TRIGGER WARNING: Mental Health, Guns, Shootings Over the past several months, Sweet Oak Collaborative has been focusing on mental health needs, the resources and support necessary for those struggling with mental illness, and pursuing solutions for what is sorely lacking in our city. We are learning about the large numbers...
We are always thankful when compassionate community members tag Sweet Oak Collaborative on a Facebook or Nextdoor post to get our attention, hoping we can assist with an urgent need. Sometimes we can, especially if it is a request for food or clothing. But often, it is a request for...
We rarely get the whole story on social media. When someone airs their grievances about a non-profit online, it is natural to feel for them. A short post can easily make it seem like an organization failed someone in need. What gets left out of the timeline, however, is the...
When someone in our community is in crisis, the instinct is often to offer immediate relief. It’s a beautiful sentiment, but true, lasting change requires a plan. What happens when the free hotel nights run out? Where do they go next? This is a question we answer every day at...
A message to our friends in the trenches—caseworkers, social workers, teachers, therapists, and anyone who engages daily with neighbors in need or families in crisis. I was recently reminded of a hard truth: not everybody who needs help wants the help. Very true. I receive texts and calls for help...
