[Blindtlk] rides from church members

[Lauren Merryfield]

Hi,
I know my church has a volunteer committee. I emailed, suggesting that we have a transportation committee, but I might be about the only person needing a ride. 

I did have them put a notice in the bulletin and on the bulletin board, but we didn't get any responses. I don't think some of them see me as valuable, but as someone who is broken and not healed; that kind of thing. It is a more liberal church, so it seems like they could be more disability-oriented. I think they are working on improving things, with our new minister. She always stops to say hi to me, which is really nice. But when Marilynn isn't available, I really don't have other options except to take a cab.
Thanks
Lauren

-----Original Message-----
From: blindtlk [mailto:blindtlk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Ericka Short
Sent: Monday, December 09, 2013 5:09 PM
To: Blind Talk Mailing List
Subject: Re: [Blindtlk] rides from church members

Depending on how large your congregation is, you might want to start by sitting down one on one with the pastor and explaining your needs.  He/she can either direct you to some names to contact personally.  They might know 
of hidden services in you area also.   If you know people from adult 
classes, ladies aid or parents who have kids in Sunday School with your kids you can find a common connection.  Bigger churches have either a parish nurse, Family  concerns or social concerns committee/team .  These can be a good resource too.  At first you will have to schedule rides but later people realize you really need help and don't take advantage of them, you should have a few that will be reliable in a sticky situation.  I put a note in the bulletin and church newsletter.  That helped.  The more involved you are in the congregation the more they are willing to help you.  People like to help those they care about.  People don't help strangers so often any more probably for the same reason background checks for drivers is a good idea.  Some days I think some congregational leaders wish I'd leave the church because I’m pushing them to  be more disability accessible in facilities and in attitude.  That won't happen!  Good luck.  I hope I was helpful.

Ericka J. Short
262-697-0510

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me". Philippians 4:13

"No hand is too small or too big to do good in this world." EJ. Short 


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