Napoleon is credited with saying, “leaders are dealers in hope.”

After spending several hours contacting numerous shelters seeking housing for someone in need, an overwhelming realization of the hopeless condition among a large segment of our population was apparent.

According to a 2009 report from the National Coalition for the Homeless, approximately 3.5 million people will experience homelessness. A 2013 report from Frontsteps claims 633,782 people experience homelessness on any given night in the U.S. Additional reports indicate these numbers increase yearly.

Statistics concerning domestic violence, physical, emotional, and sexual abuse reveal millions of homes face these situations every day.

We quickly understand how people begin to feel hopeless. A number of explanations could be given as to the cause for this condition. The need, however, is for leaders to provide a measure of hope.

Leaders extend hope by learning to listen and expressing concern.

Leaders need to offer hope that someone is trustworthy.

Leaders possess a responsibility that goes beyond words and demonstrates care by action.

People will follow leaders who provide hope.