The Story of
Ira
Our story begins with a bottle of water. I was on my way to work when a homeless woman, known as Ira, stopped me to ask for a bottle of water. While I did not have one that day, this led to a daily routine: a regular delivery of water, then water and chips, and eventually water, chips, and a breakfast sandwich each morning to the corner where Ira would sit. This routine led to the creation of our flagship event where we come together to serve food to the homeless community.
In one of the richest countries in the world, there are more than half a million individuals who suffer from homelessness. We have all known, interacted with, or ignored someone in a situation like Ira's. Perhaps it made you angry. Maybe it made you sad. Maybe it made you feel indifferent or uncomfortable because you didn't know what to do. Maybe it made you feel helpless. Personally, it made me feel heartbroken. But it also made me feel hope.
At Pass By Ira we believe that we have the power to change someone's circumstances and make a difference. One kind act, one bottle of water, and one relationship at a time. A seemingly small, routine act of kindness led to the creation of this organization- no easy feat, and it all started when I had to pass by Ira.
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- Jene'a, Founder of Pass by Ira
Mission
Our mission is to eradicate homelessness by increasing access to basic human rights,
such as safe shelter, healthy food, clean water, quality education and healthcare, and a livable income.
Vision
We envision is a world where all individuals have access to the basic human rights necessary for a healthy and fulfilling life, including nutritious food, clean water, safe shelter, quality education and healthcare, and a livable income. We envision a society where poverty, inequality, and discrimination are challenged at every level, and every person is treated with respect, integrity, and compassion.
Values
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Compassion: We believe that every person deserves to be treated with kindness, empathy, and understanding, regardless of their circumstances.
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Dignity: We believe that every person has inherent worth and should be treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their background or life experiences.
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Equity: We believe that every person should have equitable access to basic human rights, including nutritious food, clean water, safe shelter, quality education and healthcare, and a livable income.
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Collaboration: We believe that lasting change can only be achieved through working together with our partners, stakeholders, and the communities we serve.
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Integrity: We believe in conducting ourselves with the highest levels of honesty, transparency, and accountability in all of our actions and decisions.
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Innovation: We believe in embracing new ideas, technologies, and approaches to create solutions that are effective, efficient, and sustainable.
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Empowerment: We believe in empowering individuals and communities to take charge of their own lives and work toward a brighter future.
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Environmental Justice and Sustainability: We believe in the inherent right of every person to live in a healthy and sustainable environment, free from the harmful effects of pollution and climate change.
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We are committed to promoting sustainable practices and policies that protect our planet for future generations, while also ensuring that every individual has equal access to clean air, water, and green spaces.
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We believe that environmental justice is a fundamental human right and that it is our responsibility to work towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
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