New Book Review: "Do Something for Nothing"
New book review for Do Something for Nothing: Seeing Beneath the Surface of Homelessness, through the Simple Act of a Haircut, by Joshua Coombes, Akashic Books, 2021:
Copy provided by Amazon.
The subtitle to this book provides a great summary for what this book is all about, albeit from a limited perspective: "seeing beneath the surface of homelessness, through the simple act of a haircut." The introduction furthers this thought by stating that "this book isn't about homelessness, it's about humans and showing up for one another where we can." However, as a longtime consultant I also view this book as a phenomenal demonstration of the pro bono experience, which is distinct from traditional volunteerism: using one's professional skills to provide services to those who are unable to afford them.
I've personally performed both volunteer and pro bono services, but while I've served individuals in need as a volunteer, I've never served individuals in need as a pro bono consultant, instead serving mediators situated in-between myself and the end recipients. And my lack of experience in this area is why I especially appreciate what Coombes has to share in this book. Not only does the author actually carry out a professional service, cutting hair, but he spends time with individuals before, during, and after providing service to get to know each individual. And in my view, this is a great example of why transformational relationships are so much more powerful than transactional relationships.