4.1.5. Engaging to Empower

Due to our mobility, we were also contacted by a leader of one temporary shelter that housed a lady who was expected to graduate with a Bachelor of Education degree. The request was for us to help make her day special. We then lobbied using social media and our connections. Many people came forward, some offering to dress her up, while someone offered to buy a cake for the graduation party, and more came forward to arrange decorations, catering, etc. As social work academics, we agreed that we would coordinate the program and use the opportunity to restore cohesion and inspire in the midst of adversity. Unfortunately, the graduation ceremony was canceled due to a protected strike, which was a huge disappointment for all of us, but more so for the young lady.
