02.06.2012

Poverty; It’s Not Just About the Money

Once again, Ruby Payne has opened up the definition of poverty, helping us understand that it involves so much more than just a lack of money. In order to move from poverty to wealth, one must be able to access the following resources:

Financial: the obvious one

Emotional: the ability to control responses to intense situations

Mental: being able to perform the functions of daily life (mental abilities and skills like writing, reading and computing)

Spiritual: belief in divine purpose and guidance

Physical: general health and mobility

Support Systems: friends, family and resources are there when needed

Relationships/Role Models: appropriate, nurturing adult(s) that do not show self-destructive behavior

Knowledge of Hidden Rules: every group has unspoken cues and habits

Language: ability to use formal register in work and school situations

Notice how many of these resources involve relationships? It is the presence of deep, meaningful relationships in our lives that allows us to grow mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It is the bond of friendship that fosters learning, (remember the teacher that connected with you and turned the learning “light” on?) This is what CWJC is all about…….connecting with someone in need to give them the opportunity to learn, change, grow, and develop.

Thanks to our superior volunteers who take the time !