitals, schools, and community agencies show us how deep and wide the needs are, and, more importantly, how little separates us from working to improve services and being recipients of those services.

Near our offices are two major social service agencies that help people find a little comfort in the harsh landscape of our economy. It’s a short walk that doesn’t require a lot of effort. On Tuesday (Nov. 22), a couple of us made that walk to deliver a donation collected in our office to one of the agencies to help them provide meals and groceries to men, women, families, and seniors who cannot afford food.

Like all professions, ours has taken a significant hit in recent years. Friends have lost jobs and people are struggling. Watching the crowds, walking amongst everyone on the streets, we know there is not much that separates us from travelling in the other’s footsteps. None of us are islands, and only together can we survive, both in our jobs and on the streets. We’re thankful that we have the partners we do that allow us to be successful, and we are thankful that we have the means to give something back. The donations may be small individually, but together with other’s donations, they can impact the lives of others greatly.

There are many worthy agencies throughout the Midwest who could use a little help this season, and we hope all who have the means to give something back will. In Saint Paul, a few of those agencies include the Dorothy Day Center, Union Gospel Mission, and Neighborhood House.

To all, have a wonderful Thanksgiving.