BECOME PART OF THE SOLUTION – B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC.

Homelessness in Los Angeles

According to the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, the 2019 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count report indicated that people experiencing homelessness at point-in-time in the City of Los Angeles increased by 16%, while homelessness increased by 12% in the County of Los Angeles. In 2018, only 21, 631 people experiencing homelessness were placed in homes. The housing placements increased 23% from the year 2017 and more than doubled since 2014. 

Real Economic Issues: 

  • Wages have not kept pace with rental cost
  • 721,000 Los Angeles County households are severely rent-burdened
  • Los Angeles needs 516, 946 new affordable housing units to meet the needs of low-income renters

Major Milestones that Help Tackle Inflow into Homelessness: 

  • Continual increase of affordable housing
  • Place hard limits in rental increases
  • Prevent unjust evictions

Additionally, senior homelessness increased by 8% in the year 2019. Twenty-nine percent of people experiencing homelessness report a serious mental illness and/or substance use disorder (LAHSA, 2019).

How Can You and B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. Become Part of the Solution?

Partner with B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. to end homelessness today by:

  • Volunteering your time to work directly with people experiencing homelessness is one the best avenues to learn about homelessness and help meet immediate needs. There is plenty work “behind the scenes” that you can be part of, such as: offering professional skills, organize an event, involve others, sort clothes, prepare food/sandwiches, help bag hygiene material, assist in outreach events, etc.
  • Advocating with the Founder means working with people who are experiencing homelessness to bring about positive systemic (policies, programs, and language) changes needed to end homelessness and stereotypes. 
  • Contribute the following: clothing for job interviews, household goods, books, computers, survival kits, monetary support/donation, raise funds for B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc., and share the website: https://baretruthinc.org/welcome-1

A Look Back at Some B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. Efforts

Bare Founder and Gov.
B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. FOUNDER, JOSEPH BRADFORD III AND MAYOR OF LOS ANGELES, ERIC M. GARCETTI CELEBRATING THE NEW BRIDGE HOUSING UNIT IN THE CITY OF WATTS.

 

 

 

 

B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. FOUNDER AND VOLUNTEERS SORTING AND PREPARING FOOD TO SERVE PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS.

UPCOMING CALENDAR EVENTS – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

volunteers needed

  • To Be Announced – Homeless / Skid Row Outreach. We will feed, provide water and pass out hygiene bags.

  • Time: 9: 00 a.m. at the ‘B House’ to prepare food, then heading out to Skid Row at 11 a.m.
  • Location: 6th and Wall St. (Skid Row); email B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. for more information on itinerary.
  • Items we need: turkey meat, cheese, socks, water, backpacks, hygiene products, blankets, nail clippers, hand towels, tents, adult clothes and adult shoes.

B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. host events monthly and your support either in a monetary form or other donations is greatly appreciated. Please connect with us!! Can we count on you with a monthly monetary donation of $5, $10, $20, or more? Please note, ALL contributions help the clients we serve! JOIN US AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Please Sign Up or Donate, link available below. For those who would like to volunteer,  but you are not able to, then donating is an option too!

DONATE AND CLICK HERE (EASY & SECURE):

LINK: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/NDY0ODQ=

  • ALL YOUR DONATIONS ARE 100% TAX DEDUCTIBLE.

REASONS TO VOLUNTEER

  • Be part of the solution – key to a life of happiness.
  • Level up your passionate interest and skills – what are you passionate about?
  • Pay-it-forward – practice gratefulness!
  • Empower people to be their best selves – help others succeed!
  • Create more positive experiences by – contributing time or money.

REFERENCES
Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (2019). 2019 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count. https://www.lahsa.org/news?article=557-2019-greater-los-angeles-homeless-count-results

By Maria I. Castro, MPA
Chief Editor
Contact Us
B.A.R.E. Truth Inc.
Los Angeles, CA
Email: BARE.truth3@gmail.com
Website: http://www.baretruthinc.org

Date: 02/10/2020

© 2019 B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. – Making copies or using of any part of the B.A.R.E. TRUTH News Blog or website for any purpose other than your own personal use is prohibited unless written authorization is first obtained from B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC.

 

 

B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. KEY SERVICES

The opportunity to change the world is around every corner. B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. is eagerly responding to the needs of our community. This non-profit and community based organization has employed a philanthropic thinking and more entrepreneurial approach to become more agile, adept, and prepared to better service communities. B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. seeks to decrease divisions between corporate and community, including increasing the value of strong support among different sectors in our societies.

group holding hands
‘There is no limit to the amount of good you can do if you don’t care who gets the credit.’
Ronald Reagan

 

B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. AFFORDABLE HOUSING & UNSTABLE HOUSING IMPACTS

Improving the stability and quality of life for families and communities is one of the key strategic goals that B.A.R.E. TRUTH commits to accomplish. However, it is important to understand the impacts of unstable housing to find purpose in reaching set goals. What are the disadvantages in communities without affordable housing?

In the U.S., one in four renters pay more than 50% of their income on rent, leaving less money for other important expenses like transportation, food, health care or education (Brisson, 2014). The unstable housing breakdown below is based on a research report by Amy Brisson, Program Director at Enterprise Community Partners.

Unstable housing or homelessness ⇒⇒ leads to stress and difficulty in learning for children

Stress & difficulty in learning ⇒⇒ disrupted school attendance ⇒⇒ poorer school performance

Forms of Housing Instability:

  • Homelessness
  • High Housing Costs related to income
  • Overcrowding
  • Poor housing quality
  • Multiple housing moves

Health Risks for Children due to Housing Instability:

  • General poor health
  • Asthma
  • Low weight
  • Development delays
  • Increased lifetime risk of depression

Health Risks for Adults due to Housing Instability:

  • Reduced access to care
  • Postponing needed health care
  • Postponing needed medications
  • Mental distress
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Incidents of depression

According to Amy Brisson, Program Director and the Children’s Health Watch, affordable housing protects children from harmful health risks. For instance, there is +35% greater chance of being classified as a ‘well’ child. Additionally, there -27% lower risk of being seriously underweight and -19% lower risk of being food insecure.

B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. provides access to decent and affordable housing. The ‘B House’ provides critical stability for families and lowers the risk of homelessness for vulnerable families. The ‘B House’ advantages are:

  • Increase the amount of resources that families or adults can put toward other household necessities and future savings
  • Help create a stable environment for children, which leads to improved educational outcomes
  • Improve health by providing stability, including increasing resources for food and health care
  • Increase access to amenities in quality homes
  • Separate room accommodations for adults, families, and seniors
  • Affordable housing located near public transportation
  • ‘B House’ has a positive effect on surrounding property values
  • Advocate for improved mental and physical health, quality of life, and independence for low-income seniors

INSPIRING THE B.A.R.E. TRUTH WAY

B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. has teamed up with Environmental Charter Middle School in Inglewood, California to mentor 7th and 8th grade boys. The Gentleman’s League course focuses on career and character development. The purpose of this elective is to work with students to communicate valuable career path options and share personal experiences. The instructor provides guidance, motivation, emotional support, and strong role modeling/mentorship throughout the course cycle.

B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. is committed to helping students explore career opportunities, strong goal orientation, trust building, and skill-awareness to assist with the youth’s personal and future professional growth. The video below shows the students expressing their experience with the Gentleman’s League course.

DONATION CHART AND HOW TO POSITIVELY IMPACT LIVES

img_0897

 

B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. SHIRTS & UPCOMING HARVEST FEST

AVAILABLE NOW! AVAILABLE NOW!

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS QUALITY SHIRTS AND BRACELETS

Join B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. to honor all breast cancer survivors. Contact us for more information.

6b8c4f97-3beb-4bee-b74c-c47acb429069

img_0890
JOIN B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. ON SATURDAY, OCT. 26, 2019 FOR AN AMAZING HARVEST COMMUNITY FESTIVAL

UPCOMING CALENDAR EVENTS – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

  • Saturday, November 09, 2019 – Homeless / Skid Row Outreach. We will feed, provide water and pass out hygiene bags.

  • Time: 9: 00 a.m. at the ‘B House’ to prepare food, then heading out to Skid Row at 11 a.m.
  • Location: 6th and Wall St. (Skid Row); email B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. for more information on itinerary.
  • Items we need: turkey meat, cheese, socks, water, backpacks, hygiene products, blankets, nail clippers, hand towels, tents, adult clothes and adult shoes.

B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. host events monthly and your support either in a monetary form or other donations is greatly appreciated. Please connect with us!! Can we count on you with a monthly monetary donation of $5, $10, $20, or more? Please note, ALL contributions help the clients we serve! JOIN US AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Please Sign Up or Donate, link available below.

For those who would like to volunteer,  but you are not able to, then donating is an option too!

DONATE AND CLICK HERE (EASY & SECURE):

LINK: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/NDY0ODQ=

  • ALL YOUR DONATIONS ARE 100% TAX DEDUCTIBLE.

REASONS TO VOLUNTEER

  • Be part of the solution – key to a life of happiness.
  • Level up your passionate interest and skills – what are you passionate about?
  • Pay-it-forward – practice gratefulness!
  • Empower people to be their best selves – help others succeed!
  • Create more positive experiences by – contributing time or money.

REFERENCES
Brisson, A. (2014). Impact of affordable housing on families and communities: A review of the evidence base. (Report No. 13210). Retrieved from Enterprise Community Partners, Inc. website: https://www.enterprisecommunity.org/resources/impact-affordable-housing-families-and-communities-review-evidence-base-13210

By Maria I. Castro, MPA
Chief Editor
Contact Us
B.A.R.E. Truth Inc.
Los Angeles, CA
Email: BARE.truth3@gmail.com
Website: http://www.baretruthinc.org

Date: 10/10/2019

© 2019 B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. – Making copies or using of any part of the B.A.R.E. TRUTH News Blog or website for any purpose other than your own personal use is prohibited unless written authorization is first obtained from B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC.

Continue reading “B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. KEY SERVICES”

A SEASON OF HAPPINESS – B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC.

If you woke up today in a warm bed, covered by soft blankets, and had the luxury to place your head on a comfortable pillow, then you are blessed. Many individuals who are experiencing homelessness during this season do not have the luxury of waking up in a home environment like yours. During this season of giving and reflection, should we use our blessings to bless others?

It is not how much we give but how much love we put into giving. – Mother Teresa

Would you like to reap the benefits of giving? Research suggests there are benefits from donating to charities or volunteering your time, such as a homeless shelter or a homeless outreach event.

According to Harvard Business School Professor Michael Norton and two colleagues from the University of British Colombia, money cannot buy love, but it can buy happiness—as long as it is spent prosocially on others. Michael Norton, Elizabeth Dunn, and Lara Aknin’s article, “Spending Money on Others Promotes Happiness,” appeared in the March 2008 issue of Science. They explored ways on how to uncover the influences in which money may lead to happiness.  They conducted a number of studies from national surveys to a field study. In this field study, they examined the spending behavior of employees at a Boston-based company; specifically on how these employees spent a profit-sharing bonus and how it impacted their long-term happiness. Let’s discover how they examined their predictions.

Their cross-sectional survey research led to show that money can buy happiness, when people spend money prosocially on others (e.g., donating to charities, giving to friends or non-profits, etc.) rather than on themselves (e.g., buying flat-screen televisions or smart phones). They surveyed a national sample of 632 Americans to rate their general happiness, report their annual income, and estimate how much money they spent in a typical month on bills, gifts for themselves, gifts for others, and donations to charity. They used a regression analysis (predictive method) that investigates the relationship between independent/explanatory (e.g., personal spending, prosocial spending, and income) and dependent/outcome (e.g., general happiness) variables.

In this initial investigation, entering the personal and prosocial spending indices simultaneously into a regression predicting general happiness revealed that personal spending was unrelated to happiness, but higher prosocial spending was associated with significantly greater happiness (Dunn, Aknin, & Norton, 2008). One of the benefits of giving is feeling greater happiness. To validate this interpretation, Professor Michael Norton and colleagues examined the happiness of 16 employees at a Boston-based company before and after they received a profit-sharing bonus ($4918.64 average amount) from their company. Next, in the same predictive method, they examined the relationship between the national sample variables and the Boston study field variables. What did this powerful statistical method revealed? It revealed that prosocial spending was the only significant explanatory variable of happiness. The way in which the Boston employees decided to spent their bonus was a more important predictor of their happiness than the bonus amount.

Professor Michael Norton and colleagues did not stop there. They searched for further evidence by examining the happiness of 46 participants. This experiment included a pre-test and a post-test on participant happiness. This means participants rated their happiness in the morning and after 5 p.m. the same day. Additionally, the participants were given $5 or $20 to spend by 5 p.m. the same day. In this experiment, participants were randomly assigned to the personal spending condition or the prosocial spending condition. This analysis revealed that very minor alterations in spending allocations—as little as $5—may be sufficient to produce significant gains in happiness on a given day (Dunn, Aknin, & Norton, 2008).

Why is this valuable or important for us to know? It’s easy to overlook the benefits of giving or investing in prosocial spending. Nevertheless, this is an opportunity to understand that encouraging others to give can positively increase happiness—in which may lead to a contagious spur of a ripple effect of generosity through our community. This time of giving can uniquely be transformed into a season of happiness. Why not!?!? Join B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. in this movement of happiness!



B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. appreciates all the volunteers and donors that generously invest with either their time or money to positively impact our clients. Let’s take a look at what happiness looks like when giving to others prosocially.

 

Students from UCLA, USC, El Camino and Southwest join B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. last month to help and assist in our homeless outreach.

 

 

B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. Team Spreading the Joy of Giving

 

 

Joseph Bradford III on a mission to Coach and Inspire our Youth during the Gentlemen’s League course

 

Remember that the happiest people are not those getting more, but those giving more. – H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

UPCOMING CALENDAR EVENTS – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

  • October 12, 2019- Homeless / Skid Row Outreach. We will feed, provide water and pass out hygiene bags.

  • Time: 9: 00 a.m. at the ‘B House’ to prepare food, then heading out to Skid Row at 11 a.m.
  • Location: 6th and Wall St. (Skid Row); email B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. for more information.
  • Items we need: turkey meat, cheese, socks, water, backpacks, hygiene products, blankets, nail clippers, hand towels, tents, adult clothes and adult shoes.

B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. host events monthly and your support either in a monetary form or other donations is greatly appreciated. Please connect with us!! Can we count on you with a monthly monetary donation of $5, $10, $20, or more? Please note, ALL contributions help the clients we serve! JOIN US AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Please Sign Up or Donate, link available below.

For those who would like to volunteer,  but you are not able to, then donating is an option too!

DONATE AND CLICK HERE (EASY & SECURE):

LINK: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/NDY0ODQ=

  • ALL YOUR DONATIONS ARE 100% TAX DEDUCTIBLE.

REASONS TO VOLUNTEER

  • Be part of the solution – key to a life of happiness.
  • Level up your passionate interest and skills – what are you passionate about?
  • Pay-it-forward – practice gratefulness!
  • Empower people to be their best selves – help others succeed!
  • Create more positive experiences by – contributing time or money.

REFERENCES
Dunn, E. W., Aknin, L. B., & Norton M. I.  (2008). Spending money on others promotes happiness. Science, 319(5870), 1687-1688. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1150952

By Maria I. Castro, MPA
Chief Editor
Contact Us
B.A.R.E. Truth Inc.
Los Angeles, CA
Email: BARE.truth3@gmail.com
Website: http://www.baretruthinc.org

Date: 10/10/2019

© 2019 B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. – Making copies or using of any part of the B.A.R.E. TRUTH News Blog or website for any purpose other than your own personal use is prohibited unless written authorization is first obtained from B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC.

 

B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. News

In the month of August 2019, B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. experienced exciting milestones. Our ‘Back To School Extravaganza’ was a GIANT success and new partnerships are creating opportunities for our youth. B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. is grateful for every opportunity, but most importantly we could not accomplish this breakthrough without our donors and volunteers! The compassion all donors and volunteers show to the people we serve is an inspiration for us all. Thank you for treating everyone with respect and kindness, no matter the situation. You are all such an important part of our organization, and B.A.R.E Truth, Inc. hopes you know that.

BACK TO SCHOOL EXTRAVAGANZA

In mid-August 2019, B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc.’s ‘Back to School Extravaganza’ at Troost Park and Greg Klice Community Center located in Kansas City, Missouri was an amazing experience for the area youth and a rewarding one for the B.A.R.E. Truth Team. Kansas City is Joseph Bradford III’s hometown and this event is close to his heart. Joseph’s vision has always been to pay-it-forward to his hometown and make a difference in the lives of those who need it the most. The Troost Park Back to School was a free event for Kansas City area families and children. They received clothing items, backpacks filled with supplies, hygiene products, free haircuts, fun games, free food, face painting, and a bounce house for the kids. There were guest speakers in the Greg Klice Community Center, including 200 backpacks available for the area kids. The photos below present some of the area families and children that enjoyed the event.

_1140181

img_6191

_1140303

img_6228

img_6211

BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS

B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. is excited about a new and eagerly awaited partnership. We have teamed up with Environmental Charter Middle School in Inglewood, California to teach 7th and 8th grade boys. The Gentleman’s League course focuses on career and character development. The purpose of this elective is to work with students to communicate valuable career path options and share personal experiences. The instructor will provide guidance, motivation, emotional support, and strong role modeling/mentorship throughout the course cycle. B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. is committed to helping students explore career opportunities, strong goal orientation, trust building, and skill-awareness to assist with the youth’s personal and professional growth. We have been working on this partnership for over one year; a special THANK YOU to everyone that helped make this opportunity a reality. Our immediate goal for our youths is to positively influence lives for generations to come. The boys in the photo below expressed that they liked the class structure. The boys appreciated that the class was ‘strict’ because it pushes them to pay attention and others stated they enjoyed the class topics because it helps them in their personal lives.

course

A MINDSET OF GRATITUDE

According to Amy Morin, Psychotherapist and mental strength author, there are benefits to practicing gratefulness. Research reveals an attitude of gratitude has seven benefits:

-Attitude of Gratitude opens the door to more relationships because acknowledging other people’s contributions can lead to new opportunities.

-Gratitude improves physical health because grateful people experience fewer aches and pains, which likely contributes to further longevity.

-Gratitude improves psychological health because gratitude reduces large amounts of toxic emotions, including depression.

-Gratitude enhances empathy and reduces aggression because grateful people are more likely to behave in a prosocial manner and there is a decreased desire to seek revenge.

-Grateful people sleep better because those who spend just 15 minutes jotting down few grateful sentiments sleep longer.

-Gratitude improves self-esteem because studies show that gratefulness reduce social comparisons and grateful people are able to appreciate other people’s accomplishments.

-Gratitude increases mental strength because it does not only reduce stress, but it may help overcome trauma and foster resilience. 

B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. invites you to practice gratefulness all year-round, invest in positively influencing others, and contribute to efforts that help transform communities for generations to come.

UPCOMING CALENDAR EVENTS – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

  • Sept 14, 2019- Homeless / Skid Row Outreach. We will feed, provide water and pass out hygiene bags.

  • Time: 9: 00 a.m.
  • Location: 6th and Wall St. (Skid Row)
  • Items we need: socks, water, backpacks, hygiene products, blankets, nail clippers, hand towels, tents, adult clothes and adult shoes.

B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. host events monthly and your support either in a monetary form or other donations is greatly appreciated. Please connect with us!! Let B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. know, if we can count on a monthly monetary donation of $5, $10, $20, or more. All contributions help the clients we serve! JOIN US AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Please Sign Up or Donate, see link below.

For those who would like to volunteer,  but you are not able to, then donating is an option too!

DONATE AND CLICK HERE (EASY & SECURE):

LINK: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/NDY0ODQ=

  • ALL YOUR DONATIONS ARE 100% TAX DEDUCTIBLE.

REASONS TO VOLUNTEER

  • Be part of the solution – key to a life of happiness.
  • Level up your passionate interest and skills – what are you passionate about?
  • Pay-it-forward – practice gratefulness!
  • Empower people to be their best selves – help others succeed!
  • Create more positive experiences by – contributing time or money.

REFERENCES
Morin, A. (2014, November 23). 7 scientifically proven benefits of gratitude that will motivate you to give thanks year-round. Forbes. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/amymorin/2014/11/23/7-scientifically-proven-benefits-of-gratitude-that-will-motivate-you-to-give-thanks-year-round/#2a66defb183c

By Maria I. Castro, MPA
Chief Editor
Contact Us
B.A.R.E. Truth Inc.
Los Angeles, CA
Email: BARE.truth3@gmail.com
Website: http://www.baretruthinc.org

Date: 09/05/2019

© 2019 B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. – Making copies or using of any part of the B.A.R.E. TRUTH News Blog or website for any purpose other than your own personal use is prohibited unless written authorization is first obtained from B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC.

Localize Solutions to Homelessness – B.A.R.E TRUTH, INC.

The current likelihood of dumping, enclosing, and/or confining people who are struggling and experiencing homelessness to Skid Row in Downtown Los Angeles is increasing and becoming a problematic epidemic.

It would benefit our communities, if each city area creates a strategic plan to provide local services to their own neighbors who find themselves without a home.  B.A.R.E Truth, Inc. consults, collaborates, and helps partner agencies who are committed to seeking solutions to homelessness. This non-profit organization is open to collaborating with other agencies to provide wrap-around services. The goal would be to develop a one-stop-shop where each individual can achieve a successful ending. B.A.R.E Truth, Inc. starts every movement with the premise that every human has worth. If you want to impact someone’s life and you are interested in working with B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC., then feel free to reach out anytime. Let’s discuss on how we can collaborate and help our vulnerable population!

VISION

As a non-profit organization, B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. seeks to be a reminder of the vivid revelation of love, compassion, and service to impoverished individuals by providing opportunities to help them achieve purpose-driven lives and become the best version of themselves.

MISSION STATEMENT

B.A.R.E. Truth’s mission is to provide mentorship, independent living assistance and wellness services to impoverished individuals and families. Our mission is a continual commitment to helping them attain healthy and purpose-driven lives, ultimately changing the economic and living conditions of communities.

VALUES

Achieving B.A.R.E. Truth’s mission will require a commitment to the following:

  • Balance – Inner transformation and growth by building mental equilibrium, resilience, and self-awareness to find balance.
  • Ambition – Inner courage to leave the past behind and initiate a starting point to trigger motivation that will lead to achieve goals.
  • Respect – Acknowledgement of the potential and possibilities of oneself and others to inspire transformation.
  • Encouragement – Empowerment through group mentorship and training programs to build productive relationships, ultimately leveraging peer to peer positive engagement leading towards the desired individual change.

SOCIETY & THE CURRENT MINDSET

Quite often we describe or label people as ‘the homeless’ or ‘addicts’ or ‘lazy’ or ‘transients.’ These are people with value, made in the image of God, who are currently struggling and experiencing homelessness.

Individuals should not be defined or labeled solely by their current condition or their past. These people are mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, sons, and daughters. When we label other individuals, we don’t see their potential and the positive possibilities within them. By looking the other way and ignoring people, we dehumanize them and diminish their value. People who are homeless are often not only discriminated against because of their housing status, but also encounter discrimination for other reasons, such as drug addiction and mental illness. In 2013, a comprehensive study was conducted on ‘Public Attitudes about Persons with Drug Addiction (N=347) and Mental Illness (N=362)’ by Colleen L. Barry, PhD, MPP and others. A total population sample of 709 people were surveyed via a web-based national public questionnaire to compare attitudes about stigma, discrimination, treatment effectiveness, and policy support. In particular, these respondents also commonly experience mental illness and/or drug addiction, conditions which are subject to high levels of stigma in society (Barry, C. et al, 2014). According to the research result, 64% of respondents thought employers should be allowed to deny employment to persons with drug addiction compared with 25% who held a similar view for persons with mental illness (Barry, C. et al, 2014). Similarly, 54% thought landlords should be allowed to deny housing to a person with drug addiction compared to only 15% who had a similar view for persons with mental illness (Barry, C. et al, 2014). These negative views on drug addiction need a stigma-reduction approach in our societies, so that support as well as recognition for treatment and vital program services increase. The need for conversations on stigma-reduction approach among advocates, communities, and/or government agencies is required to aid those individuals suffering from addictions and critical mental health issues. It is time to redirect the focus to solutions and commitment to helping our vulnerable population.

B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. seeks to localize solutions in Los Angeles area and encourages those who want to increase awareness to join the ‘B House’ movement and help establish effective wrap-around services to our vulnerable population. The ‘B House’ is the housing plan that B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. offers to the individuals and families in need. This non-profit organization needs your help to increase awareness in treatability, reducing stigma on substance abuse, and maintain effective all-inclusive services to individuals experiencing homelessness, substance abuse, and mental illness. B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. is working endlessly to foster connections for stable and sustainable housing.

B.A.R.E TRUTH, INC. FOCUSING ON TRANSFORMING LIVES

 

 

img_3224

In the picture above shows B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. collaborating with Pretty Women Pray Not Prey Non-Profit, a motivational speaker was  visiting the ‘B House’ encouraging women on wellness and health options.

img_2101

 

UPCOMING CALENDAR EVENTS – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

  • July 20, 2019- Homeless / Skid Row Outreach. We will feed and pass out hygiene bags.

  • Aug 17 & 18, 2019- Interactive Back To School Event in Kansas City, MO.

  • Sept 14, 2019- Homeless / Skid Row Outreach. We will feed and pass out hygiene bags.

For those who would like to volunteer,  but you are not able to, then donating is an option too.

DONATE AND CLICK HERE (EASY & SECURE):

LINK: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/NDY0ODQ=

  • ALL YOUR DONATIONS ARE 100% TAX DEDUCTIBLE.

REASONS TO VOLUNTEER

  • Be part of the solution – key to a life of happiness.
  • Level-up your passionate interest and skills – what are you passionate about?
  • Pay-it-forward – practice gratefulness!
  • Empower people to be their best selves – help others succeed!
  • Create more positive experiences – by contributing time or money.

References

Barry, C. & McGinty, E. & Pescosolido, B. & Goldman H. (2014). Stigma, discrimination, treatment effectiveness and policy support: Comparing public views about drug addiction with mental illness. Psychiatr Serv., 65 (10), 1269-1272.

By: Maria I. Castro, MPA
Chief Editor
Contact Us
B.A.R.E. Truth Inc.
Los Angeles, CA
Email: BARE.truth3@gmail.com
Website: http://www.baretruthinc.org

Date: 07/11/2019

© 2019 B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. – Making copies or using of any part of the B.A.R.E. TRUTH News Blog or website for any purpose other than your own personal use is prohibited unless written authorization is first obtained from B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC.

LEADING FROM THE HEART – B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC.

Transformational Leadership

Leaders seek ways to help themselves and others to reach positive outcomes. They establish a direction, develop an inspiring vision, and create something new. Leadership is about mapping-out where you need to go to ‘win’ as a team or an organization; this plan scales into a dynamic, exciting, and inspiring process. Life offers only few opportunities that can be considered transformational-worthy. This could be instances that happen unexpectedly and can have a strong impact to the world around us.

Between 1998-2008, nonprofit creation increased at a record pace of 30.7%, while revenues of reporting nonprofits increased 39.5% (Wing, Roeger, & Pollak, 2010). However, charitable giving by individuals in the U.S. fell by nearly 15%, adjusting for inflation, between 2008-2012 due to the economic hardships beginning in 2007. The ongoing U.S. recession caused nonprofit organizations to face increasing financial challenges and mounting pressure to maintain a highly productive workforce in order to effectively accomplish their visions (Freeborough & Patterson, 2015). The recession affected not only charitable giving, but also individuals like Joseph Bradford III, who desired to create a nonprofit organization that can lead and serve from the heart. His two major challenges in creating the nonprofit organization was finance barriers and not having a strategic plan.  

By the end of 2013, Joseph Bradford III started mapping-out a direction by envisioning a non-profit organization that can positively impact communities. Joseph Bradford III  gained flexibility and started to save money (not only for his personal emergencies). He began investing in the vision that rested deep in his soul. Henceforth, his vision to lead a nonprofit organization suddenly became a possibility. He could have easily decided to live a life of self-investment and indulgence by focusing on buying a dream home, investing in retirement, buying a luxury car, maximizing personal interest-rates, and perhaps even vacationing often. However, life gave him an opportunity to make a dream a reality – to lead, serve, and transform communities. This was the moment he wanted his vision to inspire others who experienced the same or worst hardships in life. Joseph’s leadership aims to transform those around him. He is dedicated to inspire and empower those who are part of his team. Transformational leadership creates valuable and positive change in the followers with the end goal of developing followers into leaders.

B. A. R. E. Truth’s Transformational Leadership Useful Techniques:

  • Develop a vision that will challenge and engage team members
  • Connect the vision to a strategy that focuses on ‘how to’ reach goals as a team
  • Finalize the vision by identifying specifics and converting it into actions
  • Express commitment, determination, decisiveness, optimism about the vision and the roll-out plan
  • Embrace the vision through small steps and accomplishments leading to its full implementation
  • Appreciate obstacles and challenges as they reveal opportunities for improvement

Homelessness is a problem that B.A.R.E. Truth focuses on solving. The goal to solve homelessness can only be completed through the commitment of inspired volunteers and supporters. B.A.R.E. Truth has been able to attract individuals who want to be part of the vision and the transformation of communities in need. Transformational leaders attract greater numbers of employees/volunteers when encouraging followers’ creativity through arousing awareness of how problems can be solved (Freeborough & Patterson, 2015). B.A.R.E. Truth identifies the problems at hand, yet focuses on the solutions and possibilities with optimism. The supporters and volunteers of B.A.R.E. Truth are the key individuals who convert the vision into actions. B.A.R.E. Truth has great admiration and appreciation for the supporters and volunteers who commit on the day-to-day responsibilities.

Homeless Outreach Outcomes and Exciting Events

B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. has some exciting accomplishments to report. Throughout the first quarter of 2019 (i.e., January to March), homeless individuals received meals, hygiene products, and clothing. The homeless outreach breakdown is listed below:

2019 Quarter-One Services

B.A.R.E. Truth Impact

Meals & Hygiene Products

  • Served 950 individuals with meals
  • Served 475 individuals with hygiene products

Clothing

  • Served 300 individuals with clothing

This could have not been possible without the volunteers who woke up in the early mornings on scheduled dates with a purpose – to help those in our communities.  The efforts and commitment go beyond the surface. To all the supporters and volunteers, YOU MATTER!

img_2503

B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. VOLUNTEERS & SUPPORTERS

Serving Clothingd39aad59-c5f1-4891-8027-4f50548e072d

img_1665.jpg

To lead is to serve and to serve is to love one-another. During the homeless outreach events in Los Angeles, B.A.R.E. Truth volunteers made it possible for individuals in need to have the basic essentials to survive. B.A.R.E.  Truth is an environment where you can make a difference. If you join this organization, what contribution would you be part of? Answer: Transforming one community at a time by leading from the heart.

Check out more pictures and videos, CLICK HERE:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwPhMSkAhEa/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=1dzr5nxl640ix

Housing Program Grand Opening

img_2511

The support on April 13th at B.A.R.E. Truth’s grand opening for the housing program was extraordinary. In the above picture, friends and dedicated volunteers are with Joseph Bradford III. Ready to serve and to encourage!

BBQ at the ‘B-House’

img_1751.jpg

On the above picture, Joseph Bradford III is on the grill at the Housing Grand Opening in South Los Angeles. Volunteers and housing residents came together to celebrate.

Motivational Public Speaking and Interviews

img_1806.jpg

Joseph Bradford III participates in radio interviews to talk about what inspires him to do what he does and how does he manage it. In the month of April 2019, he has interviewed in KIIS FM 102.7, KYSR FM 98.7, KLAC AM 570, and KRRL FM 92.3, to name a few.

The Source LA + B.A.R.E. Truth, Inc. Seminar

Do you want to learn how to start a transitional house & be successful?

Come and learn from Joseph Bradford III and others.

Date and Time: April 27th from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

img_1762

For Tickets: SUCCESSFULTRANSITIONALHOMESTARTUP.EVENTBRITE.COM                                                  Hurry, tickets are selling fast!!!

UPCOMING CALENDAR EVENTS – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

  • Apr 27, 2019 – Transitional House Start-up Seminar in Los Angeles
  • May 5, 2019 – Homeless Outreach in Atlanta
  • May 18, 2019 – Homeless / Skid Row Outreach. We will feed and pass out hygiene bags.
  • Jun 15, 2019 – Homeless / Skid Row Outreach. We will feed and pass out hygiene bags.

For those who would like to volunteer,  but you are not able to, then donating is an option too.

DONATE AND CLICK HERE (EASY & SECURE):

LINK: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/NDY0ODQ=

  • ALL YOUR DONATIONS ARE 100% TAX DEDUCTIBLE.

REASONS TO VOLUNTEER

  • Be part of the solution – key to a life of happiness.
  • Level-up your passionate interest and skills – what are you passionate about?
  • Pay-it-forward – practice gratefulness!
  • Empower people to be their best selves – help others succeed!
  • Create more positive experiences – by contributing time or money.

References

Freeborough, R. & Patterson, K. (2015). Exploring the effect of transformational leadership on nonprofit leader engagement. Servant Leadership: Theory and Practice, 2 (1), 49-70.

Wing, K.T., Roeger, K.L., & Pollak, T.H. (2010). The Nonprofit Sector in Brief: Public 
Charities, Giving and Volunteering. Washington, DC: The Urban Institute. Retrieve from http://urban.org

By: Maria I. Castro, MPA
Chief Editor
Contact Us
B.A.R.E. Truth Inc.
Los Angeles, CA
Email: BARE.truth3@gmail.com
Website: http://www.baretruthinc.org

Date: 04/21/2019

© 2019 B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. – Making copies or using of any part of the B.A.R.E. TRUTH News Blog or website for any purpose other than your own personal use is prohibited unless written authorization is first obtained from B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC.

B.A.R.E. TRUTH’S BACKGROUND AND NEWS

B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. stands for balance, ambition, respect, and encouragement. The non-profit organization aims to help those who are experiencing hardships, substance abuse, mental health difficulties, homelessness, and unfortunate life-altering events. The organization leads with a passionate philanthropic perspective and seeks community transformation.

FOUNDER’S HOMELESSNESS EXPERIENCE

Founder Joseph Bradford III has experienced first-hand what it feels to live from shelter to shelter and what it means to be raised by a single parent. His passion to help the community started at an early age. At the tender age of seven, Joseph’s father passed away and within the same year became homeless and lived in shelters with his mother and siblings. Joseph understood at an early age, that often-times good people experience extreme hardships and due to unforeseen circumstances can find themselves homeless and needing assistance.

Founder

At the age of nine, he witnessed his mother struggle economically, adversities in obtaining basic needs and dealing with abusive relationships. When he lived in Kansas City, Joseph worked at the age of nine to support his mother. He was inspired to continue in making a real lasting difference by strengthening not only his immediate family, but also communities. Joseph committed and dedicated himself to engage in efforts towards finding resolutions to the homelessness epidemic. He made it his mission to develop an organization with a focused objective. According to the 2018 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count, approximately 75% of 45,043 individuals experiencing homelessness were unsheltered (Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, 2018). This presents increased threats to health and safety risks. The long-term solution to this issue is housing; B.A.R.E. TRUTH is working endlessly to foster connections for stable and sustainable housing.

MISSION STATEMENT

B.A.R.E. TRUTH’s mission is to provide mentorship, independent living assistance and wellness services to impoverished individuals and families, helping them attain healthy, purpose-driven lives, ultimately changing the economic and living conditions of communities.

CONTINUED EFFORTS

Ongoing B.A.R.E. TRUTH’s philanthropic efforts are providing support to those individuals who dream for a better life, to those who need shelter, to those who are miles from home, and to those who are falling apart in circumstances that altered their livelihood. The non-profit organization meets individuals where they are and elevates them by providing basic needs. According to a motivational theory in psychology, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs argues that while individuals aim to meet basic needs, the ultimate-goal is to meet higher needs outlined in a five-tier model (Maslow, 2014). The human basic needs described as hierarchical levels consist of:

  • Physiological Needs: air, water, food, rest, health
  • Safety Needs: security, shelter, stability
  • Social Needs: being loved, belonging, inclusion
  • Ego: self-esteem, power, recognition, prestige
  • Self-Actualization Needs: development and creativity

B.A.R.E. TRUTH’s end-goal is to touch the lives of each individual it reaches by providing support and transformation opportunities, so each individual can meet their basic needs and beyond. In 2018, 1467 meals were served, outreach services were provided in six communities in four States, and 25 families were connected to housing. The target for 2019 is double or triple the impact to individuals and families who are in need of food, shelter, belonging, self-esteem, and growth opportunities. These positive outcomes cannot be reached without the assistance and support of a dedicated community and team members. Join the positive community transformation efforts! Volunteers are needed for upcoming efforts:

  • Apr 13, 2019 – Homeless / Skid Row Outreach. We will feed and pass out hygiene bags. Accepting donations of hygiene products, turkey meat, cheese, bread, and items for a barbecue.
  • Apr 13, 2019 – Transitional House Grand Opening in South LA. Come celebrate the organization’s opening. Accepting barbeque items for the residents and gathering.
  • Apr 27, 2019 – Transitional House seminar in Los Angeles
  • May 5, 2019 – Homeless Outreach in Atlanta
  • May 18, 2019 – Homeless / Skid Row Outreach. We will feed and pass out hygiene bags.

Recent homeless outreach video available here: https://instagram.com/p/BvUEprTA5GW/

DONATE AND CLICK HERE (EASY & SECURE):

LINK: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/NDY0ODQ=

  • ALL YOUR DONATIONS ARE 100% TAX DEDUCTIBLE.

REASONS TO VOLUNTEER

  • Be part of the solution – key to a life of happiness.
  • Level up your passionate interest and skills – what are you passionate about?
  • Pay-it-forward – practice gratefulness!
  • Empower people to be their best selves – help others succeed!
  • Create more positive experiences – by contributing time or money.

References

Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority. (2018, July 31). Greater Los Angeles homeless count. Retrieved from https://www.lahsa.org/dashboards?id=13-count-by-city-community

Maslow, A. (2014). A Theory of Human Motivation. Floyd, VA: Sublime Books.

By Maria I. Castro, MPA
Chief Editor
Contact Us
B.A.R.E. Truth Inc.
Los Angeles, CA
Email: BARE.truth3@gmail.com
Website: http://www.baretruthinc.org

Date: 03/27/2019

© 2019 B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC. – Making copies or using of any part of the B.A.R.E. TRUTH News Blog or website for any purpose other than your own personal use is prohibited unless written authorization is first obtained from B.A.R.E. TRUTH, INC.