Key Member Spotlight: Brittney George
Meet one of our newest Key Members, Brittney George! As a long-time friend to Miriam’s House we have so valued her volunteer efforts, advocacy, and support of our work over the years. We were thrilled to have Brittney join The Key, our unstoppable community of monthly givers who are committed to ensuring that everyone in our community has a safe place to call home. We reached out to Brittney to learn more about her and her generous commitment to support our work to end homelessness through her ongoing gifts.
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
I'm a South Carolina native, but Lynchburg's been my home since 2006. I arrived as a bright-eyed college student, and now I'm a happily married momma of 3 and a licensed therapist. I currently work both in public health and private practice; specializing in pediatric and perinatal mental health. I also just completed my first year of a PhD in Integrative Social Work degree through Saybrook University.
There are so many great nonprofits in the community. Tell us what made you choose to support Miriam’s House?
It's a wonderful problem to have so many organizations busy supporting different demographics in need. My perspective on advocacy and activism is about securing basic rights for all people. This should not be simply based on an individualized work ethic or one's circumstances. Housing is a basic right and it is the community's obligation to take care of its citizens. This is not flashy work; the bottom line is not a sweet photo op. I appreciate Miriam's House for centering on the people being served and not themselves.
Why do you choose to give monthly?
I am just one person, and the need is great. Activists show up in various ways, and they are all needed. Overall, I desire to be a good local citizen, which means I contribute not just in words but in deed. It's my hope that my monthly financial contribution is a way to give to the community where I live and work every day.
Anything else you would like to share with the broader community to inspire them to join The Key?
There are so many opportunities to support the community around you, most often it can be hard to figure out where to start. And even when you've identified the causes you care for, it can be overwhelming to get connected. I am deeply connected in the nonprofit world, and many dissipate from lack of financial support. The passion is there, but unless the surrounding community—from companies to ordinary citizens—joins them in the work, the work is bound by a start/stop cycle. And ultimately, this hurts those in need. Consider joining The Key to keep the work going! Anyone can make a difference.
When not helping to end homelessness in Lynchburg, I can be found…
On adventures with my family or relaxing in my favorite spot at home binge-watching Black 90s throwback shows.
Members of The Key, like Brittney, have committed to financially supporting Miriam’s House through a donation amount of their choosing. This support ensures that hundreds of homeless families and individuals are given not only the physical key of a home but keys to independence, opportunity, and safety. Brittney, along with this transformative group of givers, is empowering individuals and unlocking homes and hopes for our most vulnerable neighbors, and we are so grateful.