This summer, I worked as a canvasser. For those who do not know, canvassing involves going door-to-door educating the public, and of course, in my case, asking for money. The organization I worked for was a non-profit environmental group that worked to get statewide environmental laws passed.
When I described what I did this summer to people, I saw them cringe and repeat my words, “You went door-to-door?” Yes, I went door-to-door. But, my job required a lot more than standing on people’s porches and asking for money; I talked to people to promote a cause I feel strongly about.
After standing on over 1,000 doorsteps this summer, I learned a lot about people, and the newest trends in welcome mats. The towns we visited varied greatly. One night, I found myself in a crime-ridden city with crack houses further down the block. Later that week, I talked to the people who actually occupy those half-million dollar mansions. No one was excluded, I talked to everyone.
Regardless of the type of home they lived in, the women I met while canvassing replaced my mother. When it was raining, I received countless donations of rain coats and umbrellas. And when it was sweltering hot, every door made sure my water bottle was filled with water and ice. I had people ask me what grade I was entering at the local junior high; I told them that I was going to be a sophomore in college. I only had one man scream at me to get off his property; it made me cry. The lady at the next door gave me a hug. In short, the job restored my faith in people.
The people I worked with came from varied backgrounds, too. We had a PhD between jobs and people who didn’t graduate from high school. Everyone had different reasons for being there. The PhD was tired of being a college professor and wanted to see the other side of things. Others felt it was their duty. Some just needed a job. I learned about as much from my coworkers as from the people I talked to while canvassing.
So, next time someone knocks on your door, even if you aren’t interested in what they’re saying, remember, they’re people, like me. So be nice.
