“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.”
-Coretta Scott King
To most people, late October to Early December is autumn, but to the students at Enloe High School, this time of year is a wonderful period known as “Charity Ball Season.” It’s the time of year when the entire school comes together to raise money and awareness for a noble cause. In this month and a half, the Enloe community unites in its mission to forever change the lives of numerous individuals, with the gift of love and service.
“The ache for home lives in all of us, the safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned.”
-Maya Angelou
The most important thing that distinguishes a house from a home is love. To have a home is to have a place where you don’t have to worry about getting a meal that night, a place where you feel cared for, and a place where you feel completely comfortable to be yourself. It’s not only a place where you have a roof over your head, but it’s a place where you feel that you belong.
There is a reason why we call those who are unstably housed “homeless,” instead of “houseless.” They sometimes not only lack a reliable shelter, but also don’t have anywhere to turn when they need help. The Oak City Outreach Center (of the Raleigh/Wake Partnership to End and Prevent Homelessness) not only serves as a physical shelter during the weekends, but creates a space where every person that crosses the threshold feels like they are exactly where they are supposed to be.
“Everyone can do simple things to make a difference, and every little bit does count.”
-Stella McCartney
This year, Enloe is working to raise $150,000 for the Raleigh/Wake Partnership to End and Prevent Homelessness, in order to build a new multi-service center that will serve as a “one-stop shop” for the homeless population of Wake County. But in order to reach this goal, we need the help of our entire community. There is no such thing as a small action – everything has a big impact. Every bit of spare change you donate to a coin drive, every hour of your time you spend volunteering, every ounce of effort that is put towards our cause, will change a life. But it all starts with one small step in right direction.
Keya Pothireddy
Junior Class President