What Politicians Should Do When They Are Termed Out

With political term limits sending many politicians into early retirement, or career changes, many ex-politicians usually get hired as lobbyists or corporate government relations executives to lobby their political peers. In other words, many people termed out of the political system use their existing connections and relationships to make money.

There is, however, a new model for retired politicians. Former State Senator John Burton was termed out of Sacramento in 2004. What did he do?

He started a foundation to help homeless children and youth. For years, he raised millions and millions of dollars for his own political campaigns. Now, he is going back to these political donors in order to raise money to help kids on our streets. (Here is a link to his foundation.)

What a great way to use years of political connections to help others. (Senator Burton also helped raise funds for PATH’s Regional Homeless Center when he was in office.)

How About Building Underground Bunkers For The Homeless?

This is a sort of “out of sight, out of mind” approach to housing people who are homeless.

Well, it’s not as far fetched as it sounds. A man who was homeless in Buffalo, New York has been living in an underground bunker for six years. He spent two years digging a 16-by-20 foot underground home that is 6-1/2 feet deep.

He uses a car battery for electricity, and even studied engineering books in order to build the structure.

Perhaps if neighborhoods won’t allow homeless programs and housing above ground, then maybe the next best thing is underground?

Maybe More Internet Cafes In LA Will Solve Homelessness?

There are an estimated 18,500 people who are homeless in Japan. Most are over 40-years-old. Surprisingly, there is a growing younger population of homeless Japanese who are literally living in the 24 hour internet cafes. Some of these “urban refugees” sleep in the internet cafes at night, then look for day jobs in the morning. Typically, they use the internet and cell phones to line up day jobs.

Although this phenomenon in Japan was not planned out, it is an interesting concept to look at.

Having people who are homeless sleep in high tech centers at night, and use the technology to help them find employment and services in the day time, could be an interesting model.

Honoring Living Veterans Should Be A Part of Memorial Day

As we celebrate Memorial Day, those who have died for our country, let’s also remember those who have fought for our country, and are now homeless in our country.

The statistics for veterans who are now homeless are staggering:

• 23 percent of the homeless population are veterans.

• 33 percent of homeless men are veterans.

• 47 percent served during the Vietnam era.

• 67 percent served for three years or longer.

• 76 percent experience alcohol, drug, or mental health problems.

It is a national disgrace, that while our country spends hundreds of billions of dollars to fight our current war, we are unable to spend enough money to make sure veterans of past wars do not end up on our streets.

(Pic from www.finishing-school.net)