Doing Good Inspires Kindness: A Powerful Mutual Aid Story 

In this heartwarming video, we shine a light on the incredible work being done by a mutual aid group, Mind The Gap St. Louis [mindthegapstl.org], founded by my friend Ed Kallery. Ed’s journey into volunteerism began after being inspired by the work of Invisible People, and today, he and his team of dedicated volunteers are changing lives one person at a time. This all-volunteer group, which has been active for over 12 years, meets every Thursday night to connect with homeless individuals, offering them hot meals, essential supplies, and, most importantly, compassion.
Ed's approach to helping others is rooted in humility and kindness. As he puts it, “We’re all in this together. When someone’s going through hard times, you look out for them.” His words encapsulate the deep sense of community and responsibility that drives this group to keep showing up week after week, no matter the weather or circumstances.
The video captures the unique model of this outreach, where volunteers arrive in their own cars, each bringing different supplies. It's like a mobile community where the homeless can “shop” from car to car, receiving not just physical necessities but also the warmth of human connection. One volunteer, Donny, expresses the profound impact this work has had on him, saying, “I get gratitude. It makes the problems in my life seem small, and it’s good to help.”
Perhaps one of the most touching moments in the video is when Ed reveals the humble origins of his mission. When asked why he started this outreach, he replies, “You inspired me.” This statement is a testament to the power of leading by example and the profound ripple effect that one person's actions can have on others. As I reflect on this, it’s humbling to know that Invisible People played a part in inspiring Ed, but the real heroes are the volunteers who continue to give their time and energy to help those in need.
Another volunteer shares how their perception of homelessness changed after joining Ed’s group: “I found out that all the stereotypes that people have about homeless people are wrong. They’re wonderful, kind, intelligent, hardworking, good people that just had life not go their way.” This transformation of understanding is one of the greatest gifts that mutual aid work can offer - not just to the recipients, but to the volunteers themselves.
Ed’s dedication and the volunteers' commitment prove that doing good truly inspires others to do good. If you’re moved by this story, consider supporting Ed’s efforts by visiting his website to make a donation. If you live near the St. Louis area, you’re invited to join this compassionate community of volunteers. And if you’re inspired to start something similar in your own area, don’t hesitate. As Ed’s journey shows, one small act of kindness can ignite a movement that touches countless lives.
This video is more than just a glimpse into a mutual aid group - it’s a powerful reminder that we are all capable of making a difference. So, watch, be inspired, and then go out and do good. Together, we can create a world where compassion and kindness prevail.
More:
Ktown for All Helping Homeless People in Los Angeles’s Koreatown • Ktown for All Helping ...
Adam Conover with SELAH Homeless Coalition in Los Angeles • Adam Conover with SELA...
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About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, childhood trauma, lack of a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.