“Sometimes It’s Just a Smile”: Faith Danzey Reflects on The Power of Presence at NLCA
Faith Danzey is the Director of Programs at New Life Community Alliance (NLCA). Of the many people she’s met through her work, one interaction has stayed with her for years.
Early in her time at NLCA, Faith met a gentleman who had come in for support. “I felt drawn to help him,” she shares. A self-described “touchy-feely person,” Faith wanted to offer some warmth and encouragement, so she went in for a hug from behind.
He flinched.
Faith immediately pulled back and apologized. When she asked him what was wrong, he responded with something she hasn’t forgotten:
“I haven’t been touched in months.”
The moment was simple, but it changed the way Faith thought about what it means to care for someone. “That was something that really stuck with me,” she says. “People take for granted just someone’s touch.”
For Faith, moments like this are also a reminder to practice gratitude in her own life.
“Sometimes, I might want to murmur and complain,” she shares. “But then I really think about it, and I come to work every day, and I’m like, people are really suffering and going through things, and I get to help them.”
Care Can Look Different
Faith’s experience is also a reminder that care can look different for every person. A gesture meant to offer comfort may not always be received that way. And that’s okay. Rather than taking his reaction personally, Faith paused, gave him space, and asked what was wrong.
Sometimes, showing someone we care means being willing to listen and learn how they want to be supported. We may not always know what someone has experienced or what they need in that moment. But we can listen, pay attention, and meet them where they are.
After years of serving neighbors at NLCA, Faith has learned that making a difference doesn’t always require a big moment or a dramatic outcome.
“I’m glad when we find housing; I’m glad when someone gets a job,” she says. “But sometimes it’s just a smile.”
Sometimes the most meaningful thing we can offer another person is something every one of us can give: our presence. At NLCA, that means meeting our neighbors with compassion, treating each person with respect, and reminding them through our words and actions that they are seen and valued.
Want to be part of that work? Learn more about volunteering with New Life Community Alliance and discover how simply showing up can make a difference.
