Healing the Individual
By Gerri Graves
I’ll be the first to admit, I have never been a fan of self help, counselors or psychiatrists. Blame it on the terrible experience after my daughter’s death. Or maybe it’s about how we love to dissect someone’s personality, and assign them some toxic moniker. Or perhaps it’s the whole ‘fluffy bunny’ approach to self love, while it feels like the world is imploding. But I think it’s the whole Freud of it all. Another human being telling another human being where they’re flawed. Don’t come for me. I know my opinion is somewhat pigeonholed.
I only feel the need to mention this....well, because there’s always someone out there that will surprise you. Life loves its curve balls. She learned empathy from an early age, via her large family. Complete with siblings 3 and nurturing parents.
Her mother stayed home with the children, while her father toiled at back breaking work at a coal mine in Wyoming. Surrounded by grandparents as well, that doted on the children and were involved in their upbringing.
Her mother set a meal every night, often feeding her children’s friends. The family had an open door policy. All were welcome and I personally envisioned a warm atmosphere layered with the smells of a hot meal, barking dogs and children’s laughter. When she spoke of her childhood, it was laced with beautiful memories of toads let loose in the family car, Grandpa’s false teeth
stuck in her hoodie, rough housing with her siblings, camping trips and parents that always made them feel wanted, appreciated and seen.
I think my favorite stories of her were the stories of her early sense of empathy relayed by her mother.
She talked of not letting her daughter watch the news, because she took everything to heart.
Spying a homeless family living in their car in the parking lot of a K-mart, she insisted that her mother find out what they needed. She was only 8, but fearless on her approach for information from the family. Her mother did purchase the items and they were delivered by her wee hands, to the people who thanked her.
She also volunteered at an elderly retirement home, where she listened to their stories, played games and gave of her time.
These stories give you a small glimpse of what would become more than a job, a calling.
She nannied for a few years. Nurturing and loving on children that were not hers, but were her heart nonetheless. I imagine this enticed her into wanting children of her own.
She married for 15 years, but it ended in a rather tumultuous divorce. Luckily, she bore two gorgeous children who are bright, talented, sensitive and loving, not unlike their mother.
They landed in Boise, during their marriage and it was here where she decided to head back to school. She took classes on mental health, substance dependency and prevention. Her interest fell on this subject of study, by a family member’s battle with addiction. She wanted to know more. She wanted to help break the vicious cycle her family member was going through. Her reasoning was selfless. That, directly from my notes of observation.
I might also add another point of inspiration. She spoke of a neighbor
battling with AIDS. This neighbor photographed and wrote about the people afflicted with this terrible disease to create a better understanding for those that might be fearful. (Ignorance breeds fear, after all)
Published a book about it.
She spent hours with this woman learning about AIDS and the struggles that came with the diagnosis.
It was through these experiences that she decided her life’s trajectory. She wanted to help others. The more she learned, the more she discovered underlying causes and the people around them that loved them.
She realized it had a lot to do with mental health. Not everyone comes from the canonized version of the nuclear family. Some lives were broken. Hopeless. Filled with grief and suicide ideation.
Sometimes, an addiction is just a means of self destruction or a deluded sense of coping with deeply rooted trauma.
After college, she began working for Interfaith Sanctuary in 2018 and set about providing a curriculum called “Project Wellbeing”.
Her method is not completely text book. It’s a little unorthodox. She’s incorporated meditation, breathing exercises, art, writing, gardening and focusing on the individual’s needs.
She works with a group, yes.....but she knows recovery doesn’t happen in a ‘one size fits all’ scenario. Healing begins when you address the individual’s trauma. One person at a time, while still heading a group.
She started the shelter paper and the art program. She has guest speakers that can relate with the guests’ experiences. She’s organized field trips to parks, museums, art events and Idaho’s raptor sanctuary. She’s also worked with artists from local high schools that have come in to work together with the homeless community to create something wonderful together.
She thinks out of the box.....and the guests are better for it.
She doesn’t just talk about mental health and addiction, she shows them an avenue to move forward on. What life looks like when you’re not using it. What it could be. To me, that’s the best part about everything she’s done. She’s not only focusing on the bad bits, she’s showing them life outside four walls and addiction. She’s providing coping skills and reasons to elevate the individual above the worst thing they’ve ever done.
It’s not about shaming and repentance, it’s about second chances and learning to forgive yourself. To rise above a past that some seemed destined to live in for the rest of their lives. Hope.
Nicki is a beautiful person, both inside and out. She’s motivated to walk in these dark places with people that have lost their way. When friends, family.......the community, have deemed these human beings as forever lost, she’s at the finishing line telling societies to throw aways, that they’re worth that second chance.
She’s the last stop of an upended life. She deserves accolades, praise and gratitude from this city, but she’s a quiet, unassuming woman that just happens to wear her heart on her sleeve. She doesn’t ask for praise. She just wakes up every morning, kisses her kids as they head off to school and prepares herself to save another life.
Nicki Vogel, is one of Boise’s unsung heroes.....and we, as a community, are made better because people like her exist.
Word on the Street
PO BOX 9334
511 S Americana Blvd
Boise, ID 83702
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Molly Balison
WOTS WRITERS/COLUMNISTS
Bo Gerri Graves
Viola Crowley
Nate Dodgson
Eric Endsley
Jodi Peterson-Stigers
Molly Balison
Nicki Vogel
WOTS Historian
Nicky MacAislin
WOTS STREET PHOTOGRAPHERS
Heather Baird
Gypsy Wind
Eric Endsley
ART COLLECTIVE DIRECTOR
Chris Alvarez
CONTACT THE EDITOR
To submit story ideas or community articles, please send request and information to molly@interfaithsanctuary.org
By Bo
When I’m constantly sinning how can you still love me
When rules I’m constantly bending how can you still show peace
When I be constantly grinning doing my thing in these streets
Bridges you constantly mending wrapping your arm’s around me
Hold me with your tinder embrace
I don’t have to see you in face
That’s why I’m saved by Grace
I can see you in faith
I can see you in my daughter every time that she smiles
I can see you in my brother even though he laid down
I can see you in my Mother Even though she sleeps now
I can see you in myself as these words I
POETRY CORNER
Muffins for Leo
By Al
(A Song of Love & Remembrance)
[Verse 1]
Flour on my hands, sugar on the table, Stirring up the memories, keeping love stable.
The oven glows like a beacon bright, Bringing warmth to the coldest night.
[Pre-Chorus]
And I hear your laughter in the rising dough, Feel your kindness in the way it grows. Every spice, every tear, every song we’d hum, Leo, you’re here in every crumb.
[Chorus]
So I bake these muffins for those in need,
A little bit of love, a simple deed.
Soft and warm like a hand to hold, A taste of home when the world feels cold.
[Verse 2]
Out on the streets, where the nights run long, Where hearts stay strong, but the days feel wrong.
A paper bag, a muffin inside, A little light where the dark collides.
[Pre-Chorus]
And I hear your voice in the rising steam, A whisper of hope, a beautiful dream. Every spice, every tear, every song we’d hum, Leo, you’re here in every crumb.
[Chorus]
So I bake these muffins for those in need,
A little bit of love, a simple deed. Soft and warm like a hand to hold, A taste of home when the world feels cold.
[Bridge]
Maybe it’s small, just flour and care, But love is a meal that’s meant to be shared.
For every soul with nowhere to go, Here’s a piece of you, dear Leo.
[Outro]
Flour on my hands, sugar on the table, Love doesn’t fade, it just turns faithful.
A muffin, a song, a name to keep, Leo, you live in the hearts we feed.
lay down
I can see you everyday when I walk in these streets
I see the birds i see the fish i see the people I see the trees
I see the mountains I see the sky
I see the desert’s I see the seas
I see your love, I see Grace.
I see hate I see envy
I see wars I see killing and never is there peace but I keep my faith because it was all
prophecy
Heavenly Father
My Heavenly Father, Father
I’ll try I’ll try harder harder
My Heavenly Father, Father promise to get wiser wiser
My Heavenly Father, Father why do you even bother bother
my sins are getting wider wider
My Heavenly Father, Father
Texas Coven Part 2
By Eric Endsley
This is my life and it’s been real, My thoughts and actions were not concealed, I’m not in the right body, can we please make a deal.
I don’t mean race wise, wish those comments would subside “Whitest black boy ever” and with that, relationships severed ties.
“I’ll never know what it’s like” you may be kinda right, But I go through things dude they never asked, never cared to. It’s not my fault I was adopted. I wish they would just say they got it! And helped me grow into someone else to be honest.
Adoption as needed on cue.
But my blood I’m sorry I dunno who I belong to.
I’m not like you I wish it wasn’t true but I’ll find a way to make due.
If God gave me powers I’d not be so sour, I’d bid myself accepted, Like fuel unleaded and the eye I’ve ingested, and it’d be the swine that I have bested.
They aren’t tired and they haven’t rested.
I’m the one that’s being tested.
This must be a joke, it’s gotta be a Hoax, it’s not fair that I’m different kind of bloke.
How do I survive? Do I even have a place?
You see now life’s been a slow pace.
I believe in threes they happen to me in ease, Ran away from Twin Falls after 3 years of sleaze.
Is God not here either, I just need a breather.
If I die will I form a new body? Would I still be a man eater?
My lust runs strong my lust runs deep.
In My Darkest Hour
By Viola Crowley
In my darkest hour, you have abandoned me. When I needed you the most where were you? Not by my side, not holding me tight, not comforting me.
I was left alone to feel abandoned and unloved, exhausted and frustrated, desperate and hopeless.
I begged you to come to me but instead you turned your back on me.
In my weakest moment, I confessed my honest need for you, for you to be there for me, to embrace me, to make me feel whole again.
I bare my soul to you and weep, only to hear my own sobs echoing in the
Shouldn’t have left me with Ricky, his touching me got too steep. Don’t touch children! Those who do! Kill them.
Undeserving to live, they left us their sin. We have to ease the pain we have to look within.
A God shouldn’t allow this to happen. My light dimmed and perpetually saddened.
I never asked to be made fun of, never asked to be maddened.
Can someone help me tweak this sober life I seek?
I’m always sad and feel degraded, my view of you officially jaded.
I’m so weird and people stare.
People make jokes there was no beware.
I know the world sucks and I’ve been cruel too, I’m trying to heal and do what good seeds do.
Unknown if it matters, I’m not sure what you’ve gathered.
Please I need peace.
My mind puts itself in grief.
I never want to show my face, I’d like to run and hide away, No trace the guilty shame of mistakes, and lack of brain cells in my case.
Doctor told ‘em I wouldn’t live to be a toddler.
Sometimes wish it reined true! Would that be a bother?
My parents must be sick, me living through that just to turn out like this, I’m hideous my actions are bared.
Not yet at my wits end I swear.
Happy New Year, keep me in mind if you dare, Those whom I’ve scarred or harmed in any way, I’m sorry.
No excuse but my brain was foggy, but I want to apologize.
It’s a huge longing.
Is there anyone else out there like me? I need more solving.
Get me off the slope I’m sliding.
I know right from wrong and I didn’t choose morals over wanting to belong.
emptiness that you left in your wake. Why have you abandoned me?
What did I do to deserve this feeling that things between us are not the way they should be and probably never will be?
Instead of facing the morning rested, renewed and ready to face the day, I feel a strong desire to curl up within myself to never emerge again.
No matter how much I love you, it’s never enough, nor will it ever be enough.
(During our WOTS editorial meeting, Viola shared the powerful meaning behind this poem. Written in the midst of a manic episode, she wrestled with days of sleeplessness, exhaustion, and frustration. These words are not directed at a person, but rather at sleep itself— something she desperately needed yet felt abandoned by. Through this poem, Viola gives voice to the raw emotions of longing, desperation, and the deep struggle of feeling disconnected from something so essential.)
ART COLLECTIVE
Why We Write
By WOTS Team
Writing is more than a composition of words on a page. It’s art, communication, skill, therapy. It conveys the deepest of concepts and evokes emotion by appealing to the reader’s conscience. The team of writers that makes Word on the Street possible shared their motivations for writing. Consider this a letter from us to you, dear reader.
Rising From the Ashes: Then and Now
By Nicky McAlvain
The wildfires in Los Angeles remind me of another fire that did tremendous damage: the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. The fire started on October 8th in and around a barn belonging to a family named O’Leary. The shed next to the barn was the first to be completely consumed by the blaze. The cause of the fire was never determined. The fire spread rapidly, due in part to a long drought and strong winds, as well as the destruction of the water pumping system. In addition most of Chicago’s City buildings were made
of wood, which provided the fuel which fed the Flames most of the buildings were topped with highly flammable tar or shingles. Adding to the problem was the one inch of rain the city received from July to October.
At this time the Chicago Fire Department had 185 firefighters but only 7 horse drawn stage pumpers. to protect the entire city. To add insult to injury, the Watchman sent the firefighters to the wrong place, which allowed the fire to grow in intensity. All of these errors combined to turn a small barn into a major disaster. By the time the fire was put out on October 10th the disaster had taken a tremendous toll; the fire had destroyed an area about 4 miles long and averaged about 3/4 of a mile wide. encompassing an area of more than 2,000 acres. More than 73 miles of roads, 120 miles of sidewalk, 2,000 lamp posts, 17,500 buildings and $222 mil-
lion in property were destroyed. The human toll included more than 300 dead and approximately 100,000 left homeless.
In the aftermath, cities from across the country and across the world sent donations of money, food , clothing and building supplies. Milwaukee, along with the other cities, sent firefighting equipment. In Grenock, Scotland, a town meeting raised £518 on the spot. New York City gave $450,000 St Jones gave $300,000 and the cities of Cincinnati, Cleveland and Buffalo gave hundreds of thousands of dollars.
A.H. Burgess of London suggested an “English Book Donation”. To begin a free library in chicago. more than 8,000 books were donated by the United Kingdom , Many of which were autographed by Queen Victoria herself from her private collection.
Although not the most catastrophic fire in the United States, the
Prestigio, Wisconsin Fire during the same year killed approximately 1,200 to 2,500 people, making it the deadliest fire in American history, seven is the best known. Chicago was able to rebuild in time for the 1893 world’s Columbian exposition. The new Chicago was made up of skyscrapers and fire resistant buildings made of brick, Stone and terracotta. The Chicago Tribune published Joseph Medillion — the election was a month after the fire — using the slogan “ no more fires because we’re to build with brick and stone.” He won with 73% of the vote and so Chicago was built to be fireproof.
Now that the fires in La are under control their thoughts will turn to rebuilding. I would like to send a huge thanks to those who helped the Los Angeles Fire Department with the horrible fires in January, especially the firefighters from Canada and Mexico.
Photo By Eric Endsley
Photo By Sara Walkee
Photos By Gypsy Wind
MARCHING ON
Responding with Understanding
By Molly Balison
On February 28, Ada County Paramedics Captain Jeremiah Wickham and Public Information Officer Ryan Larrondo paid a visit to the Word on the Street editorial meeting. A series of conversations about first responders’ interactions with citizens in the area surrounding Interfaith Sanctuary sparked the need to invite both parties into the discussion.
Janet Kaufman, supervisor of the anger management group Just Mad, helped facilitate the conversation where both guests and a first responder shared their experiences and perspectives with each other. Several Interfaith guests and staff stated they’ve felt disregarded as an inconvenience in prior interactions with first responders even though they called on those trained to help.
“I think we all want to understand the actions from this community that have led to that kind of treatment coming to us,”
Interfaith Sanctuary Executive Director Jodi Peterson-Stigers said to set the intention for the meeting. “We could learn more about that so we can understand and help to manage it so it’s a better experience for everyone.”
After 20 years of service to Ada County, Paramedics Captain Jeremiah Wickham explained how he’s observed the mutual frustration that stems from getting numerous calls from the same location or individuals. As the middle man for the emergency room and the person in need, if a paramedic receives irritation from the hospital, it may unintentionally be carried over to the patient.
Wickham reminded the group that paramedics are only allowed to take patients to the emergency room even though he would like the option to transport people to other supportive services such as Terry Reilly.
Viola Crowley experienced this irritation first hand when she was a guest at Interfaith and had a health emergency that lacked communication, reassurance
and understanding. To encourage rather than force compliance, paramedics need to communicate the urgency of an incident from a medical standpoint and Interfaith staff need to reassure guests that they will have a spot to sleep at the shelter.
It’s challenging for Interfaith Staff to help manage an individual’s mental health crisis in a 10,000 square foot facility in close proximity to other guests and staff. When the person becomes a danger to themselves or others, the only option left is for staff to call 911.
Nicki Vogel, director of Project Well Being, recalled how she called 911 after trying to help a woman who was experiencing a mental health crisis out in the middle of the street, but was not met with assistance. This raised the question: if both first responders and the shelter staff have limitations in how they can help, what can be done?
Wickham encouraged staff to not be fearful to call 911 and trust the paramedics to help.
“When the tones go off and we respond, it’s no different than anyone doing their job,” he said.
In these crisis situations, it’s as if trauma meets trauma. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, about 30% of first responders develop behavioral health issues such as PTSD and over 80% report experiencing trauma on duty. With 56 hour work weeks, this is a career that requires resilience to withstand the intensity.
The civil discussion allowed both parties to brainstorm solutions to foster empathy between homeless shelters and first responders. One idea was for Interfaith to host a meet and greet luncheon for guests and first responders to get to know each other and hear each other’s stories over a meal. The tension in the air at the beginning of the conversation melted and was replaced with excitement about creating relationships and rapport.
“We work so closely but our only interactions are quick handoffs,” Vogel said.
“If we’re familiar with each other, the next time we see each other we’re going to have
Road to Redemption Part 3: The Lord has Prepared a Place for You
By Bo
I bought a plane ticket to go see my kids with nowhere to live. I messaged people on Craigslist trying to find a room to rent and tried calling a few people but had no luck. My faith was being tested as I waited and waited. I told myself I would leave as soon as I got a definite “yes” on a place. Well, I never got that “yes”. But I was obedient and got on a plane anyway.
When I arrived in Boise I called the people from Craigslist and they said to come by a place that was available. Now the feeling of joy that fell upon me as I reflected on all that had happened and the over three year journey I had been on. Knowing that I was back in the same state as my kids and could feel their spirit was a feeling I could only explain as being equal to the day I cut their umbilical cords when they entered the world.
Two months before I saw my children, I sat in anxious anticipation, worried that maybe I wasn’t ready to see them. I wanted the time to be perfect. My, at the time, eight year old daughter, who is my best friend, was a month away from being eight years old. She kept asking me to get a place so
more trust in each other.”
Word on the Street’s photographer, Gypsy Wind, suggested that paramedics and guests reverse role play to reenact a situation in each other’s shoes. “Have real world classes here at the sanctuary and a focused group to teach the students lessons and teach our staff here etiquette…we come from a rough bunch,” he said.
Since education helps bridge the gap created by misunderstandings, another idea was to introduce a program for the unhoused population to network with the Ada County Paramedics Academy and learn what it takes to respond to a crisis.
Peterson-Stigers brought up that some neighbors surrounding the construction of a new shelter on State Street are concerned Interfaith Sanctuary would exhaust first responders’ resources. However, for Interfaith Sanctuary to obtain a conditional use permit, the facility is required to have medical personnel from Terry Reilly and Full Circle Health on site. The current shelter on River Street doesn’t have the capacity to give everyone 24/7 access to the facility, leaving them with no choice but to face the elements, stressors and dangerous situations on the streets resulting in more 911 calls in the area. However, the State Street shelter guests will have 24 hour access to the building which should
alleviate the influx of 911 calls.
Interfaith Sanctuary’s Director of Operations, Nathan Smith, said, “We’re all fatigued. We’re all bringing our own history, we’re all bringing the human elements together and we’re trying to function in a system that isn’t perfect and it takes a lot of compassion, a lot of understanding, a lot of trying to put ourselves in each other’s shoes. It’s about human connection too. We can improve those relationships so we can become more familiar with battalions”
Larrondo explained that if anyone has a negative experience with an EMT or paramedic, they can call the nonemergency dispatch line to reach a supervisor whom the paramedics report to. “We want to hear that feedback because we don’t want any of our providers going around being rude to our community members,” he said.
The WOTS team thanked Wickham and Larrondo for their service to the community and willingness to build relationships with the unhoused.
“Everybody involved, from the hospital to fire to us, everybody’s intentions are good. The way they come across may not be,” Wickham said. “You wouldn’t do this job if you didn’t have good intentions.”
she could stay. I told her I could either get a place but be broke and wouldn’t be able to get them toys for Christmas or I could wait for a place and get them a lot of stuff for Christmas. Do you know what she chose? She said she would rather me get a place and would be ok with zero presents. This child is and has always been just what her name meant in the book I choose it from — “a gift from God”.
I got a place and I got my children Christmas presents. I worked at Amazon for almost three years without a single write up or even a verbal warning — which is an achievement in this industry. I won’t get into all the details, but I will say that my foot is severely messed up now because of the work conditions and I was on workers compensation for a time. You could say I got played by the job and I’m still going through hard things because of it. Because of this turn of events, I ended up losing my job and my place which brings us to the last six months of my life.
This has all been a journey and part of my road to redemption. But this is where it starts to shape and mold itself and once again the test is on.
Ever wondered how Interfaith Sanctuary is tackling homelessness? Need answers to common questions about our new shelter on State Street? Word on the Web is your go-to resource for real answers, real stories, and real ways to make a difference. This podcast is all about education, advocacy, and transparency. Each episode gives you the chance to:
1) Get clear, honest answers to the most frequently asked questions about homelessness and our new shelter
2) Hear powerful stories from people with lived experience and those working on the frontlines
3) Discover ways to take action and support our mission
Hosted by Jodi Peterson-Stigers and Nathan Smith, the first episode is out now, diving into why we launched this podcast, what you can expect, and how we hope to spark meaningful conversations.
Word on the Web Episode 1 is at interfaithsanctuary.org/word-on-theweb/, Watch now and be part of the movement.
Idaho’s War on the Unhoused: Two Bills That Would Make Homelessness a Crime with No Solutions
By Word on the Street Staff
On March 10, two bills were introduced to the Senate Affairs Committee that, if passed, would make it nearly impossible to help our unhoused neighbors in Idaho. Senate Bill 1141 and Senate Bill 1166 work in direct opposition to each other— one criminalizes people experiencing homelessness, while the other prevents communities from expanding shelter services to house them.
SB 1141 seeks to make it illegal for individuals to sleep outside, essentially punishing those with nowhere else to go. Meanwhile, SB 1166 aims to restrict the expansion or creation of new shelters, cutting off the very resources necessary to move people off the streets. Together, these
bills leave unhoused individuals with no options—banned from sleeping in public but denied access to adequate shelter. These bills are a direct attack on efforts like the new Interfaith Sanctuary shelter currently under construction on State Street. This facility—funded entirely by private donors—was designed to provide 24/7 shelter and comprehensive support services to help individuals and families stabilize and rebuild their lives. If SB 1166 were to pass, this life saving project would not be possible. And if SB 1141 passes, even those who are waiting for shelter beds could face criminalization simply for existing outdoors.
This legislative attack on Idaho’s most vulnerable residents is not only inhumane
but also unworkable. Criminalizing homelessness does not solve it; it simply fills jails and burdens taxpayers with the cost of incarceration. Blocking shelter expansion only increases the crisis, forcing more people into unsafe conditions. Rather than enacting laws that punish poverty, Idaho lawmakers should be celebrating and supporting the agencies and partners who are investing in real solutions. If these bills concern you, now is the time to speak up. Contact your legislators, and ask them to vote NO SB 1141 and SB1166. The future of our community depends on our willingness to protect its most vulnerable members.
A Social Worker’s Mission
By Nate Dodgson
March is World Social Work Month and a useful platform upon which we can educate and spread awareness as well as recognize the friends and family of our community at Interfaith Sanctuary. There’s a lot that goes on at any emergency shelter and the fuel and glue which operates and keeps it together is the social workers. Case managers, directors, peer support, and various other service positions at Interfaith Sanctuary create a cohesive, constructive atmosphere which allows guests and those most vulnerable to respond and effectively recover and rebound from their current predicament. It takes a community with compassionate contributors in order to address and overcome the challenges and difficulties associated with homelessness. Social workers help clients improve their lives by referrals to resources as well as by monitoring their progress and assisting with life changes. Needless to say, social work is a high demand job- in more ways
than one. There will always be a need for social workers, and what’s needed from them is demanding in itself. Homelessness is an epidemic of our era and always has been stigmatized- even by the self-convicting soul. Today, we see homelessness spreading farther and deeper into the interior as rural America resumes suburbanization and gentrification. The infrastructure and populace render staggering concern for towns nationwide. There is an exhaustive list of reasons why some find themselves without a place to go and homeless for the night, but to start with a few core examples will help us gather an understanding from the sheer number that exists. Individuals are marginalized due to poverty, partner abuse, domestic violence, mental health issues, including substance abuse and addiction- but these are only a few of the exhaustive number of reasons why many end up “out on the curb”. Many individuals suffer from a mental or physical disability or severe bouts with depression and anxiety. Any issue relating to health and provision for physical, mental,
March Madness
By Bo
The term “March Madness” refers to the NCAA college basketball tournament because of the many games played in quick succession in March. The term was first used in 1939 by an Illinois high school official. But in regards to March Madness I had another thought.
Now that we are in the swing of things for the new year, most of us either didn’t bother to make a new year’s resolution or made too many unsuccessful ones. We may have already skipped that diet or three workouts a week that we promised to finally stick with this year. The key is not perfection, but instead consistency. With that being said we must not get back into the flow or our busyness as usual mentality. It’s easy to also forget to play nice or be kind or just remember the small things that matter.
So for this March let’s try and remind ourselves that March will be full of madness
and people who are going through things or maybe at their limits and are headed back to busyness as usual. But for us, let’s use this as a reset and get back or stay committed to whatever it is that we’re focused on. I want us to own this March as well as every Match from here on out.
emotional, and financial needs will be handled by a respective provider or social worker.
The core of Interfaith Sanctuary’s team strives to meet and achieve those objectives set out in the mission statement: “home for a warm meal and a safe place to lay your head for all genders, races, religions, and sexual orientation.” Traditions include in principle, “Respect, Compassion, Diversity, Collaboration, Integrity, Leadership, and Volunteerism.” Always. Remember. You Are Welcome Here!
diverse backgrounds continually challenge me to learn and grow, both personally and professionally, so that I can better serve our community.” - Stacey White
“I do this work out of a deep need to be of service to others. I have found my purpose through this work. It’s always about work.” - Terrance Sharrer
“I can’t imagine myself in any other career. I’ve always felt driven to serve and help others overcome life’s obstacles. My work allows me to advocate for social justice and systemic change, while building meaningful relationships with guests from all walks of life. Their
My Dear Addiction
By Viola Crowley
Dear Addiction,
When I first met you, I immediately fell in love without even realizing it. I thought we were just acquaintances. That you were just a visitor in my life. I had no idea what was happening. I thought I could hang out with you from time to time and still walk away. I thought you brought me happiness. Joy. Love. I felt welcomed without knowing you were building such a strong anchor in me. Did I enjoy my time with you? Yes. But every time I was away from you, there was chaos. I didn’t know the connection existed between the two. I couldn’t see that the chaos came from you because of the blinders you gave me. My life quickly spiraled out of control. I didn’t see it coming. All of a sudden it was too late. The bond was built. The boundaries destroyed. I couldn’t walk away. I felt alone. Unloved. Hopeless. Broken with each piece
“Well I like making people smile and if giving him something good to eat make some smile then I’m all for it” - Jeff Chapman
of me chained to you. I didn’t know where to turn. I didn’t trust anyone because I couldn’t trust myself. You were all I had. So I decided you were all that I needed. I lived this way for so long that I didn’t believe I deserved anything else. Then one day it happened. I found the key to those chains. I found love for myself. That loved turned into desire. That desire turned into trust . That trust turned into strength. I deserved love. Happiness. Hope. I deserved to be me again. So I took that key and one by one, I unchained those pieces of myself and put them back together. I’m not done yet. I’m still putting myself back together. But the bond I’m building with myself is stronger than the bond I had with you. Because I finally love me. I accept me. Trust me. I don’t need you anymore. I don’t want you anymore. I will not allow you to control me ever again. So this is my final goodbye.
Sincerely, Me
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
A Run, a Vision, and a Gift: How Cathedral of the Rockies Raised $100,000 for Interfaith Sanctuary
By Jodi Peterson-Stigers
On a beautiful blue-skied day, the leadership team from Cathedral of the Rockies gathered at Interfaith Sanctuary’s new shelter on State Street to present a check for $100,000.
This incredible gift came about in the most unexpected way. One day, while out running on a local trail, Jodi PetersonStigers, Interfaith Sanctuary’s executive director, spotted a figure in the distance. The way the sun hit him created an almost mystical glow—like a vision. As she got closer, she realized it was Pastor Duane of Cathedral of the Rockies, shirtless and mid-run, getting his miles in.
Jodi stopped to say hello, and in that moment, Pastor Duane shared something remarkable: He had been thinking about Interfaith’s new shelter and felt strongly that his church should pledge $100,000 to support it. Then, just like that, he continued on his run.
From that day forward, Cathedral of the Rockies set to work raising the pledged funds. Through plate offerings and
generous donations from congregants, they reached their goal in under a year. A couple of weeks ago, they let Interfaith know they had hit $95,000 and invited Jodi to a Sunday service to share an update on the new shelter’s progress.
Just two hours after she left, Jodi received a text from Pastor Duane with incredible news—not only had they reached their $100,000 goal, but they had surpassed it, with an additional $9,750 donated!
After the check presentation, Jodi took the leadership team on a tour of the new shelter they are helping to build. Walking through the space, they were overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness in design and the magnitude of services this new campus will offer to the guests we serve. Seeing firsthand the impact their generosity is helping to create made the moment even more meaningful.
This gift is a testament to the generosity and commitment of Cathedral of the Rockies and its congregation. Their unwavering support is helping make our vision for a safe, welcoming shelter a reality.
Community Heroes and Mortal Compassion
By Nate Dogson
There are reputed reasons why first responders are so esteemed and valued. They are real-life heroes, often-times sacrificing everything, including their own safety and lives, in order to help and save the lives of others. When there’s an emergency, first responders act and assess the problem. They treat those who require emotional and/or physical aid. First responders are the Band-Aid of society. They take an oath promising to serve the public as well as uphold their training and ethics.
That being said, first responders are not immortal and they have basic needs and vulnerabilities like every other person does. In fact, studies find that first responders not only face challenges relating to stress and risks of infection, but they are especially prone to mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, burnout, substance abuse, and even compassion fatigue. The selflessness, sacrifice, and nobility of first responders doesn’t nullify all the risks and potential danger associated with the occupation. First responders are exposed, up-close and personal- in the thick of it- when it comes
Catching up to Housing
By Molly Balison
The most exciting yet daunting news someone experiencing homelessness can receive is that the time has come for them to move into housing. Allen Miller, an Interfaith guest of seven years, received this news in February after being on the waitlist for housing a full year.
When asked how it felt receiving this long awaited news he said, “it’s scary.”
Although in Ada County 93% of folks who get into supportive housing stay housed, a misconception about the homeless community is that people’s problems are solved once they’re housed, but the reality is that people still require support from the community and sometimes accountability when they move into their own place.
For individuals like Miller, having a plan isn’t necessarily a priority. “It can be stressful especially if you’ve never had the opportunity, in such a fight or flight state for the majority of your life,” Rosie Lopez the program director for Our Path Home Connect within CATCH said. “You’ve always just been in a high crisis figuring out what you’re going to eat, where you’re going to sleep and that can be a brand new thing and very scary.”
In February 2024 Miller walked into CATCH’s coordinated entry on 503 S Americana Blvd to get a background check and apply to be on a housing waitlist. CATCH functions as a low barrier service to create equitable access for people whether they’re sheltered, unsheltered, living in their vehicle or fleeing from domestic violence.
Miller is grateful that his first and last month’s rent and deposit are covered by CATCH’s Linda Fund, a contribution from the City of Boise to help people secure stable housing. With this new level of responsibility added to his life, he’s determined to keep his housing by making sure he conducts himself well and visitors obey the rules.
peer support in close proximity to them.
Permanent, supportive housing like New Path Community Housing supports people with resources and programming built into the complex such as a Terry Reilly office. Interfaith Sanctuary brings their programming to housing such as Good Samaritan to keep people who have transitioned into housing connected with a community.
Luckily, Miller started finding community within his housing complex by simply introducing himself to folks smoking cigarettes beside him outside. As a man in his 60s who has been through the ringer, he still seeks support in his mental health journey by committing to Project Well Being after having his own place for three weeks.
to major incidents and disasters. The tax and toil of their position can be exhausting and detrimental to their own quality of life and health. Sound familiar? In many ways, first responders are subject to the same, but not all, horrors one would expect military service members to experience. But how can a first responder project compassion fatigue if they’ve taken an oath? The answer remains in what was related earlier: First responders are human beings with respective needs just like you and me. University of Washington advises staff such as “physicians, caregivers, and volunteers who help others” to address compassion fatigue by “being kind to yourself, be aware and educate yourself, practice acceptance, understand that those close to you may not be there when you need them most, exchange information and feelings with people who can validate what you’re experiencing, clarify your personal boundaries, express your needs verbally, and take positive action to change your environment.”
Other than “talking with someone you trust and taking care of yourself”, it is furthermore encouraged to alleviate compassion fatigue by “giving yourself time, to know your own limits, and to focus on the good you are doing.
“Sanctuary touched my heart,” he said. “I remember when I first got here…I was scared, I was frightened.” Miller recalled the hope that Interfaith gave him when we entered the shelter system as an anxious, broken man. Project Well Being equipped him with the tools and community he needed to care for his mental health. Not having this support be a part of his everyday life is an unknown transition he must navigate.
Sometimes people reenter homelessness and land back onto the waitlist for housing if they are not ready for the commitment of being a renter or find themselves feeling lonely and isolated from lack of support and community. For someone who has been surviving with the resources provided through the continuum of services and shelter, it can feel as if they are left to their own devices.
To address this need, CATCH implemented a map of support to bridge the gap in services after someone has moved into housing to connect people with agencies or
Lopez works with partners to engage in outreach, referring households to external and internal housing programs based on their needs and priorities. “We ask questions in our housing assessment to assess severity of needs and really assess priority for the most vulnerable,” she said. An outreach team goes into the field three times a week to build rapport and connect people who are further removed from resources. This includes pop ups at the homeless shelters every other week in the evenings and Public Libraries during the day to give people a connection point.
Lopez plays an important role in consulting with guests about budgeting, background and ability to uphold renter responsibilities. She said she wants to ensure the individual or household is comfortable through the whole process by “walking alongside the person and letting them make the decisions while having all the options on the table.” This is how CATCH takes a proactive approach to setting people up for success.
“When folks are in a high crisis you don’t necessarily think of all the small details so we want to make sure that people have what they need and it’s a good setup for them overall,” Lopez said.
Thank you to our volunteers who serve our guests with love and kindness. If you’re interested in helping our staff by being a part of the hands-on work it takes to operate a shelter and give guests a good experience, contact volunteers interfaithsanctuary.org.
WOTS
DEEDS ON THE STREET
Honoring Leo with Love and Muffins
By Jodi Peterson-Stigers
On Saturday, February 15th, Interfaith Sanctuary lost a beloved member of our community. His name was Leo, and to so many, he was more than a friend—he was a kind soul, a steady presence, and a cherished part of our family.
dear friend. So, we reached out through email and Facebook, asking our community to bake muffins in Leo’s memory to share at the service.
then that we all discovered that Bob was a classically trained tenor from Boise State University, with over 126 performances at The Knock ‘Em Dead Dinner Theatre.
DEEDS ON THE STREET WOTS
To honor Leo’s life, we held a memorial service on Sunday, February 23rd—a day that also happened to be National Muffin Day.
What is National Muffin Day?
National Muffin Day was created 11 years ago by Jacob Kaufman and Julia Levy in San Francisco, CA, as a way to raise awareness about food insecurity. They began a tradition of baking and distributing muffins to those in need—offering nourishment and kindness, one muffin at a time.
A Tribute to Leo, Wrapped in Love and Muffins
We wanted to combine the spirit of National Muffin Day with Leo’s memorial, providing a moment of comfort and nourishment for our unhoused community as they gathered to say goodbye to their
Keyclub Kindness
And what happened next was nothing short of incredible.
We received hundreds and hundreds of muffins. They came from local stores, churches, and even from Leo’s own family members, who joined us in remembering him. The outpouring of love—expressed through something as simple as a muffin— was extraordinary. It was a powerful reminder of just how much Leo was loved.
A Life That Touched So Many
The memorial began with a breathtaking tribute from Bob Lemmon, a guest at Interfaith and a dear friend of Leo’s. Bob asked to open the service with a solo performance of Open Arms by Journey— sung a cappella. Before he took the stage, our executive director, Jodi PetersonStigers, sought to learn more about Bob so she could introduce him properly. It was
On Saturday, March 1, Key Club members from three local high schools came together at Timberline High to assemble hygiene goodie bags for the guests at Interfaith Sanctuary. Over the past month, these dedicated students have been collecting an incredible amount of donations from their families, friends, and community— allowing them to stuff 151 hygiene bags and deliver an additional 20 boxes filled with much-needed hygiene supplies for our shelter.
Their generosity and hard work will make a huge impact on the lives of those we serve. A heartfelt thank you to these amazing young leaders for their kindness, compassion, and commitment to helping our unhoused neighbors!
With that introduction, Bob stood up from his walker, threw back his head, and sang the most powerful, heartfelt version of Open Arms that anyone in the room had ever heard. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house.
Then, one by one, Leo’s friends stepped up to the mic to share their memories. He was a father, a grandfather, an uncle, a brother, and chosen family to so many. Fellow veterans, biker friends, his sister-in-law, a young homeless mother, and a brother who shared his love of rings and music all came forward, each with their own story about the man they loved. The stories went on and on, painting a picture of a life that touched so many.
A Love Story Left Untold
Among those who spoke was Gypsy Wind, a dear friend of Leo’s. He shared a deeply moving story about Leo and his best girl, Deb.
Leo’s love for Deb was enormous—so much so that he bought her an engagement ring, intending to ask for her hand in marriage. But before he could, he was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Not wanting Deb to marry a dying man, he never gave her the ring. Instead, he kept it in his pocket until the day he passed.
After Gypsy shared this story, he played a video from Deb, in which she spoke about her love for Leo and sent a personal message of love to his family. It was a moment of tenderness and heartbreak, a testament to the depth of Leo’s love.
A Family Forever Changed
Leo’s family sat together on our well-worn
brown sofa, listening intently as story after story unfolded. When the service ended, they shared with us that this memorial had changed their lives—and their perception of Leo. They had no idea the enormous impact he had on our unhoused community. It shifted their understanding of his life, and for that, they were forever grateful.
They left knowing that Leo did not die alone. His life was filled with friendships, stories, community, and joy.
Feeling the Love From Boise First
A huge “thank you” to Boise First Congregational United Church of Christ for sending love and encouragement our way! After the Supreme Court ruling, their
Dad Gave Me a Guitar
By Critter
When I was 23 years old I was a hell-raiser. Maybe it even started when I was born, to this day I’m not sure when or why I was the way I was. Specifically at the age of 23 though things had reached a fevered pitch in terms of my behavior. I found myself in serious trouble with the law and at the major disappointment of my family. My relationship with my Dad was quite
tumultuous due to my actions and some of his. Not to say that I didn’t love him and he isn’t special to me because he was. Resting in peace now though. Forever missed and loved. Truly.
At this particular point in time in my early twenties, I once again was in real trouble with the law. I came home weeks later in the aftermath of this situation and was greeted by my dad bearing an unexpected gift; a brand new MARTIN- Dx-1 acoustic/
electric guitar. The look on his face was what I thought at the time to be true love and concern, and I still think that but the point is, why. Why did he do this for me? Maybe I had broken him and he was sad, maybe he thought this was the only way to cure my madness or maybe it was a combination of the two. I’m not sure but I know it was a great thing he did. I hope this short story, although a touch ambiguous and quick, brings love.
congregation took time to write heartfelt notes to our staff and guests, reminding us that we’re not alone in this work.
Ed Keener even stopped by our Word on the Street editorial meeting to hand-deliver these beautiful posters! Your kindness lifts us up and gives us the strength to keep pushing forward—together.
