#TheFrontStepsProject

I was so excited to visit yet another family that I have known for a long time from Beth Ami, Hayley, Brian, Chloe, Layla, Eli & Ozzie! They were all filled with smiles when I pulled up at their house, actually enjoying time on their front porch! I love dogs too so meeting Ozzie was a special treat!!!

I asked Hayley to share some personal thoughts about this time and she said:

This pandemic has certainly stopped the world in its tracks! While the fear factor and casualties of the situation are horrifying, we are overwhelmed by gratitude that we are among the lucky ones who are not facing extenuating circumstances that make this time even more difficult.  With lots of spring sports and active, social teens, this time of year is typically particularly busy. While we miss friends, team practices, games and our usual routine, there is a gift in having a slower pace. Brian and I have enjoyed having everyone in one place much more than we are usually able to this time of year.  It’s made for special family and sibling time that would have been impossible with the demands of a normal Spring! So we’re counting our blessings, praying for those who are suffering right now, trying to contribute in positive ways, and taking time to appreciate the new perspective that comes from this global pause in life as we knew it.

Beyond what’s going on in our home, of course we’re all in awe of the amazing heroes who have been working tirelessly in this crisis. In addition to all the frontline workers in our community, on a personal note, I do grants development for nonprofit organizations including several that are part of the safety net for some of New York City’s most vulnerable residents. I love what I do and inspired by my clients every day, but especially right now. I have been amazed by how quickly and seamlessly they have adapted and escalated services to make sure people – especially at-risk individuals and families -- in their communities remain fed, housed, healthy (emotionally and physically), safe, and connected to resources.   Shout out to Queens Community House and Neighborhood Coalition for Shelter whose services are vital right now and to all of the incredible nonprofits who are going above and beyond while facing their own challenges organizationally through this crisis!

Hayley, that was beautiful! Thank you for these words, thank you for participating in #TheFrontStepsProject, and thank you for taking the lead on turning this project into a book!

Erica