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Extra Read: What He Gave Me Was More Than a Quarter


Reflection: Prevention begins with how we see people, not by what they need, but by what they give. 

I recently visited Aldi, where you need to insert a quarter to use a shopping cart. It was my first time, so I paused to read the sign: (paraphrasing) “Insert a quarter. Return the cart. Get your quarter back.” Straightforward enough.

As I turned to go back to my car for a quarter, I passed a man sitting quietly near the carts. He held a sign, clearly asking for help. I noticed him, but I didn’t see him. I was focused on the types of snacks I would buy for the STYC advocates. 😋🍪🍕🍏

Then I heard, “Ma’am, here’s a quarter.”  The man extended his hand.  🔘

I was stunned and for a moment, I didn't know how to receive it.  A person most folks would label “in need” was the one meeting my need, without hesitation. He didn’t know me. He owed me nothing. But he offered what he had without conditions. I accepted with "thank you so much."

That quarter felt heavier than most. Not in weight, but in meaning. Which is why I’m compelled to share this moment.

Prevention begins in moments like this.

It starts with how we see one another—not as problems to fix, but as people with potential. We often focus prevention work on deficits—what’s missing, what’s broken, who’s at risk. But real prevention recognizes that even those struggling have value, dignity, and the power to give.

Imagine what it means for a young person labeled “at risk” to be told:
“You are still a giver. You still matter. Your voice counts.”

That’s prevention at its root: restoring value and reinforcing connection before harm takes hold.

So yes, that man gave me a quarter. But he also gave me a lesson on humility, generosity, and the deep well of resilience that lives in our community. Prevention isn't always about big programs or policies. Sometimes, it’s about how we treat one another, especially when no one’s watching.

Breaking Down the Quote Behind the Reflection

👀 “Prevention begins with how we see people.”
Before any outreach begins, it starts with a mindset. Do we see people as broken or as capable?

 👪 “Not by what they need…”
Need can be visible. But when we focus only on that, we may miss the person’s humanity.

👥👥“…but by what they give.”
Everyone has something to offer. That act of giving builds dignity, connection, and resilience—powerful tools of prevention.

 A Hollingsworth

#PreventionStartsWithDignity #STYCtalks #ExtraRead #CommunityStrength #YouthPrevention















Contributor’s Note: Bonnie Taylor, MSW, LCSW, is a dedicated Mental Health Therapist based in Louisville, KY, specializing in trauma care for youth and adults. With a deep commitment to community well-being, she has been collaborating with STYC for the past two years, offering her expertise and support wherever needed.

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