How can we help each other in a depression?

BillK

How can we help each other in a depression?

Posted on: 02/06/2009 08:04

The economic newsletter I read yesterday was full of dire predictions of falling production, no consumer confidence and global layoffs. I remembered what it felt like to be suddenly searching for a job.

After I had done all the daily routine of looking through the want ads, sending out more copies of my resume, following up with phone calls, etc. the time would hang heavily on my hands. I happened to be on the board of my old school and the principal offered me the chance to be a substitute teacher for a day. It was a huge boost for my spirit at a time when I needed it most.

It leads me to ask how we can help those in the same position. We can and should set up self-help groups for those seeking work, but we should also think about volunteer opportunities. Not only is volunteering a way to get away from the depression of hearing that steady stream of "No" from possible employers, but it is also a good way to network and make new friends.

Could we get a list of ideas together here that would work in our congregations across the country? What would you do to help laid off employees in your community?

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Comments

birthstone_

Posted on: 02/06/2009 15:11

We have a program at our church that provides time for job hunters to show up dressed for work, share resumes & work on them, discuss what skills are necessary these days, share leads, and even after they find work, they are encouraged to keep in touch and share success stories, more leads, & encouragement.

I don't know if it gets people jobs but it is a nice thing for them.

How about Presbytery based job boards - its a bit of patronage, but I guess it is ok if you're just advertising jobs.

Boots

Posted on: 02/06/2009 16:57

Do you offer babysitting too?

Hours have been cut back somthing feirce at work so I am job hunting again. I apply at all the jobs that I can by fax or e-mail but I do prefer to drop my resumes off in person.

My only problem is that on my days off (when I should be hitting the payment) I have no child care available.

trishcuit

Posted on: 02/06/2009 19:08

I like the idea of bartering. If it is something that is a good or service that doesn't require cash, then a haircut can be traded for a bit of babysitting, roof repairs for car repairs (providing the repair doesn't involve a new tranny or motor ) That sort of thing. Some cash may be necessary for materials or supplies in some cases but bartering of the time and labor can save a whole whack of money.