Strive For Greatness

Youth without Shelter - Strive for Greatness Grafitti

“Strive for Greatness”, isn’t this something we all hope to achieve?

Some have an easier journey than others, but the same goal still remains - how do we reach greatness? What does greatness mean and look like? What if we feel so far from this that it seems impossible?

I recently visited two Youth Shelters in Toronto, Ontario (Covenant House and Youth without Shelter - which is where the image of the art seen here was taken). This image spoke to me after having been given a tour of the facilities.

Possibility and even hope can seem elusive in situations where homelessness and absence from family is a reality in these kids lives. However, I am reminded that in the harshest circumstances greatness can emerge - think of the blade of grass that pushes its way through the concrete to find light.

So many people whom we honour as “great” faced hardships, were tested and came out scarred but resilient and capable of not only greatness, but greatness marked by compassion, empathy and community mindedness. They have taken their circumstance and transformed it into strength, beauty and possibility. It doesn’t define them, but it helped mold them, out of immense pressure something new emerges, something/someone incredibly beautiful. It takes special people to see that beauty and help bring it out, encourage it and give it a place - when others may look and see a mess, these individuals see greatness.

Youth Shelters aren’t simply a place to sleep, they exist to help youth ignite their potential and reclaim their lives. They educate and advocate for long-term change to improve the lives of vulnerable youth. This includes influencing public policy, leading awareness and prevention programs and continually building and sharing our knowledge.

More than a place to stay, these shelters provide life-changing care with unconditional love and respect. They meet youth’s immediate needs and then work together with them to achieve their future goals. They offer housing options, health and well-being support, training and skill development, and ongoing care once youth move into the community. They help youth stay in school, prepare for the workforce and find employment.

I am a Mom of 4 teenage boys ranging from 15-22, life has not always been easy. I think of the amazing patience, love and sacrifice the volunteers and staff make everyday to give these amazing youth a new perspective and chance at greatness.

As we rush into the busyness of the holiday season, take a moment and stop to think about the many teens who are in these shelters estranged from family - maybe its simply a prayer, or maybe there is a way you can show love in a tangible way this year.

Check out these organizations or find a shelter closer to you and consider partnering with them to help them continue their life-changing work.

Youth without Shelter - https://www.yws.on.ca/how-to-help/

Covenant House - https://covenanthousetoronto.ca/how-to-help/

Much Care, until next blog
Cheryl Haskett
CEO, Udderly Ridiculous