1993-1994 Harry Singer Foundation National Essay Contest
White Hats: People Who Are Trying To Make A Difference
Teacher: Constance Goodwin
Lubbock-Cooper High School, Lubbock, Texas
1st Amber Cratzki 
2nd Pervis Evans 3rd Dnate Baxter
"My
father is an alcoholic. About eight years ago, he quit a good-paying job to
invest in his own business. The business was unsuccessful, and he felt he was
too; thus, he started drinking to drown his failures. The alcohol affected his
own lifestyle, and he couldn't hold a job. We tried numerous rehabilitation
centers, all ending in failure. Everyone tried to help him until the decision
came that he must start helping himself, so my parents divorced. Since then, he
still hasn't taken responsibility for himself and looks toward booze for the
answer. He is homeless as far as I know. The irresponsibility of alcohol use has
put him there."
Amber Gatzki, Lubbock-Cooper High School, Lubbock, Texas
"My
solution for the homeless not only involves those wandering the streets, but
also those found locked up in cells. I feel that the prisoners, if cooperative,
should help build homeless shelters wherever needed, and in return, they could
get an early parole. The homeless could then live in these shelters, but not for
free. Specialized workers would help these homeless persons to find various jobs
around the area to work at. For those not finding an outside job, they can work
at the shelter cooking meals, sewing clothes, cleaning, baby-sitting, or caring
for the ill, in return for a fee. The money that these homeless people earn,
though, will not be pocketed for the purchase of drugs, alcohol, or other uses.
Instead, the money will start an account under that person's name to be used for
the future. When enough money is in the fund, a specialized worker will help
them to find a reasonable place to live. These individuals will now have a home,
a job, and a feeling of accomplishment and worth. This system will benefit the
prisoners, too. It will work like therapy, teaching responsibility, carpenter
skills and achievement and self-worth.
Amber Gatzki, Lubbock-Cooper High School, Lubbock, Texas