n a world where homelessness and extreme poverty cast long shadows over countless lives, organizations like Arkansas’ Our House stand out as beacons of hope, striving to create lasting, positive change for those in need.
Executive Director Ben Goodwin paints a vivid picture of their ambitious vision — one where individuals can leave behind the specter of instability and focus on goals, hopes, and dreams for themselves and their children.
“We want them to be able to put homelessness and instability in their rear-view mirror, and then keep their eyes on the prize,” said Goodwin.
His insights shed light on the multifaceted nature of homelessness, revealing that it is not just about lacking a physical shelter, but also encompasses the absence of a job, transportation, childcare, and more. This holistic understanding serves as the foundation for Our House’s approach, where every aspect of a person’s well-being is carefully considered and nurtured.
“You need a lot to get out of homelessness, to go from that place of great instability, to a greater place of stability,” said Goodwin. “And to get there, you’ve got to have so much confidence, resilience, determination, coping skills, relationship skills, and self-awareness. And that is a tremendous accomplishment that exceeds what probably most of us will ever achieve in our lives.”
Goodwin explains that at the core of Our House’s mission lies a deep commitment to serving the community — from providing shelter for 80 to 90 residents each night to offering programs that cater to every member of the family.
The focus on children is particularly poignant, with early childhood education initiatives and a robust children’s program that engages with 300 young people daily. By investing in the youngest members of society, Our House is doing its part to ensure that the cycle of poverty is disrupted at its roots.
Recognizing the profound impact of mental well-being on one’s journey out of homelessness, Our House’s dedication extends beyond physical needs and includes a comprehensive mental health program that empowers individuals with the resilience, determination, and coping skills needed to navigate life’s challenges.
“We want to be the partner to people who are going through a hard journey, achieving great things, that are going to help themselves and their families, and turbocharge that with our mental health services,” he said.
In a world where barriers to healthcare can be insurmountable, Our House stands out for its “low to no barrier” approach, ensuring that residents receive the support they need without unnecessary obstacles.
Through strategic partnerships with healthcare providers and organizations, Our House has created a seamless network of care that meets people where they are and guides them towards a path of transformation and empowerment.
“The journey towards a brighter future is not without its challenges. But it’s our belief in the transformative power of our approach that drives us forward, propels us to find innovative solutions and cultivates a community of support around our mission.”