This week two guest speakers joined our class through a virtual zoom meeting to introduce an affordable housing community called Talmage Gateway. This housing community was designed for individuals who are seniors and houseless. Therefore, the approach of this development seeks to facilitate seniors and meet the needs such as; (e.g. medical care, independence, social support, etc). Although I was anticipating a physical tour at Talmage Gateway housing community, it was eloquently conducted so well by Tricia through virtual zoom. Surprisingly, the development modeled amenities created to meet the homogeneity of those who do live there and consisted of the following features: (e.g. laundry, rooftop terrace, computer lounge, large community room, courtyard, and parking). In addition, to this virtual meeting, there was an individual named Bruce. I must share, he had an impact on me and his story moved me deeply. Bruce shared how he is a seventy-six-year-old veteran who once experienced being houseless, and he emphasized how significant it is for society not to look down or neglect those who are houseless. Therefore, Bruce proposed we ought to look at each individual as a “human being” rather than casting and labeling people based on the conditions they are in. This was an imperative statement to evaluate, rather than looking at their circumstances, we ought to make the efforts of engaging and building relationships with people who are in need of support. He further stated how elated he was when he received his single-unit living space and how it felt good to place a “key” into the keyhole of his door. This is something that I reflected upon, how significant it is to have a “Home”, such a simple illustration, however, so impactful! Today, I feel so appreciative to be a part of this learning community, Life Course Scholars!
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Sarina LopezArchives
March 2022
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