Tag Archives: Street Sense

Day 292: Kerry

Day 292-2As a board member of a local nonprofit, I occasionally meet with potential funders. I recently had the pleasure of meeting a board member from a family foundation that was interested in learning more about Street Sense, an organization I have been supporting for several years. I wanted to drop Kerry a note to thank her for taking time to meet with us and learn more about the incredible work that Street Sense is doing in Washington, D.C.

Day 292

Kerry,

It was wonderful to meet with you last Wednesday and share some of the work that Street Sense is doing to change the lives of men and women experiencing homelessness. It’s been one of the most inspiring organizations I have ever had the opportunity to work with. Please feel free to contact me if I can help in any way.

Sincerely,
Reed Sandridge

Day 275: Brian from McClellan’s Retreat

Last night was the celebration of the twelfth anniversary of the founding of Street Sense, a nonprofit that I support. Street Sense is one of the most innovative organizations in helping men and women experiencing homelessness get training and find employment in the area of media and the arts.

The evening was spectacular, but it would not have been possible without the support of several organizations. I went to establishments that I regularly frequent and asked them if they would support this event. It was touching how generous the organizations were. Brian is the manager at one of DC’s best cocktail bars which happens to be just a stone’s throw away from my door step. McClellan’s Retreat donated a really cool package for four people to learn how to make three quintessential cocktails – and they get to drink them too!

Thanks to Brian and the entire team at McClellan’s Retreat!

Day 275

Brian,

I wanted to send you a proper thank-you for your generous contribution to the Street Sense gala – it was an inspiring evening! It’s incredible how those experiencing homelessness can regain their lives, get back into housing, contribute to society, etc. when given the proper support and encouragement.

This is our biggest fundraiser and I appreciate you and McClellan’s Retreat helping to make it a success!

Reed

Day 260: Gary Minter

In a recent issue of Street Sense, I came across an open letter to the U.S. Post Office from a man named Gary Minter. He’s struggled with housing and doesn’t have a permanent address. Even using shelters and other agencies to receive mail for him causes challenges. Gary decided to write the post office and ask for their help to fix problems that anyone dealing with homelessness faces.

He has a “general delivery” address in Las Vegas where he is living right now – he used to be here in Washington, DC. I hope my letter gets to him.

Day260

Dear Gary,

I read your open letter in Street Sense about the unique challenges that you and other men and women experiencing homelessness face. In essence you are being discriminated against because you don’t have a permanent address.

I’m sure a solution to these issues exists, but will take time. Thank you for speaking out and trying to improve the system. Your letter has inspired me to cut your letter out of the paper and mail it to Megan Brennan, the Postmaster General.

I hope that Las Vegas is treating you well.

Good luck to you,
Reed Sandridge

P.S. Here are a few dollars – hopefully it helps.

 

Day 230: Paulina

Day 230Paulina is an old neighbor, well she’s not old, I mean she used to be my neighbor until she abandoned us all. Now I rarely see her – and that’s too bad as she’s one of those people you love to be around.

Paulina made a very thoughtful donation to an organization I support and I wanted to let her know how much her generous gift means to me. Gracias Paulina!

Day 230-2

Paulina,

This is way overdue, but thank you for generously donating to Street Sense back in June. Your donation was matched 100% by me – doubling the impact of your gift! Muchisimas gracias! Let’s get together soon.

Abrazos!
Reed

Day 227: Max & Elaine

Max is a fellow member of the Board of Directors of Street Sense and has been a huge supporter of the organization. I took a moment today to write him and his wife to let them know how much it means to me and the other Board members.

Day 227

Dear Max and Elaine,

I know that Brian thanks you for your strong support of Street Sense, but as the Development Chair I wanted you to know how much your generous support means to me and of course the men and women we serve. Your leadership doesn’t go unnoticed. Thank you!

I look forward to seeing you at the Gala.

With gratitude,
Reed