As our use of technology such as smart phones and computers continues to increase, it may seem that technology is running our lives. As a result, face-to-face interaction seems to decrease — but that doesn’t mean it is any less important to some.
Here are some statistics.
Recently, Catholic Charities and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office partnered in hosting the fifth annual Consumer Resource Fair at the Richland Mall.The fair featured various community entities and non-profits, all provided with a table to display their information to passersby. Some stopped to ask questions – some kept walking.
Those who chose to stop were treated with a friendly face and an eager attitude. The information in packets, posters and fliers was not in shortage, which was reminiscent of an online search engine. The difference? A personal touch. And sometimes that could help save a life.
Social Service Worker for Richland County Job & Family Services Karen Kepple said talking with her clients is crucial. “Faces can display so much of what’s going on in someone’s life. I have to see what’s going on in their face or else that might mean someone doesn’t get the help they need,” said Kepple.
“So many don’t have that interaction with people and they become very lonely to the point they gravitate to anyone who gives them attention. And that’s when unfortunately abuse happens,” she addd.
Kepple works with adults aged 60 years and over who are or have been physically, emotionally or sexually abused, neglected, or exploited financially.
“Some haven’t seen anyone in ages. If I can help even just one elder today that needs help, I’ll be happy,” she added.
Mansfield/Richland County Public Library Outreach Department Manager Deborah Dubois said her reason for being at the Consumer Resource Fair was to connect with someone. Dubois was manning the library’s and First Call 211’s table.
“When you come to this, you don’t have to wade through all the junk on Google. That’s what these people are here for, to be helpful,” said Dubois.
Community Organizer for North End Community Improvement Collaborative Kizzy Williams said face-to-face interaction actually returns more information for the seeker.
“You get much more information. You feel and see what’s going on in that person. It also gives us vendors and entities to network and collaborate. It’s a win-win for everyone really,” said Williams.
Chairperson Clarence Baughman of Blue Rose Mission felt a moral obligation to talk to the passersby during the event. “It’s what Christ would want us to do,” said Baughman.
For more information on how one of these organizations can help you or an individual you know, click on the organization’s name with a blue link in this story, or stop by their offices.
