Giving Dignity

IDignity volunteers are ready to get to work to help those seeking assistance at the monthly events.

     In the advancement of humankind, there is little better than providing a person with the means to help themselves.  In Orlando, that opportunity comes from IDignity.

    The organization schedules a day once a month to provide a one-stop-shop to help people in need get a replacement ID card.  ID cards are necessary to get into a shelter, apply for economic assistant, and find employment.  People living on the streets often don't have this important piece of their identity either because they lost it or it was stolen from them.  In addition, anyone released from jail is unlikely to be released with identification preventing them from finding shelter or assistance as they attempt to re-integrate into the community.

     At IDignity, there are people on hand to help you get an ID card, which is a quick and easy process if you are already in the Florida DMV system.  However, many people need to obtain birth certificates from out of state or a social security card.  There are legal counselors on hand to handle these requests as well.  The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is also on site to provide services. 

     The ministry is a result of a concerted effort on behalf of several local churches who worked with Florida Division of Drivers Licenses, Social Security Administration, and Orange County Health Department to make this happen.  The churches include First United Methodist Church, First Presbyterian Church, the Cathedral of St. Luke, St. James Catholic Cathedral, and Trinity Lutheran Church.

    A major force behind this effort has been Michael Dippy with First United Methodist Church Orlando.  In fact, he's the brain behind the catchy name, IDignity.  His compassion and drive to help the homeless in Orlando has spurred many smaller local efforts as well.  He is also the organizer for First United Methodist's ministry with the Interfaith Hospitality Network (more information on that another time).  He is another local hero who deserves recognition for his work.  He is also the person in charge of October's IDignity, scheduled for Thursday, October 23rd.

     Volunteers are needed from 7:00 am until 3:30 pm.  Intake for people needing assistance runs from 8:00 am until 2:00 pm.  The event is held at the Orlando Union Rescue Mission at 410 W. Central Boulevard.

For more information, e-mail idignity3@gmail.com or call 406-792-1374.