Social Enterprise Giving Voice to the Homeless

Beyond the Cardboard is a unique social enterprise providing voice to the homeless and helping them get access to tangible resources to overcome the challenge of homelessness. The enterprise has been founded by Jessica Choi, a young social innovator with a motivation to bring the problems of the homeless people into focus and find practical solutions.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development states that about 3.5 million people are homeless every year, out of which 40 percent are kids and 20 percent are veterans. The homeless population is typically misrepresented by stereotypes and does not have the necessary means for change.

Beyond the Cardboard will empower the homeless by giving them a voice, raising awareness about their reality, and sharing their stories with the world. The enterprise is building a comprehensive website that will include feature articles and video interviews with homeless people and let them share their aspirations and experiences. It will also make an effective use of social media networks to turn Beyond the Cardboard into a wider movement and involve the maximum number of people.

The enterprise will also provide strategic resources to help pull the transiently homeless out of homelessness. It will pay attention to seemingly minor but critical issues that affect the lives of homeless. For instance, it will distribute self-adjustable eyeglasses to those without proper eyesight. Such ailments cause loss of employment opportunities, and these can be corrected at a very small cost.

Beyond the Cardboard is entering into partnerships with related organizations to provide regional access to resources for the homeless. The enterprise envisions a micro loan program for the homeless as a key step in helping them escape the scourge of homelessness. The efforts will engage the guidance and suggestions of homeless shelter volunteers and previously homeless people.

Beyond the Cardboard hopes to educate a new generation of social activists who understand the challenges faced by the homeless population. It aspires to motivate them to take meaningful action to make an impact on the lives of the homeless.

Photo Credit: leroys