There is a change looming for the streets of Nashville tonight, and it's been happening now every year for over two decades. March 31st was the final night for Room in the Inn here in Nashville, a program started back in 1985 by Father Charlie Strobel a catholic priest so amazing that more descriptive words simply elude me. Sadly, the 150+ congregations that have participated this winter wnd who have been running at capacity since the start back on November 1st have shut their doors until next November.
So tonight the 200+people who were able to find refuge in local churches over the winter, thanks to Room in the Inn, will be forced to sleep outside for the first time since last fall.
It's hard to say where all these folks are going to lay their heads tonight, but you can be certain that they will be out there this evening along with the thousands of others who call the local overpass, or the alleyway, or the riverfront, home. ....
 The story of Room In The Inn’s Campus for Human Development is a story of hope. Since 1986 we have provided programs and services to those most in need in Middle Tennessee.We are an interfaith organization rooted in communities of faith. In assessing the needs of the homeless, we have a unique vision that is different from government and for-profit corporations. Our work is not a quick fix, nor is it without its challenges. Each time we touch the life of one in need, we see God's plan at work. We see God’s message of hope. Join with us as we write the next chapter in this story. |
Supporting the Work of the Campus Financial Giving The financial support provided us by congregations and individuals is critical to our mission. Forty percent of our annual operating budget must be derived from the private sector. The lion's share of this amount comes from the faith community and from individuals. Regular contributions ensure that we will be able to consistently provide for the needs of those we serve by meeting operational and program expenses. Please prayerfully consider a monthly or quarterly donation to the Campus for Human Development. All donations are tax deductible and are greatly appreciated. Make out your check to the Campus for Human Development and mail it to P. O. Box 25309 Nashville, TN 37202. Volunteer Opportunities? Volunteers are welcome in every area of Campus life. They serve in many roles, according to their gifts and talents and Campus needs. One responsibility all volunteers and staff share is that of providing the grace of hospitality. Those who enter our doors are welcomed and treated with respect. While many organizations in our society are ordered by rules of exclusion, we strive to create a fellowship based upon inclusion, based upon love. We believe the special relationships that develop among participants, volunteers, staff, and friends of the Campus are essential to building and maintaining an inclusive community. Campus volunteers bring their own special skills to their work at the Campus. They teach in the education program, welcome participants in the assessment area, provide companionship at the Respite Care Center. Volunteers lead music appreciation discussions at Guest House, lead AA meetings, and prepare lunch for 150. They also provide clerical assistance, staff fundraisers, and hand out towels and soap in the shower room. Whatever your interests and skills may be, they can be put to good use here at the Campus. The Campus depends on donations to supply the basics in hygiene, food, shelter, and life's other necessities for our participants. We keep a list of items that are always in demand and we also update a list of immediate needs. Potential volunteers tour the Campus and talk with our volunteer coordinator about their interests and our needs. Volunteers receive an orientation to the Campus and training in the program in which they will work. We hope you will consider joining our community in whatever way you choose. As one of our participants said recently, "Come over to our place today. For more information about volunteer opportunities, or to arrange a tour of the Campus, please email volunteer@RoomInTheInn.org You won't look at your place the same way tomorrow." |
