For my spring break in 2014, I chose to travel to Los Angeles, not for the glamor of Hollywood or the sandy beach, but for the desire to serve those experiencing homelessness. What I found in L.A. was much more than just a fulfillment of my desire though. My heart was broken for the people that lined the streets of Skid Row, the man who used the beach showers as his personal shower, the teens who didn't have anywhere to go at night, the man who had a degree but couldn't find a job for the last 20 years.

The Alternative Break Immersion program challenged my faith through the desolations of social injustices that I saw. I often asked myself, “Where is God in the poverty I witnessed in Los Angeles?” I found God in the opportunity to see my faith at work by being with and for others. The community of love and compassion in Los Angeles strengthened my faith and offered great moments of consolation in God. I was wrong to call them homeless. Each person has a story. These are people who just happen to be experiencing homelessness. The greatest thing I heard someone say was, "Homeless is not a noun." These are people  who deserve dignity and respect. In addition to talking with people experiencing homelessness, we visited some social agencies to see how they address the complex issue of homelessness. Some of those agencies included The Weingart Center for the Homeless, Midnight Mission, St. Francis Center and My Friend's Place.

My group also had the opportunity to meet Fr. Greg Boyle, founder of Homeboy Industries. Homeboy Industries serves high-risk, formerly gang-involved men and women with a wide range of services from career development to job opportunities to tattoo removal. Fr. Greg wrote Tattoos on the Heart, a book of his stories while he was pastor of Dolores Mission, a parish in the middle of the most dangerous areas due to gang violence. His ability to show love and compassion, to be with others helped change the town and give hope.