StandUp for Kids
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September 9, 2009
StandUp for Kids in Downtown San Diego helped me out when I definitely couldn't help myself. I was homeless due to drug addiction in my late teens, and StandUp didn't ask me questions when I stumbled into their building. They gave me food when I was hungry, and clothes and showers when I was dirty. The counselors there seriously wanted to help us, and they weren't far off in age. They would listen if someone wanted to talk, and their sincerity let us be something other than homeless, drug addicted teenagers for a few hours a night. They let us be normal kids. We'd sit around in the mock living room in the center, eat homemade food, and even do chores. That sense of normalcy was priceless. I didn't think about what I'd do after the Center closed, I was just happy to be there, right then. They reminded me of the life I left behind and eventually I missed my old life, got clean, and went back to it. But honestly, if it weren't for the meals, clothes, support and sense of normalcy StandUp for Kids gave me 5 years ago, I don't know what would have happened to me. I would have been forced to do comitt crimes everytime I needed food and clothes, and I would have probably ended up in jail. Now none of my friends would even guess I lived that life years ago. I have a Bachelor's Degree, a good job, and a good life. I definitely appreciate everything StandUp did for me, and if I had a million dollars to give to charity, it would definitely be to StandUp. Rick Koka, the CEO is an amazing man with a huge heart and the world definitely needs more people like him, who are so committed to making positive change in this world.
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The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
genuine, intelligent, well-trained, kind and helpful
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
help even more streetkids get off the street and survive.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2007
September 9, 2009
What this great nonprofit means to me: It’s not about having a place to call home or even a place to lay your head at night. It’s about knowing who you are and where you come from and which direction to take the next day. Its knowing you can turn your back when it’s too painful, but return knowing everything remains the way you left it. Being able to laugh and cry and know you’re loved regardless of your weaknesses or strengths. And knowing the people you call your friends and family love you unconditionally. That is your home. Thank you StandUp For Kids for being my home and home for all of Americas homeless youth!
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
More feedback...
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
open more Outreach Centers so we could reach more homeless and street kids who need our help and hire more staff to assist our programs in every capacity.
Ways to make it better...
I had the opportunity to personally meet all of our volunteers face to face and thank them for all of their hard work.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
September 9, 2009
As the Founder & CEO of StandUp For Kids, I'm proud to say that we've been on the streets for almost 20 years, making a tremendous difference in the lives of thousands of homeless and street kids and at-risk youth. All of this through the thousands of volunteers that have come to help in this effort to make the difference in the lives of kids who believe that no one cares about the. If there's one thing that StandUp For Kids could do for you today, what would that be? My sincere appreciation to the kids, the volunteers, and sponsors and supporters who have helped make an unbelievable difference in more than 43 communities. With Best Regards, Rick Koca Founder & CEO StandUp For Kids
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Yes, I've been with the Kids, with the Volunteers, and with the Supporters and Sponsors.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
Making a real difference. It might take a village, but it begins with one person!
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
Committed, Dedicated and real!
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
Start programs in more cities and open outreach centers in cities where they already have programs.
Ways to make it better...
I would have had more background experience before starting StandUp For Kids. 30 years in the Navy didn't teach me what I needed to know to start a nonprofit! : )
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
More leaders
One thing I'd also say is that...
Tomorrow is a new day, and we will be here!
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
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