By Maurice King
On September 11, 2010, the Community for Creative Non-Violence (CCNV) will hold its 40th Anniversary celebration between the hours 10:00 am and 3:00 pm at the CCNV shelter located at 425 2nd Street NW. CCNV is celebrating 40 years of service to the homeless community and the 20th anniversary of the death of Mitch Snyder. The celebration will feature live music groups, disc jockeys, guest speakers and food from various vendors. Tickets will be required for participants to receive food.
A very elaborate article by Adam Sirgany in a previous edition of Street Sense related the history of CCNV and Mitch Snyder’s life. Under Mitch Snyder’s guidance, CCNV became a major activist organization for the homeless. Today, its role as an advocate for the homeless is an integral part of its mission statement. Being the largest shelter in the city, entirely run by a volunteer staff of former residents of the shelter, CCNV has played a pivotal role for many homeless people in their efforts to return to mainstream life.
My initial acquaintance with CCNV began in April 2003 when I entered through its infirmary. The shelter operates on a 24/7 basis, unlike other shelters that operate only from 7pm until 7am. For a person looking to rebuild his/her life, the need for a 24/7 shelter is tremendous. I could leave my belongings in the shelter as I went out to interview for jobs, which was a major plus; residents of the other shelters have no choice but to take their belongings with them when they are forced to leave each morning, which impedes their chances of finding work. In 2004, I became a staff member, and I have retained my staff status. I work in the CCNV computer lab, a facility of twelve computer workstations that provides valuable services to persons seeking work. We help people with creating résumés and cover letters, doing job searches and filling out job applications. Use of the lab is not restricted to CCNV residents alone; anyone can come in and use the computers.
For four decades, CCNV has rendered services to the homeless population. In the celebration, awards will be given to persons who have contributed to CCNV’s growth and ongoing operations as thanks for their assistance. Don’t miss this event; it is a tribute to an institution that has done much for the homeless.
