Perspective stirs generosity, and recipients give it forward

Perspective stirs generosity. Rhonda Thompson just donated to the food bank at the Phillis Wheatley Center.

Her generous donation sets an example in several ways.

You don’t have to be rich to care about your neighbors. Indeed, most donors are average citizens. Giving is not about the pocketbook, but about the good condition of the heart.

Some just put themselves mentally in the other guy’s position and give freely.

Others have been in the other guy’s shoes; thus, they can be doubly motivated to give.

For example, Rhonda, in a financial pinch, fled to Atlanta, three children in tow, to the so-called Mecca of middle-income blacks. After all, she has skills as a singer, songwriter, and musician.

So, she strove to fulfill her dream of making it big in the entertainment world in Atlanta.

Sure, she did some recordings and landed various gigs, including church performances.

Rhonda did not expect to be helped by various charities with a place to stay, food, and training.

Meanwhile, Rhonda also graduated from Purdue Global University with a degree in Communication and snagged a job as a receptionist.

Now with years of experience in IT, aviation, and healthcare, her job options have increased.

While in Atlanta, Rhonda produced an album with the Contemporary Christian project in 2002 and collaborated with a production team in Washington, DC, in 2017 on a smooth jazz project called Upfront. 

She also played the piano and directed various local church choirs.

With her enhanced skill set,  Rhonda returned to Greenville. An interview with Ray Lattimore at Market Place Professional Staffing landed her a job as a receptionist at the Phillis Wheatley Center.

In a better position financially, Rhonda sees the need in the community and is moved to make her generous donation to the food bank.

Sure, Rhonda continues to hone her skills as a singer, songwriter, and musician. She knows that her musical talents have a high ceiling. And she’s in a sweet spot until her bigger opportunities knock.

Meantime, she is experiencing more fully the joy of giving in many ways of working for a nonprofit center and giving back to the community that means so much to her.