“Golden rule moment: A passion for a better world” — Published
Albert Celoza
Special for The Republic
A man named Wayne set up camp near the walkway by Brandon’s condo. His belongings all bundled and piled up had a big sign: Wayne’s Stuff. Do not steal. I’m probably at the liquor store, bank or the laundromat.
This intrigued Brandon about Wayne.
What rights does he have to stake a portion of a vacant space and set up camp? Brandon searched online about the homeless and started to ask questions about the situation. His inquiries led him to a friend who introduced him to an advocate for the homeless. On her Facebook page is her photo with a sign, ‘advocate for the homeless.’ She introduced Brandon to Saint Vincent de Paul, a charity organization whose motto is ‘Feed, Clothe, House, Heal,’ where Brandon started as a volunteer.
As a volunteer, he encountered about 250 men and women who spend the night in the emergency shelter and are fed breakfast in the morning. He was asked by volunteer trainers to smile and say hello. He learned that in the streets, and anywhere, they are ignored. A greeting and a smile would make a difference in their day. Brandon is a sensitive man who, just thinking about this predicament of the homeless, made his eyes watery as if feeling the pain that they feel.
An opportunity opened up for Brandon to work, not just as a volunteer, but as an employee. His motivation was so strong that he was willing to leave a career in hospitality, hotel and conference management that he had worked on for more than 25 years. The nonprofit world is so different from the industry that he has dedicated many years of his life.
Kudos to the loving kindness of his wife, Courtney, who was very supportive. Courtney has been the bedrock of their family and has given everyone, including their two children, the opportunities for study and a well-managed household.
This dramatic shift in Brandon’s career carries less financial reward, but offers the camaraderie and company of people who want to make the world better and impact the lives of people, especially those who are in need. At Saint Vincent de Paul he came in direct contact with the challenges of daily living, especially of the poor. While he was baptized as a Catholic Christian, he had little to do with his faith. Now he has a sense of purpose and compassion cultivated by the teachings of Pope Francis and of Jesuit priest Greg Boyle.
I told Brandon that not everyone could and will have the opportunity to work in a place like Saint Vincent de Paul. He said that at whatever age or stage in your life, you could be a volunteer. Students in schools may help feed the needy in their dining halls. Even those who have been sentenced by courts to do community service or have been cited for traffic violations can work their hours as volunteers. The tasks are simple, but the rewards are numerous, as one is able to help others and bring cheer to those who are in need. Networking, alumni groups, civic, church and community organizations have spent their time and effort improving the lives of others.
For volunteer opportunities at Saint Vincent de Paul, visit volunteer.svdpaz.org/scheduler/.
Join Brandon Buck and his passion and quest for a better world.
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