Issue link: https://alabamapower.uberflip.com/i/673072
person," said Benga Harrison, director of Hands on Birmingham. "Homeless people will often tell you they feel like they are invisible and don't exist. To have someone spend the whole day with them, engaging with them and looking them eye to eye is huge. It makes them feel human." Newton commended APSO for its support of the event, saying it shows the community that Alabama Power is "more than an energy company." "The community outreach that APSO provides is huge because it puts a face to the company," Newton said. "It shows the homeless people that APSO cares enough to take care of its community." Hedrick said her experience that day was unforgettable. "You see people on the side of the road, and you want to do something for them, but is that dollar truly going to get them anywhere?" said Hedrick, Magic City APSO president-elect and engineer at the Metro South Office. "Seeing them get what they really need – not just a dollar, but something that will start building a future for them – meant a lot." Birmingham Division Market Specialist Kevin Williams said he was paired with a woman who "knew exactly what she needed." She visited the vision care booth, received a dental exam, got information about available housing and asked a nurse to check her blood pressure and diabetes. "It was an eye-opening experience to see that many people in line in Birmingham that are in need of services," said Williams. "There 3 UAB volunteer consults with Birmingham participant in Boutwell Auditorium. Williams assists woman he was paired with for the day.