The Importance of Spreading the Word

​By Phil Katz

Upon retiring, I knew that I wanted to give back. I knew I wanted to do something that fit my strengths and the Digital Program Coordinator VISTA position at Chicago HOPES for Kids just made sense. What I was not expecting, however, was that I would start my time at Chicago HOPES for Kids during the midst of e-learning. Immediately, I knew our students would face barriers with access to technology and overall support. However, this article is not about the digital divide (check out our instagram if you’re interested in learning more about that!), but instead, a call to action for those that have the opportunity to increase awareness around a student population that is oftentimes overlooked.


Coming from the business world, I didn’t realize just how many students are living in homeless shelters - let alone experiencing homelessness overall. As I talked about my experience with my network, I quickly realized that those around me were largely unaware of this student experience as well. This got me thinking about how we, as people who are deeply invested in education, can spread the word so that students experiencing homelessness can have access to an education that is equitable and thereby work to close the opportunity gap for our students. 


Sometimes the hardest part about having these conversations is figuring out where to start. We gathered some tips to make it easier for you to begin having these conversations with people in your network, such as friends, family, or colleagues. 

• Start by sharing a personal experience or memory. 
  • Share a story that relates to your own privilege. 
• Introduce facts and numbers, if you know them. Some people find statistics help make the concept more tangible.
  • Learn about the reasons behind these numbers! These reasons are often systemic issues within society. 
• You can share what you have learned, such as:
  • People first language: saying “children experiencing homelessness” and why that is important.
  • Explain why it’s important that we work together with shelter partners, parents, and children. 
  • Explain why stereotypes are harmful.

• Do not be accusatory in your language, we want to bring people in not push away.

• Leave room for questions and also ask questions! 
  • Asking questions and giving people the space to explain their thoughts can lead to teachable moments. 
• Provide tangible actions they can do to make a positive impact:
  • Donate for Giving Tuesday.
  • Mutual aid actions: Brave Space Alliance Winter Coat Drive, La Casa Norte Winter Gear Drive, and other local drives.
    
    
    

Not having knowledge leads to un-knowledgeable decision making. When people are aware of the needs of students experiencing homelessness, especially during a time when their wealthier peers are able to access private tutors, better technology, and additional factors that are imperative to optimal e-learning experiences, they are able to be better advocates. Whether it be through advocating for policies, donating to organizations that support this work, or even just by spreading the word, as members of the Chicago HOPES for Kids network, it is our responsibility to ensure that those conversations are being had - especially with those that may never have a reason to think about students experiencing homelessness otherwise