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Speak Up serves as a platform highlighting personal tales of struggle, resilience, and growth amidst adversity. It focuses on themes of homelessness, mental health, addiction, and the transformative power of empathy and community support. The Substack aims to provide a voice to those often marginalized, emphasizing self-determination and hope.

Homelessness Mental Health Addiction Resilience and Personal Growth Empathy and Compassion Community Support and Solidarity Self-Determination Impact of Kindness

The hottest Substack posts of Speak Up

And their main takeaways

Trying to Do Right: Part 1

98 implied HN points • 30 Oct 23

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Homelessness

Being homeless is tough, especially with federal probation.
Maintaining employment while homeless is challenging.
Striving to break the cycle of homelessness often requires self-determination.

Speak Up is Now in Print

19 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24

📚 Literature Magazines

The magazine Speak Up has shifted back to printing physical issues, after being digital-only for a while.
A free copy of the first new printed issue is available to anyone who wants one, with future print issues for paid subscribers.
Joining the More Speak Up in 2024 campaign will support creating a fund for monthly printed publications and higher pay for writers.

I'm Not Bitter

78 implied HN points • 27 Oct 23

🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Addiction Redemption Survivor Forgiveness

The author has faced extreme challenges but remains resilient and positive.
Through faith and forgiveness, the author has found healing and a new purpose.
The author now leads an organization to help women in similar situations.

A Life of Homelessness — Part 2

19 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24

🚌 Education Personal narrative Teaching

The narrator faced challenges in the workforce due to not having a business major.
Living conditions in the SRO occupancy were poor but the community was welcoming.
The narrator's unexpected transition to becoming a shop teacher in a challenging environment.

The Gift

216 implied HN points • 07 Mar 23

🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Personal Growth Recovery

The author reflects on accepting the present and letting go of past struggles.
The writing discusses the challenges of growing up with mental illnesses.
There is a theme of self-discovery and embracing personal growth throughout the text.

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Trying to Do Right: Part 2

39 implied HN points • 02 Nov 23

🎭️ Culture Homelessness Social Issues Illustration

Being homeless is not easy, especially with additional challenges like federal probation.
Living on the streets exposes one to various hardships and dangers.
Despite the difficulties, there are moments of support and solidarity found even within the homeless community.

The Exquisite Beauty of Addiction, A True Story

78 implied HN points • 05 Jun 23

🎭️ Culture Personal Story Human connection Community Engagement

Unexpected acts of kindness can bring immense joy and gratitude.
Small interactions with strangers can lead to meaningful connections and moments of empathy.
Show compassion and understanding towards others, regardless of their circumstances.

Lost and Seen

78 implied HN points • 05 May 23

🎭️ Culture Personal Story Human connection Community support

The power of connecting through shared experiences and grief
Small acts of kindness and empathy can have a significant impact on others
Lessons learned from meaningful interactions can shape how we view humanity

My Homelessness

58 implied HN points • 15 Jun 23

🏥 Health & Wellness Homelessness Survival Community support Recovery Vulnerability

Homelessness can happen to anyone.
Homelessness is demeaning.
Anything helps when you are homeless.

Preventing Homelessness

58 implied HN points • 03 May 23

🏥 Health & Wellness Homelessness Mental health Addiction

Homelessness can be caused by various factors like drug addiction, mental illness, and poverty.
Preventing homelessness should start with teaching children essential life skills and resilience.
Even in tough situations like dealing with addiction or mental illness, it's important to never stop showing love and support.

Reflecting on The Crash

39 implied HN points • 31 May 23

🏥 Health & Wellness Homelessness Recovery Gratitude Self-Improvement Mental health

Reflect on your past mistakes and learn from them.
Gratitude is important, even in difficult times.
Stay focused on overcoming challenges and prioritize self-improvement.

ChatGPT and the Homeless

39 implied HN points • 24 Feb 23

🎨 Art & Illustration Creative Writing Homelessness Artificial Intelligence

Using AI for social causes like bridging economic divides.
Encouraging creativity and writing among homeless individuals.
Promoting inclusivity and providing opportunities for self-expression through workshops.