tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50846559829863698012023-11-16T01:34:45.030-05:00My View from the Men's ShelterW. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-63943591061445117042013-11-16T09:03:00.000-05:002013-11-16T09:03:06.819-05:00We're Making Some Cool Changes to My BlogYou've probably noticed this blog hasn't been updated in a while. Partly that's because I got slack and partly because we've been really thinking hard about our best way to communicate all that's going on at the Men's Shelter. So, this is the last post on <em>My View from the Men's Shelter</em>. This blog site will go offline very soon. But don't worry, a new blog (haven't decided on the title yet) will appear in early 2014 along with the discipline to keep it current. Also look for MSC to begin using more video updates on our website -short clips to keep you informed and as passionate about our mission as I am. Our website - <a href="http://www.mensshelterofcharlotte/">www.MensShelterofCharlotte</a> - isn't going anywhere so you can stay informed by visiting us online. Thanks for reading and look for my new blog after the holidays.<br />
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CarsonW. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-4761105343290089922013-06-06T17:11:00.000-04:002013-06-06T17:11:00.588-04:00Celbrating PartnershipYesterday, June 5, the Men's Shelter of Charlotte and Crisis Assistance Ministry announced a deepening of our already strong partnership. MSC is enlisting CAM's help in managing our clothing donations used for the men we serve. By doing so, both agencies do what we do best. The men we still have their basic needs, maybe even better than before. May seem like a small thing, but allowing our agencies to play to our strengths allows us all to better care for vulnerable citizens in our community. Isn't that the epitome of partnership regardless of the scope or scale? Thanks CAM for helping MSC be a better community provider!<br />
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W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-11797369982661685102012-12-28T08:02:00.000-05:002012-12-28T08:02:12.981-05:00A Must ReadJust finished a new book by Tavis Smiley and Cornel West, <em>The Rich and the Rest of Us: A Poverty Manifesto</em>. I highly recommend this read to anyone wanting to gain a deeper understanding of poverty in America and how it has been reshaped, not in a good way, since the Great Recession. Their concept of a Universal Food Delivery System really resonated with me. Whether or not you agree with the author's political leanings, this book certainly makes you think!W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-78868646303961841812012-12-27T10:41:00.000-05:002012-12-27T10:41:31.864-05:00Facing the Fiscal CliffFor many the impending fiscal cliff isn't all that important. That's because so many of our most vulnerable citizens went off the cliff years ago. The recession that came about in 2008 continues to push people off the cliff. Failed mental health reform continues to push people over the cliff. Inadequate discharge planning for people coming out of prison continues to push people off the cliff. For those who already fell, climbing back up the cliff is often an impossible feat when facing such daunting obstacles as high unemployment, lack of jobs, low paying jobs, and not enough community support. How can one expect not to fall off the cliff when they're teetering on the edge with no safety harness? How can one climb back out of despair when they face an impenetrable mountain without even a rope? These are hard questions made harder by the realization that we're talking about actual human beings - not statistics but parents, teachers, bus drivers, waitresses, and children. <br />
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But all is not hopeless. In Charlotte, we have an incredible faith community. We have strong civic and philanthropic leadership. We have a strong network of non-profits that work together behind the scenes more than anyone will ever know. I think we'll hit our stride in 2013. I'm optimistic about our collective ability to solve the challenges our community faces. At the very least, I believe that the last several years have taught us how to be prepared for the cliff. We all know we have to be in it together because for our community to succeed those among us struggling the most have to be given an opportunity to succeed as well.<br />
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W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-45090366152854422202012-11-07T17:53:00.000-05:002012-11-07T17:53:01.947-05:00A Roof Raising "Thanks" to St. John's Episcopal ChurchWhen John Patrick and his friends at St. John's learned that men entering our Statesville Avenue Campus shelter had to sometimes wait in the rain because there was no roof over our entrance, they felt the need to mobilize and do something. Today there is a beautiful new roof over that entrance and the men could not be more appreciative! John told me he was partly inspired by the book <em>October Sky</em> to persevere and make this project come to life. Curious, I read the book myself and can understand his determination.<br />
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Many thanks to the entire Outreach Committee from St. John's Episcopal Church for this new roof. They stewarded the project from inspiration, to design, to fundraising, to installation. Most important, they showed the homeless men we serve their concern not only for the men's well being when the weather is bad, but also concern for their dignity. You have inspired me in the process.<br />
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Thank you!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2c3YeppM9fbKnCBdd8G9WEc1F_G5SW5DzIaYsW2F4qHLlDbYhEHxkSyb0BdrmjX59O-yFyZvonSIBbc-Qm9w5RNFlmEb9HgCwTueRNv0ypUBLjay8MVsT2AhKbylbt5X7V_354AXUow/s1600/roof+pic+1+Statesville.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2c3YeppM9fbKnCBdd8G9WEc1F_G5SW5DzIaYsW2F4qHLlDbYhEHxkSyb0BdrmjX59O-yFyZvonSIBbc-Qm9w5RNFlmEb9HgCwTueRNv0ypUBLjay8MVsT2AhKbylbt5X7V_354AXUow/s320/roof+pic+1+Statesville.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Entrance Roof at MSC's Statesville Avenue Shelter</td></tr>
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W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-56154051275310187252012-09-12T14:20:00.001-04:002012-09-12T14:20:48.346-04:00A Wallet in Every PocketYou may have seen the article in Monday's Observer about the Men's Shelter of Charlotte's new Housing Resource Center and our expectations to move 400 men from the shelter into housing this year. As we've worked with men to get their identification, collect important papers, and keep up with so many other things, we've noticed that very few of our guests have wallets. Imagine trying to keep your driver's license or employee id badge from falling apart if your only option is to stuff it into your pocket. You can help. Donate your used wallet to the Men's Shelter and we'll make sure it goes to a homeless man who has no other means for organizing his pockets. It's easy, just drop it off at our Tryon Street campus at 1210 N. Tryon Street. This could also be a great project for a school class or other youth group to undertake. As we move 8 men per week out of the shelter and into their own place this year, we want to make sure there is a wallet in every pocket. Thanks!W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-68911113269251097942012-08-21T13:42:00.000-04:002012-08-21T13:42:10.194-04:00RumorsLately, I've heard a number of rumors about the Men's Shelter. I'd like to address the ones I've heard.<br />
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Rumor: The Men's Shelter will close for the DNC. <br />
Fact: Both of our campuses, Tryon Street and Statesville Ave, will be open and oeprate as we normally do.<br />
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Rumor: Men can now only stay 20 days at the Men's Shelter and then have to leave.<br />
Fact: We do not impose time limits on how long someone can access our shelter as long as he is homeless.<br />
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Rumor: DNC protestors may use the shelter as a free place to stay during the convention.<br />
Fact: Not sure why someone might try this, but our intake screening process ensures that only homeless men are allowed to stay in the shelter.<br />
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Rumor: The Men's Shelter has a new rule that you have to prove you've been in Charlotte for at least two weeks to be able to stay in the shelter.<br />
Fact: The Men's Shelter is for homeless men from our community, and by community we mean Charlotte and Mecklenburg County (as well as consideration given to areas within the United Way of Central Carolinas service region when no other shelters exist). For many years we have stated that men must be from our community, so this is not new. We have recently restated our requirement asking men where they have been the previous two weeks and, if they have not been in our community for at least two weeks they are not eligible. Our staff always has flexibility with the requirement if the situation warrants. We are at or near capacity every night just serving homeless men from our community. We still do not require photo identification to enter the shelter because many homeless men have lost their identification.<br />
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Rumor: Men must leave the shelter every morning and not return until night.<br />
Fact: Our Statesville Avenue campus is only open at night and men are not allowed to remain on property during the day. We provide many supportive services on our Tryon Street campus during the day and any man who is engaged in those services is welcome to remain on campus. All of the men we serve are invited on campus for lunch each day and the campus remains open to all men on weekend days and holidays. During the week, men who should be seeking employment or attending to other personal needs or who are not interested in accepting services are asked to leave campus each morning about 8am until lunch and then after lunch until afternoon check-in (just a few hours in total). Hanging out at the shelter all day, every day is not good for anyone.<br />
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I have no idea how these rumors get started or why. They do tend to create anxiety and tension for the men we serve, so we do our best to share information with the men in our shelters and to post information for everyone on our website, <a href="http://www.mensshelterofcharlotte.org/">www.MensShelterofCharlotte.org</a>. We're always glad when our guests, our volunteers, or others in the public brings these rumors to our attention. W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-17339935842320706452012-07-04T10:52:00.001-04:002012-07-04T10:52:12.860-04:00Happy 4th of JulyHaving majored in history, I always find myself reflecting on the true meaning of July 4th. After all, it's about celebrating the birth of our country. I know on my own birthdays I tend to think about what I've accomplished in life, what I am thankful for, and memories of past birthdays - happy and sad. There is so much positive to celebrate this 4th of July. We live in a truly free democracy. We are a nation of prosperity, ingenuity, and entrepreneurs. Others look to our nation for inspiration and guidance. America is truly a wonderful country!<br />
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My birthday wish for our nation this year is simple, I wish us the fortitude to tackle our nation's problems at home - homelessness, education, unemployment, and poverty - with the same headstrong, purse strong, and collective determination to prevail that our nation, for so long, has pursued in other parts of the world.<br />
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Happy Birthday America!W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-72135048753489372912012-04-04T11:26:00.000-04:002012-04-04T11:26:15.158-04:00It's All About the EquationLast week, during our 4th Annual Community Partnership Breakfast, I shared MSC's equation for ending homelessness:<br />
<h3>INCOME + HOUSING + SUPPORT = END TO HOMELESSNESS</h3>Yes, this is a bit of an oversimplification of the strategies needed to help someone overcome their homeless experience. But, it's also that straightforward. We have to help the men accessing our emergency shelters determine a path towards income which can then lead to housing. Once housed, we know that without an appropriate level of support, failure is likely, so creating a support network is critical. The cool thing about this equation is that it works. So far this year, MSC has helped about 200 men move to more appropriate housing. Now you know how we did it.W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-20518027481092894822011-12-29T14:08:00.000-05:002011-12-29T14:08:35.600-05:00Happy New YearAs 2011 comes to an end, I find myself reflecting back on the past year. I'm first and foremost grateful to our wonderful staff, dedicated volunteers, and generous donors who made it possible for the Men's Shelter to care for close to 600 men each night while moving more than 300 men into more appropriate housing. Our board of directors, under the leadership of board chair Cathy Pullen, have been steadfast in their resolve to ensure that no homeless man in need be turned away. Even with an all-time record of 683 men sheltered on one night (November 29th), I'm proud to say we kept that promise throughout the year. It hasn't always been easy, financially or on our staff, but its been the right thing to do and we'll continue to shelter all who seek our assistance with the support of our community. <br />
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As you think about making your resolutions for 2012, I hope you'll think of ways to give your time, talents, and treasure to help the Men's Shelter of Charlotte provide safe shelter to all homeless men while working to end homelessness for each man we serve.<br />
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Happy New Year!W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-25302801636792690792011-12-16T16:21:00.000-05:002011-12-16T16:21:17.835-05:00National Homeless Persons Memorial DayDecember 21st is the first day of winter, typically the longest night of the year, and happens to also be my birthday. More importantly, National Homeless Persons Memorial Day is observed each year on December 21st in our nation's capital and throughout the country. To learn more visit the National Coalition for the Homeless' website <a href="http://www.nationalhomeless.org/">www.nationalhomeless.org</a>. As we celebrate the holiday season, please join me and take a moment on Tuesday, December 21, 2011 to remember our homeless citizens, neighbors, and friends who have died over the past year. I also urge you to learn more about <em>Opening Doors</em> (<a href="http://www.usich.gov/">www.usich.gov</a>) and <em>More than Shelter </em>(<a href="http://www.housingcoalition.charlottenc.gov/">www.housingcoalition.charlottenc.gov</a>), our respective federal and local plans to end and prevent homelessness. My New Year's resolution is to continue envisioning a time in the near future when National Homeless Persons Memorial Day will honor the lives of those lost before homelessness ceased to exist.W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-12506620690448995642011-11-11T14:23:00.000-05:002011-11-11T14:23:44.917-05:00Thank You Morning Star Lutheran MenLast night I had the privilege of joining the men at Morning Star Lutheran Church for dinner as they celebrated their 15-plus years serving dinner at the Men's Shelter. Not only was the meal terrific - Thank You Pastor Tim - but so was the fellowship. Getting to know these dedicated volunteers - Art and I are both NC State Alumni - was the highlight of my day. And to cap off the evening, I was presented with a wonderfully generous donation on behalf of their ministry. My thanks to Bob for the invitation and to all of the Morning Star Lutheran men for their dedication to the mission of the Men's Shelter of Charlotte.W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-86428407696232323342011-11-09T10:16:00.000-05:002011-11-09T10:16:54.249-05:00Bank of America Honors the Men's Shelter with Neighborhood Builder AwardLast night the Men's Shelter of Charlotte received the 2011 Bank of America Neighborhood Excellence Initiative Neighborhood Builder Award! Our agency joins a list of distinguished past recipients from our community and around the country. As part of this award, MSC will participate in a year-long emerging leaders training program sponsored by Bank of America. The award also comes with a $200,000 grant that MSC will use to implement Rapid Re-housing, an evidenced-based best practice to help move men quickly from the shelter into housing. <br />
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We are tremendously grateful to Bank of American for its commitment to the Men's Shelter of Charlotte and ending homelessness in our community!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGDXCQJrsN8aar-5rXY8b9oZPQUeRG1cR9WHLuNB70UQtq7EXoxJ2VYxuW8ZB__XRpkcLrgIyJmTHb8M2JPaeUNWikYR0TP3gMxG6DMBg-r17gWsvNIYvdf3_RbwJGYBtmdsnHVEFJe7c/s1600/DSC_1050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGDXCQJrsN8aar-5rXY8b9oZPQUeRG1cR9WHLuNB70UQtq7EXoxJ2VYxuW8ZB__XRpkcLrgIyJmTHb8M2JPaeUNWikYR0TP3gMxG6DMBg-r17gWsvNIYvdf3_RbwJGYBtmdsnHVEFJe7c/s320/DSC_1050.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-30105077550242237512011-09-07T13:51:00.000-04:002011-09-07T13:51:13.858-04:00Pentagon Visit TodayMany thanks to Col. David Sutherland from the Office of the Chairman of the Joints Chief of Staff at the Pentagon for visiting the Men's Shelter today. Col. Sutherland was in Charlotte to promote more effective community-based strategies for helping support veterans and their families in our community. Between media interviews, lunch with the Mayor, and public presentations, the Colonel and his staff took a tour of our Tryon Street Campus and sat down with a group of homeless veterans to listen to their needs. Did you know that the Men's Shelter of Charlotte serves between 200-300 homeless veterans a year?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5140kDpyBCHBXtE50ifTIl3OB8FmAmO8Mv-GmMN5gYMBS7DVjh7YZWKiTg5MEclypOPdq84WuGqouAqeyUmwYSHtURVMxNDJYND7TX2aOdzFhVUxZ300gj8zAKJROruFu-X_G9MaT_Ac/s1600/DSC_0884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5140kDpyBCHBXtE50ifTIl3OB8FmAmO8Mv-GmMN5gYMBS7DVjh7YZWKiTg5MEclypOPdq84WuGqouAqeyUmwYSHtURVMxNDJYND7TX2aOdzFhVUxZ300gj8zAKJROruFu-X_G9MaT_Ac/s320/DSC_0884.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Col. Sutherland (left) with Lt. Col. Hart talk with homeless veterans at the Men's Shelter </td></tr>
</tbody></table>W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-71180542345286402372011-08-29T10:56:00.000-04:002011-08-29T10:56:51.459-04:00September Toiletry DriveStarting September 1st, the Men's Shelter in partnership with Crisis Assistance Ministry, A Child's Place, Union County Community Shelter, and the United Way of Central Carolinas will be sponsoring a month-long Toiletry Drive. We provide an enormous quantity of personal hygiene items to our clients for free and as responsible non-profits we try to keep our costs in purchasing these items to a bare minimum. You may not know this, but MSC gives out about 2,000 disposable razors each month and can go through more than 500 bars of hotel size soap each <u>night</u>! <br />
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You can help.<br />
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Throughout the month of September, donate soap, shampoo, disposable razors, and deodorant at any of our collection sites and we'll make sure it gets to those most in need. While individual or "hotel" sizes work best, we'll make sure all donated items are put to good use. A flyer providing more detailed information will be posted on our website or you can contact Megan or Linda in our Community Development Department (704.334.3187) for assistance.<br />
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Thanks in advance for helping our agencies meet the basic needs of homeless men, women, children, and families throughout our community.W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-28162461555960568032011-07-19T15:57:00.000-04:002011-07-19T15:57:01.340-04:00Men's Shelter Welcomes New Board MembersToday, the Men's Shelter of Charlotte welcomed six new members to our Board of Directors - Bob Bishop, Pat Fogarty, BJ Haughey, Mark Olson, John Oxrider, and Will Smoak. As you can see from the following photos, it didn't take us long to put them to work!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9NCJJls3-FLwSwtqMw6UhUWDJLIq_x_FvvxUz8BKBSpNfkwNDUWHiMRkbbofHHptCoZR2b2IAiO52jviPJkqmPk3Enu-aYRYpoQeMuc0SchqJ5uWrqz2yaVOkQcHM5DZoOlHsi4G_zfI/s1600/Volunteer+pics+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9NCJJls3-FLwSwtqMw6UhUWDJLIq_x_FvvxUz8BKBSpNfkwNDUWHiMRkbbofHHptCoZR2b2IAiO52jviPJkqmPk3Enu-aYRYpoQeMuc0SchqJ5uWrqz2yaVOkQcHM5DZoOlHsi4G_zfI/s320/Volunteer+pics+003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9KmRJbTc7LKzZ_CnCJ3Y_TMJPSGCodMyU_dP-4kRbE_iwRjGLhLiCfRDoeoDUTklTp7-K5wF86D4SweMQ18a_eEahIGEpMAmO4eDVW7pyBkqtCM8QMmFgP1E-eKFFumFcebSK7C-MTn4/s1600/Volunteer+pics+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9KmRJbTc7LKzZ_CnCJ3Y_TMJPSGCodMyU_dP-4kRbE_iwRjGLhLiCfRDoeoDUTklTp7-K5wF86D4SweMQ18a_eEahIGEpMAmO4eDVW7pyBkqtCM8QMmFgP1E-eKFFumFcebSK7C-MTn4/s320/Volunteer+pics+001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-42817689357063412602011-06-24T08:05:00.000-04:002011-06-24T08:05:38.443-04:00Another Long Hot SummerHey, but what should you expect in Charlotte during the summer other than heat and humidity? Did you know that a study a few years ago in Philadelphia demonstrated that a slightly higher number of homeless people died due to summer weather than winter weather? Philly is also very hot in the summer but their winters are much more harsh than ours, which further shows how much safe shelter and services to help end homelessness is critical year round. Just this past week, the Men's Shelter welcomed 644 men on just one night! In May, the average number of men sheltered each night was just as high as in November and almost 50 more men per night than we served last May. Some may believe that there are fewer homeless people in the summer, but the numbers prove otherwise. So, this summer as you're enjoying your well-deserved vacation, barbecue party, and swimming pool, please take a moment to learn more about what you can do to help our community's most vulnerable citizens. Since you're reading this blog, you're already on our website (<a href="http://www.mensshelterofcharlotte.org/">http://www.mensshelterofcharlotte.org/</a>), so why not click over to the <strong>Get Involved</strong> tab now to see how you can donate and volunteer today. Have a safe and fun-filled summer!W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-4227903244846397032011-04-27T07:42:00.000-04:002011-04-27T07:42:29.146-04:00Thanks for Their Leadership<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">It takes a lot of people to carry out the mission of the Men's Shelter. Our professional staff working on intake, case management, facility operations, food service, and administration numbers about 50 hardworking, dedicated people - many of them have been featured on our website, in our newsletters, and on Facebook. We have thousands of compassionate volunteers, without whom we wouldn't exist. We have many, many service delivery partners carrying out a wide range of supportive services to help the men we serve. And, we have a supportive community standing behind the mission and the activities that help over 500 homeless men each night. I am very thankful for all of these people.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I also have four special people who work long hours, are completely committed to our agency, and mostly go unrecognized for their tremendous efforts. I'd like to introduce each of them and offer my public thanks for their service to the Men's Shelter and our community.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2Dcj978Mu7zA4IVEyfswMbnrKMgZWOMgHJPgZ4peK-rYoX_OWehKrCnWdMzrXYUeh-c98kP2nuu8jI4hEXuyp2TDD4dVL5bDFM42vqvx1jiEjB0tubuJ0JZomWxTKfNKWZDYWC6qHIU/s1600/Ashley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2Dcj978Mu7zA4IVEyfswMbnrKMgZWOMgHJPgZ4peK-rYoX_OWehKrCnWdMzrXYUeh-c98kP2nuu8jI4hEXuyp2TDD4dVL5bDFM42vqvx1jiEjB0tubuJ0JZomWxTKfNKWZDYWC6qHIU/s200/Ashley.jpg" width="200" /></a>Ashley Milano-Barnett is our Associate Executive Director for Client Services. Ashley is responsible for making sure our shelters are welcoming places that meet the needs of the men we serve. Ashley supervises the staff under our four client services components - Prevention & Outreach, Basic Needs, Supportive Services, and Continuing Care. Ashley has been working with the homeless in Charlotte for more than dozen years and is one of the most compassionate, client-centered social workers I know.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirPUJqNOG5IWpKajJlp2Ro0swWtznPa2KnT9iq9KqdKl8E-qrMy3pNNw4EGdiL0JdV6k7oQtHOLSa5xGNfbiyiBH5MddUkQth9a-P1FsVrA8sgcekGr79fcJq4bo7eFBkiDXOmNz-nOCU/s1600/Trish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirPUJqNOG5IWpKajJlp2Ro0swWtznPa2KnT9iq9KqdKl8E-qrMy3pNNw4EGdiL0JdV6k7oQtHOLSa5xGNfbiyiBH5MddUkQth9a-P1FsVrA8sgcekGr79fcJq4bo7eFBkiDXOmNz-nOCU/s200/Trish.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Trish Hobson is our Associate Executive Director for Community Development. Trish oversees our fundraising, major gifts, planned giving, volunteer coordination, communications, marketing, and public relations. Trish and small her team make sure that the Men's Shelter has the financial, volunteer, and in-kind resources needed to carry out our mission. Trish has been in development for several years and I believe is the best at what she does.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7zYPtQKIOodbKA154DJDgh-zvwgKVsY3FjRcTZPD50NmRCk09DxNZOLOR9fLaRxzDh3vg8e2DoCoKIvH7BhpOALYmIJ6GE68-KDnIykRra0FyPReMWMUlaNy-wnN9TeaGIp3lrQXiqeQ/s1600/Anita.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7zYPtQKIOodbKA154DJDgh-zvwgKVsY3FjRcTZPD50NmRCk09DxNZOLOR9fLaRxzDh3vg8e2DoCoKIvH7BhpOALYmIJ6GE68-KDnIykRra0FyPReMWMUlaNy-wnN9TeaGIp3lrQXiqeQ/s200/Anita.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Anita Leach is our Business Director. She manages our finances, pays the bills, oversee Human Resources, and balances the books. Anita is budget director, office manager, HR counselor, and bookkeeper all rolled into one. Anita ensures that we have a clean audit each year and maintain our United Way and BBB accreditation. Anita has over 25 years' experience in the nonprofit sector and we're fortunate to have her experience and sense of humor on our team.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPhqLDe7FHG2N9AUH5wRxj-o1NZ3DQaoV69VjKIqVWGbqMu-AWg_eGhe10I7TVsLa3fCqbTy-bRHQ5PXbs7BEuIPpXY5qawGKQhU7ZiGDU2hE1jvtvwKfFLaznb6FoU25JO8x4lbqkbdI/s1600/William.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPhqLDe7FHG2N9AUH5wRxj-o1NZ3DQaoV69VjKIqVWGbqMu-AWg_eGhe10I7TVsLa3fCqbTy-bRHQ5PXbs7BEuIPpXY5qawGKQhU7ZiGDU2hE1jvtvwKfFLaznb6FoU25JO8x4lbqkbdI/s200/William.jpg" width="200" /></a>William Hicks is our Facilities Director. He is responsible for keeping our shelters clean and safe, supervising our food services operation, and managing relationships with our vendors. William is constantly switching gears from toiler repair, to lawn care, to contract negotiation - the number of tasks he touches in one day boggles my mind. William has worked in facilities management for many years and I believe his longevity is due in part to how well he manages relationships with vendors, staff, volunteers, and clients.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Obviously, Ashley, Trish, Anita, and William have many talented people working with them to accomplish our mission. However, they are each truly servant leaders and trusted advisers to me. It's about time I said thank you publicly.</div>W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-57556580617090672102011-04-07T15:28:00.000-04:002011-04-07T15:28:43.176-04:00Heroes for the HomelessDuring our 3rd Annual <em>Under Our Roof</em> Community Partnership Breakfast on March 22, the Men's Shelter recognized three important people whose sharing of time and talent set them apart as Heroes for the Homeless. Present to accept their award and be thanked publicly were <strong>Frank Bryant </strong>and <strong>Sylvester Huff</strong>, two dedicated volunteers at the Men's Shelter. Unfortunately, our third recipient, <strong>Keith Wilson</strong>, who was recognized for his tireless efforts advocating for the homeless in our community, was unable to attend and be thanked during the breakfast. So, I'd like to offer this public thanks to <strong>Keith Wilson</strong> for being a Hero for the Homeless!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZFp9-zlyuAW3UALBs-RUYR6I5OcbN9E68yS_0KQ5aN4ZINrNIiHRKnVuumeocj7urwWq8JVtXRWkbueJFn-UGphyphenhyphenLggXHPaq-rT5lYD-_fp0FA4ML6zIgD3nfBwdddC7g75zmwhVMxB0/s1600/Keith+Wilson_Hero_2011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZFp9-zlyuAW3UALBs-RUYR6I5OcbN9E68yS_0KQ5aN4ZINrNIiHRKnVuumeocj7urwWq8JVtXRWkbueJFn-UGphyphenhyphenLggXHPaq-rT5lYD-_fp0FA4ML6zIgD3nfBwdddC7g75zmwhVMxB0/s320/Keith+Wilson_Hero_2011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Keith Wilson, right, a Hero for the HomelessW. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-31774406430628732852011-04-05T19:55:00.000-04:002011-04-05T19:55:35.553-04:00The Future of MSCAt the Men's Shelter's 3rd Annual <em>Under Our Roof </em>Community Partnership Breakfast, our Board Chair Cathy Pullen announced our revised mission and vision statements:<br />
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<strong>Mission: The Men's Shelter is dedicated to providing safe emergency shelter while working to end homelessness for each man.</strong><br />
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<strong>Vision: Our vision is to serve as the catalyst for systemic change to end homelessness in our community.</strong><br />
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As the Men's Shelter celebrates our 30th Anniversary throughout 2011, we want to honor our past work in helping homeless men while becoming an agency better able to help men move beyond homelessness.<br />
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In the coming weeks you'll see a revamped Men's Shelter of Charlotte website that will continue to share how we plan to accomplish our mission and vision. W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-66671255136912817112011-03-09T08:27:00.000-05:002011-03-09T08:27:22.393-05:00A Special Thanks to the Charlotte BobcatsYesterday, the Charlotte Bobcats wrapped up a day of community service by helping prepare and serve dinner at the Men's Shelter. It was a great event and our guests really enjoyed the fellowship with Bobcats' staff, management, players, cheerleaders, and mascots. First on the service line was none other than Michael Jordan! In addition to dinner, each guest received a goodie bag with new socks, toothbrush and Bobcats t-shirt. While waiting in the dinner line, one of our guests told me that it was his "life long dream to meet Michael Jordan" and here he was having Michael serve him dinner. It makes such a difference to the men we serve when our community reaches out to help them. As I was walking through the shelter last night preparing to go home, I noticed several of our guests calling family and talking to friends excited to tell them that the Bobcats had served dinner, a cheerleader signed their t-shirt, they got their picture taken with the mascot, or they met Michael and the players.<br />
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The Men's Shelter is grateful to the Bobcats organization for including us in their day of service. Special thanks to Coach Lee Rose, a Men's Shelter volunteer, who introduced us to the Bobcats. Our sincerest appreciation to the Bobcats staff, and especially, Kim Beal and Carl Scheer for choosing the Men's Shelter and coordianting yesterday's event. And certainly, our thanks to Michael Jordan and the Charlotte Bobcats players and cheerleaders for spending their time caring for homeless men in our community.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyEPZ0hY-2kN6hHWtOvIgJrVFBElVb8Z3LWVpVXEKRfyXkbMVqxm7zMiH4Uvw1DBxYywT8kHWB93zoS9sX8B_hzu985RswkbzfQ4vw69zx3guOhWDk184Up06qE18oE4u2H9cXMFVFtS8/s1600/Carson+%2526+Michael+Jordan_8Mar11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyEPZ0hY-2kN6hHWtOvIgJrVFBElVb8Z3LWVpVXEKRfyXkbMVqxm7zMiH4Uvw1DBxYywT8kHWB93zoS9sX8B_hzu985RswkbzfQ4vw69zx3guOhWDk184Up06qE18oE4u2H9cXMFVFtS8/s320/Carson+%2526+Michael+Jordan_8Mar11.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-26042232937234132362011-01-27T13:52:00.000-05:002011-01-27T13:52:00.897-05:00New Year's MessageWhat an absolutely incredible, challenging, and blessed year we’ve had at the Men’s Shelter of Charlotte! At this time last year, the shelters on our two campuses – Statesville Avenue and Tryon Street – we serving about 500 men per night. One year later that number is closer to 600 men per night with many nights well above 600. The rising numbers bring me no joy, it’s the response from the community that has been so wonderful. When we brought the Emergency Winter Shelter and Uptown Shelter together to create the Men’s Shelter of Charlotte, we were focused on one main goal – to do an even better job helping the hundreds of homeless men in our community come in off the streets, find comfort and stability in our shelters, and begin the journey towards self-sufficiency by moving out of homelessness. We started by ensuring that at least 500 beds of safe emergency shelter were made available to homeless men in our community every night. When we realized that number was insufficient, we decided that we would welcome all and not turn away any homeless man seeking assistance – we would find a way to shelter all who came. And we’ve lived up to that promise! As importantly, we’ve introduced new best practices to encourage men to leave the streets for our shelters and to help them obtain and maintain more appropriate housing. Last year we helped over 125 men move out of the shelter and into housing. Our goal this year is to move at least 250 men into housing. With so many men in our beds each night, the Men’s Shelter is an ideal catalyst for ending homelessness, one man at a time. We’ve done this with the support of our county and city, the United Way, corporations, foundations, congregations, and individuals – lots and lots of individuals. The support has been great, unfortunately it has not kept pace with the demand. We have more than doubled our year-round shelter capacity over the past year, but many of our funding resources have not increased and some have even decreased. We’re working hard to engage new donors and attract additional funding resources, but the economy has not cooperated. We’ll continue to work around the clock to help homeless men and secure the funding needed to do so. As we begin a new year, I encourage all of our supporters to consider what more you can do to help.W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-88092014699075021012010-12-10T14:37:00.000-05:002010-12-10T14:37:19.132-05:00Holiday WishesAs we enter the season of celebration and fellowship, I'd like to thank all who have supported the Men's Shelter throughout 2010. Many of you have been volunteers, donors, and supporters for many years. Many of you have become engaged in our mission just recently. You have all played an incredible role in helping the Men's Shelter help hundreds of men move beyond homelessness this year as well as keeping thousands more safe and cared for during very difficult times in their lives. You not only have my sincerest thanks, but also the deepest appreciate of our staff, board, and guests. I wish each of you the most joyous holiday season.W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-79874875393558373662010-11-01T16:32:00.000-04:002010-11-01T16:32:02.540-04:00550 & Counting!October is typically our prelude to winter. The days begin to grow shorter and the nights begin to get cooler. This October was a bit atypical, with some very hot days and mostly warm nights. October was also atypical because the Men's Shelter experienced record high numbers of men seeking shelter. In October 2009 our two shelters averaged 397 men per night. This October (2010) that average skyrocketed to an astounding 550 men per night! Since the weather played no obvious role in these huge numbers, we've become increasingly concerned that winter averages will exceed 600. Still, the Men's Shelter is committed to serving ALL homeless men seeking our assistance this winter. With this commitment comes added financial responsibility because it takes money to provide shelter, showers, utilities, and meals to all of these extra men. Unfortunately, several of our major revenue sources continue to fund MSC as a 265 shelter, not a 500 bed shelter that is exceeding its capacity to meet the needs of all homeless men. We could use your help. Volunteers and donated meals help keep our costs down. But we also need your financial assistance. Please visit our website (<a href="http://www.menshelterofcharlotte.org/">http://www.menshelterofcharlotte.org/</a>) today and make a donation or call our Community Development staff at 704.334.3187 x 502 to participate in our major gifts campaign. It costs us less than $20 per night to safely shelter a homeless man but with so many men these nights we need everyone's support. Thank you for helping us<em> help homeless men.</em>W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5084655982986369801.post-34589229693478973622010-09-09T15:29:00.000-04:002010-09-09T15:29:27.953-04:00The Crisis ContinuesOur community has been through a lot the last couple of years. County government has faced budget shortfalls that have affected social services, schools, and libraries, to name a few. Businesses, large and small, have struggled through a sluggish economy and the housing market is in its worst shape since the Great Depression. Our most vulnerable citizens have struggled too. Homelessness reached a critical state in Charlotte a couple of years ago and the numbers of homeless citizens remains high and growing. The Men's Shelter has averaged as many men in our two shelters each night this summer as we did during the worst nights of last winter. I have a son attending CMS in the second grade and funding our school system is important to me. I was once a school teacher and applaud the efforts starting to surface in our community to financially support education. I just hope, for the sake of the 500+ homeless men the Men's Shelter serves each night and the 6,000+ homeless citizens in our community, that the efforts to support critical needs and emergency shelter over the past two years are not forgotten as other important issues are tackled. Having a roof over your head, even if its in a shelter, should be an absolute right for all of our citizens.W. Carson Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16259507218708585790noreply@blogger.com0