Written by Aleeya Middleton, ICCS Intern
Empathy is the foundation of the purpose of work at ICCS, as each staff member prioritizes the healing journey of clients, doing their best to maintain a direct connection that centers on recognizing humanity. Aaron is a Chef working at various ICCS programs, including Newcastle and Samaritan Place. Aaron epitomizes a model example of the charisma found in ICCS staff, sharing his story and the tribulations that led him to ICCS.
Aaron began his journey with ICCS four years ago, but it was the preceding years that paved the way for him to enter this field of work. During his youth, Aaron battled addiction and consequently experienced periods of homelessness. Eventually, he would begin his recovery journey with a faith-based organization, finding solace and motivation in his belief in a greater good. “[Jesus,] That’s the only thing that saved me,” he affirmed. As a working professional he has found ICCS to best align with his morals, as he is able to give back to those who helped him reach stability within his recovery.
Having worked in the hospitality industry since he was 15 years old, Aaron has developed an innate connection to serving others through his work, now driven by a greater purpose: ensuring that those on their path to recovery receive care and empathy. Central in Aaron’s story is the recognition that crises are often beyond one’s control and can be influenced through a plethora of factors. He reflects “it’s a good reminder that, you know, it could happen that, you know, that could be me.” This compassionate mindset at ICCS motivates numerous staff members, knowing that even a seemingly minor contribution can serve as the catalyst for residents to persevere in their journey toward recovery.
Many of Aaron’s days are spent serving residents through the kitchen at Samaritan Place, providing a smile to everyone he works with and acting as an essential role in individual’s day-to-day life. Reflecting on his work, he explains, “There’s an acronym called the HALT – hungry, angry, lonely, tired.  So if you’re getting food, it makes you have more of a chance to make a better decision, right?” For many individuals experiencing homelessness, lack of access to food becomes a significant barrier to transitioning off the streets, diminishing their motivation to seek better circumstances and move forward. Thus, individuals like Aaron play an essential role in guiding residents toward their potential successes.
Following the fire that took place at Samaritan Place – June 16, 2024 – Aaron reflects on the collaborative efforts of staff members as a standout highlight from his time working with ICCS. Despite the imperfect circumstances of this event, the staff at ICCS went above and beyond to assist the residents within the building, “To see everybody in the organization helping out… it’s just really nice to see that.”
Sharing stories, whether from staff, volunteers, or residents, provides a new perspective on the inner workings of an organization such as ICCS, where the primary focus is on enhancing people’s lives and working daily towards their betterment. Aaron’s story serves as a prominent reminder of how one person’s determination to help another can benefit an entire community of those in need, grounded in empathy and compassion for those who have are moving towards their goals.