My SART Paper in place of parade paper

Randi Kearn

Social Movements

M/W

3-16-16

My Experience with the group S.A.R.T. (Social Action Response Team)

I have been a member of the SART team for approximately 6 years. I was asked to come on board for my experience working with the mentally ill population, knowledge of medication profiles, and assessing our resource to meet the needs of those in need. This team was designed by North Fresno Church to help meet the needs of the community. We provide, clothing, food, pay bills, help with transportation to appt's, help people find housing, help people acclimate and give resources to those leaving the prison system, provide personal counseling, mentoring, and many other resources. SART also networks with other groups and organizations to link resources and meet the most needs.

I have been involved in several capacities; Assessing those with mental illness, taking them to appointments, helping to furnish peoples homes, feeding people at banquets and luncheons. Giving food and clothing to the needy.

SART advocates for the marginalized and disenfranchised, brings hope and healing to individuals and families in many ways. In a different program I am involved with I have learned that inconvenient service is good service.

Our team members meet every couple of months to assess and review issues and needs and how we are achieving success in building relationships and resources for each case. We also fund raise twice a year to help cover the costs of supplies and outflow to the community. I am so proud to be a part of this team and humbly watch how lives are affected and improved by our efforts. It's awesome to be a part of it.

Many have helped me when I was down and out now I get to give back.