Cindy Arnold

“I Love a Parade is a wonderful program.  It helps women who are already having a hard time dealing with life, problems, homelessness and sometimes mental issues and low self-esteem.   Sandra is not only the director but she’s a friend.  She makes going to work an exciting place to be.  You wake up wanting to go and do artwork.  She tells you how good your work is.  Going to art fairs and seeing my artwork sell is the most fulfilling thing in the world.  It helps to have something to look forward to.  It makes me feel I fit somewhere rather than being nothing.”

 

Kellie Vetaw

“I had been homeless and jobless for a long time before coming to I Love a Parade.    Staff members another organization convinced me to come and see what it was about.  I was a little suspicious, but decided this was an opportunity for me to see if I has a hidden talent in art. 

I find working for I Love a Parade therapeutic in my recovery.  I was shocked to see that it’s not a traditional work setting.  I enjoy my co-workers because we all have or had something in common.  Homelessness, mental health concerns and substance abuse.  I am thankful for this opportunity to be here at I Love a Parade.”

LaTonya McIntosh (proud “graduate” of I Love a Parade)

“I was first on the streets when I was only fourteen.  My earliest  memory is one of my parents arguing.  One of my most traumatic memories was when my father shot into the house with 6 bullets, one for my mom and one for each of us kids.   I left the house after that, but I found the same violence on the streets where I became dependent on crack-cocaine.  I turned to prostitution and drug dealing to support myself and my habit. 

When I first came to I Love a Parade, I didn’t have much of a work ethic.  However, as my creativity grew, a new confidence emerged.  I Love a Parade helped me discover this.  I now have a new full-time job, a great place to live and I just celebrated six years of sobriety.  And I am in the final stages of adopting a daughter.”

Lois Erickson (Artist and current board member)

“When I came to I Love a Parade I was impressed by the energetic and personable Program Director, Sandra Haff, as well as the program philosophy and goals.

After having been here for a year, I’ve found it to be a most gratifying experience.  I thoroughly enjoy the atmosphere and my co-workers, having all had somewhat similar but unique life experiences.  Working here is very rewarding.  Team support, friendship, camaraderie, work ethics are all productive aspects of my experience.  I hope I am able to contribute to the program as much as I’ve gained from it.  I continue to receive encouragement and take pride in my participation at I Love a Parade.”