Honest Day's Work

If we want to see "Change" in this world, we must learn to accept our differences and work together towards a better tomorrow.

I moved to Nashville last September, and this city has NOT ceased to amaze me. There is such an entrepreneurial spirit amongst the people; so powerful it has inspired the homeless to rebuild their foundations.

Every morning on my walks to work, a Santa-like gentleman selling The Contributor always joyfully greeted me at the corner of 4^th and Commerce. He wasn’t the only one. On my way to lunch, there was an energetic, middle-aged man in a bright Hawaiian-style shirt selling the same paper. Their contagious smile and peaceful wave reminded me to be happy no matter what the circumstance. Their positivity in the midst of their circumstances made me curious as to what they were selling.

On my drive home, I saw a man carrying a canvas newspaper bag with “The Contributor” printed clearly on the side. I pulled over to offer him a ride; with a sigh of relief and a face filled with joy, he graciously accepted my offer.

Where are you going?

I live in a halfway house near Nolensville, if you don’t mind.

Certainly, so where are you coming from?

I was walking to the bus stop from working near West End Avenue selling The Contributor. I can’t thank you enough for the ride, my feet hurt from walking and standing all day.

How long do you work selling paper?

I’ve been selling papers for 7 months. Everyday that I am able to work, from as early as 6 am to as late as 9pm.

I’m curious, what is The Contributor?

Simply put, it is a homeless newspaper. It’s more to me; it has really changed my life for the better. I went from sleeping on the streets to making an honest living. We have meetings that teach us how to mange our money, enrich our life, and grow our business. I can’t believe it; I own my own business.

I’m also an entrepreneur, is there any advice you may have for me?

Keep being you. It may not sound like much, but it means a lot that people like you still exist. I don’t know you at all, but I know you’re kind enough to offer a “homeless man” a ride. In the midst of being homeless, we are discriminated against as if we are a lesser person than anyone else. I’m working too.

I was empowered by his story, so I did more research on The Contributor. I found that not only have they received national recognition, but also other cities like Denver and Seattle are doing the same. In Nashville, the vendors receive 15 free copies at first, pay 25 cents for each one after that and sell them for a dollar. Incentives, such as attending vendor meetings, result in more free copies, says Tasha French, the volunteer director, graphic designer and founder of the project almost two years ago. 

Hardworking vendors bring in several hundred dollars a month as sales with tips average about $2 a paper. This is proof that you need no more than a dollar and a dream to achieve Success.

Meet more of the homeless vendors of The Contributor.