by Mark A. Sequeira
The week leading up to October 30 this year incited some anxiety in me, as all the weather forecasts were predicting a cold, rainy day. For vendors who sell at farmer’s markets, such a forecast is a glum predictor of the day’s sales. Cold, rainy weather tends to keep people inside. And who could blame them?!? Rainy days are perfect for sleeping in or curling up on the couch and watching Netflix with a steaming cup of hot cocoa (or other libation of your choosing). But the uncooperative weather wasn’t the sole reason for my concern. I had chosen with great anticipation this weekend to donate a portion of Forever Homecoming’s proceeds to True Blue 1881, an organization whose mission is to “create a world where students are free of food, shelter, and economic insecurities.” Diminished foot traffic means diminished sales, which ultimately translates into not much money for an extraordinary cause. I could only hope that all the weather models would ultimately be wrong. My cursory weather check the morning of the market would be disappointing. Great for weather forecasters, but not so much for philanthropy. The only potential silver lining was that the forecast predicted rain wouldn’t begin until around 2 PM, after the market was over.
3:30 AM. That’s the time I wake up on Saturdays to prepare for the Dunwoody Farmer’s Market. After noting the discouraging news about the weather, I began my usual preparatory routine, all the while clinging to some sense of optimism. When I arrived at the market to set up, it was dreary and cold as predicted. I also noticed some of the usual vendors weren’t there. The farmer’s market is a “rain or shine” event, which means vendors are expected to show up, no matter what. So, if some vendors decided not to come, that didn’t bode well for customer turnout. As my daughter and I were setting up our booth, the founder of True Blue 1881, Tiombe Nucklos O’Rourke, arrived. As we greeted each other and exchanged light-hearted banter, I hoped she couldn’t visibly see or sense my apprehension. I suspected we were in for a long, slow day.
As the market began, my suspicions were confirmed by the sparse crowd and overall languid atmosphere. And then it happened. Jamie Bennett and company arrived, and despite the disheartening weather and turnout, their vibes were upbeat and positive. This should not have been a surprise since Jamie has a reputation for transforming situations. Even Tiombe remarked, “Jamie gets your life together.” Well that sentiment must have permeated the atmosphere because afterward, several other people came to the market specifically to support our endeavor that day. On what would generally be considered an anemic day at the farmer’s market yielded about $1,500 in contributions that would go toward sponsoring the annual “Thanks and Giving Dinner” for Atlanta students who are unable to make it home for the holidays. It was humbling and reassuring to see people brave the elements to support a worthy cause. It’s that type of commitment that allows True Blue 1881 to help our young people and ultimately put them in a position to win. Sincerest thanks to everyone who showed up to support…and fellowship (because for HBCU grads a tent anywhere is a magnet for comradery). Also, a special shoutout to those who could not make it to the market, but still contributed directly. I am honored that Forever Homecoming was able to participate in such a noble endeavor, as we are committed to expanding and increasing our philanthropic efforts as we grow.
Spotlight on True Blue 1881
Forever Homecoming has had the privilege of collaborating with True Blue 1881 on two occasions, and those interactions have allowed me to gain some insight into the organization and some of its motivating factors. I thought I’d share those insights here.
Forever Homecoming: How did you learn about food insecurity among students?
Tiombe: When the Spelman students were engaging in a hunger strike because the cafeteria wouldn’t allow them to donate swipes to hungry students.
Forever Homecoming: What inspired you to start True Blue 1881?
Tiombe: As a result [of the hunger strike] I started True Blue, and it grew quickly, so we became a non-profit.
Forever Homecoming: What are some of the initiatives, events, or activities that the organization sponsors/supports?
Tiombe: True Blue Thanks-and-Giving Dinner. Regular scholarships. Save Our Senior initiative, where we pay off [student] balances. A monthly scholarship with GEAT Cosmetics, amongst other things.
Forever Homecoming: What is the ultimate, long-term vision for True Blue 1881?
Tiombe: Ultimately, I would love for our students to not have to worry about the necessities while in school, and I would LOVE to affect change at each of the HBCUs!
If you are interested in joining the fight against food insecurity, True Blue 1881 is looking for warriors like you. They are the vehicle in the fight, and that vehicle requires fuel in the form of time and contributions. Contributions can be made via the following:
Zelle/PayPal: True1881blue@gmail.com
CashApp: $true1881blue
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