Supporting the Homeless: A Call to Action from Rickey Booker
In a heartfelt appeal, Rickey Booker, co-owner of the successful Breakfast Brothers restaurant group, is motivating his peers in the hospitality industry to engage actively in their communities, especially in uplifting those facing homelessness. His advocacy aligns with the mission of UGM Dallas, an organization dedicated to providing essential support to one of society's most vulnerable populations.
At a recent event attended by former President George W. Bush and Laura Bush, the significance of UGM Dallas's initiatives was underscored. Together, they emphasized the importance of continuing support for the organization, which aims to end homelessness—"one person at a time," as their motto suggests. This gathering robustly showcased the multifaceted approach of UGM Dallas, which extends far beyond providing mere shelter and meals.
UGM Dallas offers an array of vital programs, including job skills training, computer classes, financial literacy instruction, and parenting courses, essentially giving individuals the skills they need to become proficient members of society. These initiatives are coupled with job fairs and a licensed daycare service, specifically designed to assist women in completing their training and finding employment upon graduation.
Bruce Butler, the CEO of UGM Dallas, conveyed heartfelt gratitude to the community for their continuous support through donations and volunteer efforts. "Our program is about empowering people to achieve their independence and stability, not merely providing a temporary handout," Butler remarked, reiterating the organization's commitment to facilitating a pathway to self-sufficiency.
Booker shared a personal story that encapsulates the transformative power of providing opportunities. While driving to work one day, he observed a young man experiencing homelessness at a street corner. This moment struck a chord within him, prompting him to take action. He decided to offer this young man, Jahir Romero, a job. With mentorship and guidance from the Breakfast Brothers team, Romero flourished, evolving into a valued employee. Today, Romero has secured stable housing and transportation, and he continues to thrive professionally.
Reflecting on this experience, Booker stated, "Helping others is a value instilled in me from a young age by my mother. I encourage my fellow restaurateurs to step out, visit a local shelter, and engage as community partners. This not only uplifts individuals eager for a chance but also benefits our businesses—it's a win-win scenario."
The programs at UGM Dallas are meticulously designed to equip residents with the tools they need to succeed through a discipleship model, allowing individuals to participate in classes, work, and save money to cultivate a secure future. By forging partnerships with local businesses, UGM Dallas effectively bridges the gap between opportunity and untapped potential, facilitating a pathway from hopelessness to hope.
Those interested in supporting UGM Dallas can visit their website at
www.ugmdallas.org for more information or to make a donation. To discover more about the Breakfast Brothers, visit
www.breakfastbrothers.com.
Through ongoing advocacy and engaged community involvement, individuals like Rickey Booker play a crucial role in challenging homelessness and fostering social accountability. By coming together to support organizations like UGM Dallas, restaurateurs not only uplift those in need but also contribute to a stronger, more resilient community overall.