People often regard the homeless negatively, sometimes diminishing or avoiding them all together.
Nikky Smith, 17, of Independence Township, and Michael Jones, 17, of Groveland Township, chose to do the opposite. They embraced the homeless while helping them face the challenges of poverty.
On March 11, the Detroit Homeless Veterans Center (DHVC) recognized the efforts of area youth including Smith and Jones by presenting them with the Spirit of Detroit Award.
‘I was very happy I got (the award). It was completely unexpected,? said Jones who along with Smith have worked on many veterans? affairs with American Legion Post 377 in Independence Township.
Smith shared Jones? surprise.
‘I was shocked,? said Smith. ‘I love going down there. It makes me feel good to know I made their day by going down there.?
According to Jones? mother Darlene, the two received the award because they visited the DHVC one or two times a month for approximately five years serving food and provide gifts and cards around the holidays.
‘The criteria is to do something in Detroit to improve the city or the lives of its residents,? said Darlene.
‘I think it’s a very big honor and I’m proud of him? I’m proud of the way he respects the veterans. A lot of kids look down or shy away from the homeless. He thinks everyone has a purpose in life and doesn’t judge people by where their life has led them.?
While both Smith and Jones struggled with their own childhood troubles according to Darlene, they have come around over the years seeing the good in helping others.
‘When I first met Nikky, she didn’t understand why we did the volunteer work. Now her sister is taking an interest,? said Darlene.
‘At first I didn’t want to go down there,? said Smith. ‘It’s changed my life. My life has changed in a good way since I joined the (American) Legion.?
Working in part with American Legion Post 377 in Independence Township, Smith and Jones intend to help provide a full ham dinner around Easter time.
Smith is currently the junior historian and past honorary department junior president for Post 377. Jones, a member of the Sons of the American Legion since the age of three, hopes to attend the Michigan Youth Challenge Academy in Grand Blanc and eventually embark on a career in the military.