The Company of Others: Stories of Belonging - Softcover

Shields, Sandra

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1551521865 ISBN 13: 9781551521862

Publisher: Arsenal Pulp Press, 2006

Synopsis

In the next decade, six million North American families will be caring for someone with a disability. But other disabled people are not so lucky, left to live in isolation and without support in an era of federal and state cutbacks. This extraordinary book is about the transforming power of family and community on "vulnerable" individuals--the mentally challenged, the mentally ill, the elderly--and how these efforts enrich us as a society. The book tells the stories, interwoven with photographs, of five such people, who are surrounded by social "circles--friends and family whose respect, encouragement, and unconditional love give them a sense of purpose and belonging. Featuring beautiful duotone photographs, the stories told here are profoundly inspiring, giving hope to anyone who, because of age, health, or disability, has been excluded from having a full and meaningful life.

Co-produced with PLAN (Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network).

About this title

Product Description:

The transforming power of family and community, in words and pictures.

Review:

When we hear the term 'networking', images spring to mind of handshakes, the exchange of business cards, and hopefully some sort of intangible benefits?a job lead, a meeting with an important person, or even a discount on a big-ticket item. We're often focused on what we might get from the network, rather than what we bring to it. "The Company of Others" turns that notion on its head, reminding readers that what we bring to the table is far more important than what we leave with. This book introduces us, in pictures and words, to five individuals whose networks bring depth and meaning to their lives. They are the 'vulnerable' of society?the elderly, people battling mental illness, and those living with intellectual disabilities. We are offered a glimpse into their private lives are see that, through the circle of support around them, these individuals are experiencing the world in ways that some said wasn't even possible. As heartening as it is to hear about their perseverance and everyday successes, the true magic is in how the network of people offering support to these vulnerable individuals are themselves transformed, not by what they get from the experience, but what they give to it.This concept isn't new to those who work in the nonprofit sector. However, these simple stories of belonging remind us that even the smallest gestures of kindness can have a major impact. If you are feeling isolated, stressed about life, or are just sitting at your desk wondering if you have anything left to give, pick up this book and witness the transformative power of belonging and giving. Although it is a quick read, the images and stories will linger long after the last page is turned, and you'll be left thinking about your own networks, and what you have to offer."?Charity Village"--Charity Village

About this edition

• Publisher: Arsenal Pulp Press
• Publication date: 2006
• ISBN 10: 1551521865
• ISBN 13: 9781551521862
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 183