Trinity Center is a faith-based organization meeting the spiritual, emotional and physical needs of people experiencing poverty and homelessness, our “neighbors.” The Center functions as a place of worship, a day resource/drop-in center, a basic needs provider (restrooms, phones, computers and meals), and a place to feel welcome, safe, and heard.
"I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." Matthew 25:40 |
 |
At first glance, it looked like so many other luncheons - the white tablecloths, courteous wait staff, and well dressed guests finding their seats and turning off cell phones; however, this fundraiser also included eight of the homeless clients served by Austin’s Trinity Center who were seated near the stage and who were enjoying lunch and conversation along with the other guests. The opening prayer was offered by one of these guests, Sister Pat. Pat is one of the regular visitors to our Woman to Woman program, a breakfast, devotional, and shopping time offered by Trinity Center each Monday morning.
Guests at the luncheon were treated to a variety of exceptional speakers, including local author and comedian Owen Egerton, who volunteers at Trinity Center, and Jody Conradt, retired coach of the UT Women’s Basketball team. Conradt introduced the featured speaker, Beverly Kearney, head coach of the UT Women’s Track and Field Team. The room was charged with emotion before Kearney even took the stage, as Conradt explained how an automobile accident had left the former track star paralyzed from the neck down. Then the audience watched as the woman whom doctors said would never stand or walk strode proudly onto the stage.
Kearney told the audience that even though doctors thought she wouldn’t walk, they never told her, “Ignorance really is bliss.” She said,“Sometimes it is better not to have that reality check.” Kearney went on to share that she never feels sorry for herself, a habit she may have learned when she herself was homeless as a teenager. Now she celebrates the fact that she owns not one but two homes in Austin. She encouraged everyone present to do all they could to create opportunities for other homeless neighbors to find their way. For many of us, she said, “the second half of the game is starting and the coach has just put us in. It is time to stop sitting on the sidelines and complaining, and get into the game.”
Volunteers who want to get into the game at Trinity Center can start by signing up to volunteer.
|
