This is a project involving more than just myself and the amazing people who donated to make the journey happen. With your help, Fifty Sandwiches can be a living, breathing movement that can affect society on a grand scale.
Fifty Sandwiches doesn’t end with the release of the book. This is an ongoing effort to change perspectives for the better by encouraging civilians interviews and spreading the word of Fifty Sandwiches through online platforms and speaking opportunities.
Conducting Your Own Interviews
Whether you are a college student or just a motivated member of the public, we are always in search of Fifty Sandwiches Ambassadors to go out and conduct their own interviews. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, volunteering for Fifty Sandwiches looks great on a resume and Fifty Sandwiches will ALWAYS be happy to be used a reference for your volunteer efforts.
Sharing the stories of America’s homeless is essential in reshaping the way our society views the issue of homelessness. Beyond that, forming personal connections and hearing the stories of struggling strangers is an incredible and mutually beneficial experience.
You Will Need:
- Local shelter’s contact information
- Smartphone or camera
- Recording device or app
Reaching Out
For safety purposes, do not approach strangers on the street. Instead, reach out to local shelters in your area to let them know about the project and your interest in interviewing some of their residents. It’s important to remember to respect the privacy of both the people working in the shelter and the residents. Be sure you have full permission from both the shelter and the interviewee to record the discussion and photograph the subject before proceeding forward with an interview. If they do not wish to be photographed, do not fret! ‘Anonymous’ interviews can be just as heartfelt and eye-opening. in your area to let them know about the project and your interest in interviewing some of their residents. It’s important to remember to respect the privacy of both the people working in the shelter and the residents. Be sure you have full permission from both the shelter and the interviewee to record the discussion and photograph the subject before proceeding forward with an interview. If they do not wish to be photographed, do not fret! ‘Anonymous’ interviews can be just as heartfelt and eye-opening.
Interview Process
Turn on your recording device and get their name, age, and location. These interviews can be a nerve-wracking, emotional process for both parties. After all, your goal is to encourage people in great distress to open up about their outstanding struggles to a complete stranger. Some people are more than happy to share while others may be more reserved. You need to be willing to dive outside of your comfort zone while being careful not to force them to leave theirs. Be mindful of your body language and eye contact. Provide them your undivided attention. They deserve it.
All you need is a recorder, a camera, and a shelter near you! Check out the interviews on the website or our Instagram page to get an idea of what we are looking for. Post the interview on your Instagram page with #FiftySandwiches to encourage more people to do their own interviews! You will be credited for your interview on Facebook, Instagram, and the website! You can also submit your interview on through the contact form here.
To find a shelter near you, check out the National Coalition for the Homeless’ amazing directory!