We've all been there. The tattered veteran at the end of a highway ramp. The blanket-covered figure under a downtown overpass. The basket-pushing man outside the arts center.

What to do. Glance away? Shuffle through your purse for change? Feel guilty and helpless?

I know all of that falls short of a true solution to homelessness. And that's what led me to volunteer regularly at Louisville's St. John Center for Homeless Men.

While I serve on the board and last year chaired the center's biggest fundraiser, my in-person connection to the clients — men I've come to know and appreciate when I see them on the bus or around the neighborhood — is what touches me most.

Help me help them.

With our traditional fundraiser, Raisin' the Rent, forced to adapt because of pandemic restrictions, St. John Center supporters are hosting virtual house parties and asking friends to participate.

Please join me in donating to this worthy cause that's led me to better understand the complexity of homelessness and the proven methods — through your donations and the center's hard work — to reduce it.

The St. John Center is breaking down barriers, meeting homeless men where they are to help them find jobs, find affordable housing and receive the necessary support to succeed.

Help us help them.