First, I want to thank everyone that had kind words to say about last month’s column. I hope you enjoy this month’s as well.

As you can imagine, there are very few positive experiences that come from being homeless. But one of the best things that has happened to us as a family is our involvement in the National Coalition for the Homeless’ “Faces of Homelessness” Speakers’ Bureau. My husband David and I enjoy it, and it has been especially good for our son Matthew's self-esteem.

The purpose of the Speakers’ Bureau is to break stereotypes and put a human face on homelessness. As members of the Speakers’ Bureau we visit many different groups and tell them our story. After we speak, there is a time for questions and answers, and I thought it would be interesting to write about some of the best and most frequently asked questions.

One of the best questions yet was, "If you were suddenly in a position of power, what would you do to help the homeless?" My answer: I would build a facility that would provide shelter, case management, mental health services, medical and dental care, legal aid, life skills and parenting classes, child and adult mentoring, substance abuse counseling, and all phases of employment preparedness including job placement services.

A question I'm always glad to hear is, "What can I do to help?" I respond with give of yourself – get to know a homeless person that you see regularly, arrange to bring them a home cooked meal, some warm socks, or that old blanket you never use any more. Organize a group of friends to cook dinner for a homeless shelter. Mentor a homeless child a few hours a week. Spend an hour writing letters to elected officials and make your views known.

A question that was asked just the other day is, "Are you angry with all the agencies that failed your family?" I believe that anger is something that you choose or refuse. Anger is only useful as a motivation to change that which is unjust. I am distressed that we are not as caring and concerned about each other as we should be.

The Speakers’ Bureau is doing good work and we are proud to be a part of it. If you want to learn more about the National Coalition for the Homeless you can go to www.nationalhomeless.org or call 202-462-4822 and ask for Mike O’Neill, the Speakers’ Bureau coordinator.