Today we’d like to introduce you to Debora Marinelli and Morgan Welck.
Hi Debora and Morgan, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
In 2020, Deborah Marinelli began serving the homeless through mobile services throughout Anne Arundel County and Baltimore City. Starting the journey in a pick up truck with totes filled with nonperishable foods, clothing, hygiene items, On the Go Homeless Outreach grew into something larger. Our mission has grown in man power and accessibility in order to serve larger populations throughout Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County. As our mission has grown, we have developed strong relationships with community partners in order to provide in a greater capacity to those in need, ranging from placement into shelter services, as well as rehabilitation for substance abuse. We are continuing to strengthen our personal relationships to those we serve to provide them with all of the resources they need.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Is it ever a smooth road? Our biggest challenge yet has been the financial aspect- finding donors and residents willing to donate to the cause. Our organization is all donation based. Everything we distribute to the homeless population is donated by amazing citizens throughout Maryland. Any hot food/grocery needs are purchased using funds that we raise, as well as any other items that may be typically difficult to come by through donations, such as tents, undergarments, hygiene items, etc. We are constantly working to improve our fundraising relationships with our community partners to gather funds for items that are in high demand.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Deborah works for a sales and marketing company in a retail setting. Her days are spent merchandising at your favorite stores, ranging from Target, Walgreens, CVS, Giant, etc. She always works to go above and beyond her job description, and takes pride in the work she does. Ensuring precise shelving to provide the best shopping experience for customers is a highlight of the work she does.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Deborah’s friend Amy was the catalyst of our mission. Amy spent the time to include Deborah and show her the ropes of outreach. Together they travelled to provide for those in need, which ultimately led to the Deborah’s creation of On the Go.
Networking as a small self-taught non-profit organization can be tricky. It’s hard to make a name for yourself among those who are fighting for legislation and leading teams of volunteers in the double digits. We try to network with other non-profits and local organizations who share the same beliefs. We believe there is strength in numbers, and no such thing as stepping on each others toes. We all share the same mission- to do what we can to help those in need. Why should we fight against each other for power when we work stronger as a unit? We are very grateful for the other organizations and community partners that have joined forces to help us in our mission.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://onthegohomelessoutreach.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OntheGoHomelessOutreach/
