Roger

At 54 years of age, married, and having spent 23 years behind bars, I emerged from prison with a determination to redefine my life. Urban Alchemy hired me to monitor public bathrooms, and I did not know that this was the beginning of my career in community service. Initially driven by a need to make money, my perspective shifted when the pandemic hit. I was given the opportunity to work at “shelter-in-place” hotels for people experiencing homelessness. This experience gave me the chance to understand the importance of serving the most vulnerable. Due to my experience in prison, I was able to relate to the guests at our hotel and became very proud that I could help the community this way. Advancing within the organization, I was promoted to a supervisor and then deputy director. Eventually, I was trusted to become the project director for Urban Alchemy’s second Safe Rest Village in Portland. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue my career by running this shelter for people experiencing homelessness. I remain indebted to Urban Alchemy for helping me rebuild my life while I give a helping hand to others.