William Riley’s journey is one of perseverance and gratitude, shaped by both early loss and eventual redemption. When William was just 14 months old, his mother passed away, and his aunt and uncle in Florida raised him. As an only child, he had everything he wanted, but as he grew older, he began to rebel. Despite his aunt’s warnings to stay in school, William had a mind of his own and soon found himself smoking marijuana and getting into legal trouble. Tickets turned into jail time, and his life began to take a dark turn.

Eventually, William made his way to California, where the allure of the fast life and drugs led him into a deeper spiral of addiction and legal problems. By the late 1990s, he found himself on Skid Row, lost in a cycle of addiction and incarceration. For years, William was trapped between the streets and prison, unable to break free from the life that had taken hold of him.

In June 2021, William arrived at The Midnight Mission (TMM), feeling like it was his last chance. His behavior and legal troubles had nearly resulted in a four-year prison sentence, but the judge showed leniency because William chose to enter TMM’s recovery program. At TMM, William began to truly understand how to live a better life, following the principles of the 12-step program. He found a mentor and, for the first time, became open to taking suggestions. His commitment to the program has been transformative, and he credits it with completely changing his life. This transformation is a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with addiction.

Since joining TMM, William has flourished in his recovery. He graduated from the program in 2023 and is currently working toward securing low-income senior housing. His past legal issues have made the process challenging, but with the persistent help of Ingrid, TMM’s housing navigator, William remains hopeful. “Ingrid has been amazing,” he says, expressing his gratitude for her dedication in submitting numerous housing applications on his behalf.

In addition to finding stability, William has also embraced service roles within TMM. He serves as the dorm representative for the men’s dorm, the lead man in residential services, and the secretary of the Wednesday night meeting at TMM. He is also the treasurer of the 12:01 alumni club. Always eager to be of service to others, William offers this advice: “Step one is being honest with yourself. If you can’t be honest with yourself, you can’t be honest with anyone else.”

Looking ahead, William has big plans. Once he completes probation, he plans to work for a year in TMM’s residential services to give back to the organization that helped him so much. After that, he hopes to move with his new wife to Florida and reconnect with his roots. He is committed to building a stable, fulfilling life.

William Riley is deeply grateful for TMM’s staff and resources, which provided him with the support he needed when he had no other options. With a renewed sense of purpose, William is focused on continuing his journey of service and healing, one step at a time.

Christopher Booker’s journey is one of transformation, from feeling like an outsider to finding a purpose in helping others.

Growing up in Long Beach, California, Christopher was the only child of his parents but had much older stepsiblings, which contributed to his sense of isolation. Despite coming from a hardworking, lower-middle-class family where education was valued, Christopher constantly felt like he didn’t fit in. As one of the only Black children in his private school, and later excelling academically in public school, this feeling only deepened. He often felt like an outsider, struggling to connect with his peers. 

In high school, he found a way to fit in through drug use. Experimenting with marijuana and drug sales, Christopher became part of a group where, for the first time, he felt seen and accepted. He carried this identity into college but quickly found himself consumed by addiction. Even though he was given opportunities, including scholarships, his drug use took over, and he turned them down, prioritizing the need to be liked by his peers over his future. 

The path led him to heavier drug use, including opioids and heroin, for nearly ten years. Despite holding down a job and being a father, Christopher’s life spiraled as he deceived others to maintain his addiction. It wasn’t until a complete mental breakdown, followed by a period of living on the streets that he realized his life was slipping away. 

Desperate for help, Christopher reached out to family, and a contact suggested The Midnight Mission (TMM). A conversation with Matt Scharf and the warm welcome from Thomas Stark encouraged him to enter TMM’s program, where he began his recovery. Christopher immersed himself in fitness, using the gym as his sanctuary. After the gym closed following the departure of the previous coordinator, Christopher took it upon himself to clean and maintain it. His commitment didn’t go unnoticed, and eventually, he was offered the role of health and wellness coordinator at TMM, a testament to the power of community in personal transformation.

Today, Christopher is over two years sober. He helps others transform their bodies and minds, drawing strength from his own experiences to guide them. His advice to his younger self? “Transformation is now. Life is now, and death is whenever, so get to the good stuff now.”

Jason Fowler’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and the power of second chances. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Jason grew up poor and on welfare, a challenging start that set the tone for much of his early life. From the ages of 13 to 28, he found himself caught in a cycle of incarceration, going in and out of the system. Life seemed bleak, and Jason struggled with depression, even spending time in mental institutions after attempts to harm himself.

One day, while shopping at Bottega Louie in Downtown LA, a woman who worked at The Midnight Mission (TMM) approached Jason. Sensing his struggle, she handed him her business card and encouraged him to seek help at TMM. A few years later, Jason took that advice to heart and walked through the doors of TMM, ready to make a change.

January 27, 2016, marks the day that changed Jason’s life forever—his sobriety date. As he began his recovery journey, a pivotal moment came when Eli, a TMM advocate, told him, “Mr. Fowler, what you’re looking for is inside here and not out there.” Those words resonated deeply with Jason, motivating him to take his recovery seriously.

Jason is not just a man in recovery; he is a beacon of hope for others. He travels to attend meetings and conferences, sharing his story to help those who are also on the path of recovery. With over 2,000 contacts, Jason has built a strong support network, allowing him to reach out whenever he feels the weight of depression coming back. He considers himself just a regular guy, paying his dues and contributing to society.

Jason’s journey has also had a profound impact on his family. His mother, inspired by her son’s success, is now three years sober. Jason continues to look after her, grateful for the opportunity to be a positive influence in her life. He remains connected to TMM, regularly visiting to pay his alumni fees and check on those currently in the program. Staying busy and engaged helps him stay on track, and every day he works his steps, life gets better.

Jason is deeply grateful to The Midnight Mission for giving him another shot at life. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of community, and the belief that no matter how far you’ve fallen, there’s always a way back up.

Eltwan Jones’s journey is a profound story of resilience and transformation, rooted in the challenging streets of Los Angeles. Born and raised in a world of instability, Eltwan spent his early years with his grandmother, finding comfort and security in her care. However, when his mother came to take him back “home” to Watts, Eltwan’s sense of belonging was shattered. Thrust into a new environment with siblings he had never met, he was left with a deep sense of insecurity that would follow him for years.

Growing up, Eltwan was taught to hide the truth. His mother, struggling with addiction, urged him to conceal their reality, skewing his understanding of honesty and morality. This confusion led him to make choices that would ultimately send him down a dark path. By seventh grade, a chance encounter with alcohol ignited a craving that would haunt him for years, pulling him deeper into addiction.

Despite securing a job as a longshoreman, Eltwan’s life spiraled out of control as his addiction took hold. He lost his job twice, and in a desperate moment, he fell six stories while trying to break into his locked apartment, leaving him with multiple fractures and a limp that serves as a constant reminder of how close he came to losing everything.

Eltwan’s turning point came when he reconnected with an old friend, Shawty, who had found sobriety through The Midnight Mission (TMM). After battling thoughts of ending his life, Eltwan decided to give TMM a try, embarking on a 14-month journey of recovery. Supported by the staff at TMM and his mother’s boyfriend, Ray, who had helped her achieve 26 years of sobriety, Eltwan found the strength to change.

Today, Eltwan is dedicated to giving back. He collects flat-screen TVs and appliances, storing them to give to people starting fresh after recovery. He dreams of going back to school to learn more about TV repair and electronic troubleshooting, hoping to continue helping others while also generating income. He’s even considering opening a transitional living space to offer a safe haven for those on the path to recovery.

Eltwan’s story is a testament to the power of inner strength and the impact of second chances. He stands as an inspiration, driven by a desire to support others on the journey he once walked himself. Join us in hearing more about Eltwan’s incredible transformation. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay connected with more inspiring stories like his!

Ronnie Williams was born in Arizona but moved to Los Angeles when he was just five years old. A bright student in elementary school, Ronnie’s path took a drastic turn after an encounter that would change his life. Encouraged by his mother to fight the school bully to protect his siblings, Ronnie did just that, and the experience left him feeling fearless. However, this newfound bravado marked the beginning of a downward spiral.

Over the years, Ronnie’s life became a series of destructive choices. He spent 25 years of his life in prison, entangled in a cycle of violence and crime. He was shot twice—once at the age of 18 and again years later. After the second shooting, Ronnie began questioning his life’s direction. In that moment of pain and confusion, he felt as though God asked him, “Why?”—a question that sparked a deep soul-searching journey.

Ronnie’s “coming to God” moment led him to seek out the company of people with “common sense,” those who were not on a path of self-destruction. However, his struggles with addiction were far from over. His drinking and smoking habits, which had started innocently enough during his early days of “hanging out with the boys,” evolved into a “phenomenal obsession” and ultimately a full-blown addiction.

Despite his attempts to turn his life around, including seeking help from The Beacon House in San Pedro, Ronnie’s battle with addiction persisted. He relapsed within 24 hours of entering the program, a wake-up call that made him realize how deeply he needed help. The next day, he walked into The Midnight Mission (TMM), initially seeking only housing. But as he participated in the program, something began to change. Ronnie’s determination to overcome his addiction became more evident. He started to pick up tools from the recovery program and, for the first time, made the conscious choice to take sobriety seriously.

When Ronnie graduated from the program, the presence of his family at the ceremony meant the world to him. Today, he is approaching two years of sobriety, a milestone that fills him with pride and gratitude. Ronnie is also looking to the future with hope and ambition. He’s considering going back to school to study music, a passion he has nurtured during his time at TMM. Music became a powerful tool in his recovery, allowing him to express his emotions and experiences. With over 700 songs written while at The Midnight, Ronnie dreams of one day producing music, proving that there is always time to learn and create.

Freeman H. emerged from The Midnight Mission (TMM) in June 2024, not just as a graduate but as a newly hired case manager, marking a remarkable turnaround in his life’s journey.

Raised by his grandmother after his mother gave birth to him at just 14 years old, Freeman was showered with love and care. But tragedy struck early when his grandmother passed away when he was 16, leaving him adrift. By 27, he found himself facing a federal sentence for gang terrorism, a path that seemed irreversible until fate intervened. He served just three years of a 44-year sentence.

With only $27.50 and newfound freedom, Freeman embarked on a tumultuous path, battling substance abuse and finding solace in community programs. It was during a pivotal moment in a substance abuse program that he met Pete, who encouraged him to pursue education at a community college. Freeman found his calling in Social Welfare and attended 12-step meetings, finding support from mentors who saw his potential even when he doubted himself.

After 25 years without a drink, Freeman picked up a drink. There was nothing going wrong in his life, he thought he could handle one drink, but he had a phenomenon of craving that he could not stop once he started. He drank alcohol for the next six years. TMM became a beacon of hope when Marcus, TMM’ s Security Director, opened the door to recovery once more. Initially overwhelmed by the desperation on Skid Row, Freeman found purpose in TMM’ s community. Matt Scharf, TMM’ s Director of Programs, advised Freeman that recovery must be for oneself. The thought resonated deeply, anchoring Freeman’s commitment to change.

Freeman’s determination to repay the kindness and support he received is truly inspiring. He immersed himself in TMM’ s program, rediscovering his passion for advocacy and counseling. Guided by Matt, he embraced education once again and committed himself to helping others at TMM. Freeman now embodies resilience, striving to make every place he touches better than he found it, driven by a newfound dedication to living within his means and embracing a life of service.

Freeman’s journey is not just a testament to the transformative power of second chances, but also a powerful reminder of the impact we can have on each other’s lives. His story underscores the vital role of community support and the importance of compassion and opportunity in breaking cycles of adversity. It’s a story that can inspire us all to reach out and make a difference.

Thomas S. had a career as a limo driver, a job that he was passionate about. He was known for his punctuality, professionalism, and friendly demeanor. While working, he frequently saw catering trucks from The Midnight Mission (TMM), even stopping once to buy a burrito. This was the beginning of a series of events that would change his life.

In 2007, Thomas turned to TMM for help with his addiction. He stayed for a week and managed to stay sober for five years before relapsing, though he continued working.

In 2018, Thomas’ father fell gravely ill. His father expressed his readiness to die but was worried Thomas might spiral out of control. Thomas promised he wouldn’t, a promise he kept for six months until his mother’s sudden and unexpected death. The loss of his mother, coupled with the guilt he felt for being a ‘problem child’ despite her unconditional love, was a devastating blow. In his grief, Thomas turned to cocaine to cope with his pain and loss. He ended up living on the streets, a shadow of his former self. He would call his wife, a person in recovey also, and she reminded him of the home, job, and love waiting for him, but he couldn’t stop his destructive behavior.

One fateful morning at 4 am, while eating soup in a church across from TMM, Thomas witnessed a beacon of hope. The lights in dorm one came on, illuminating a path for Thomas. Recognizing the need for a drastic change, he made a life-altering decision to step through TMM’s gates, seeking the help he desperately needed.

Thomas planned to stay for six months, but fate had other plans. He was assigned to the residential service desk, where he distributed necessities like toothbrushes, deodorant, and blankets. He enjoyed helping others.

Thomas’ life took a significant turn when he met Jeanette Rowe, the Director of Programs at TMM. Recognizing his potential, she took him under her wing, providing guidance and support. She saw beyond his past struggles and believed in his ability to make a positive change. Jeanette’s faith in him was a catalyst for his transformation. She bought him lunch and suggested he would be a good fit at TMM. Initially skeptical, Thomas started running small errands for Jeanette. With each task, he became convinced that working at TMM was his divine purpose.

Thomas graduated from the Recovery Program in 2019, completing something for the first time in a long time. He loved what TMM had done for him, providing refuge for those suffering from adversity and offering rest and restoration to the weary.

Today, Thomas is not just a Problem-Solving Specialist at TMM’s Access Center, but a beacon of hope for the homeless. He dedicates himself to connecting individuals with the resources they need to end their homelessness. His journey from a limo driver to a problem-solver is a testament to his unwavering commitment to service and his ability to rise above adversity.

Quentin spent his childhood in Culver City; then he moved to Long Beach. He started
drinking and using drugs, and his life spiraled out of control. He ended up on 6thStreet
in Skid Row.

A former TMM staff member noticed Quentin’s struggle and introduced him to TMM’s Recovery Program. Quentin, weary of his chaotic life, mustered the courage to embrace the opportunity TMM presented.

The 12-step recovery program provided Quentin with a safe space to confront his addiction. The experienced staff, who had walked the path of sobriety for years, guided him with their suggestions, fostering a sense of trust and hope.

Since his graduation in 2016, Quentin has found stability in his own home. He now holds a full-time job at TMM and dreams of furthering his education to reach a management position. Quentin’s heart is filled with gratitude towards TMM for the resources that helped him rebuild his life. He urges those in need to approach TMM, ready to embrace change with open hearts and receptive minds.

Ted Maguire grew up in Boston, MA, but his life took a tumultuous turn due to decisions that led him in and out of jail. His struggles with drug and alcohol addiction stripped away everything positive in his life, leaving him homeless and desperate, evading warrants and feeling devoid of hope. However, his life took a remarkable turn when he crossed paths with Ben Shirley.

Ben, who had experienced homelessness and addiction firsthand, shared his story of transformation through The Midnight Mission (TMM), offering Ted a glimmer of hope. Ted was desperate to get his life together, so he contacted Eli Hardy, one of TMM’s advocates. He was amazed that TMM would take him in when he had nothing to give back. Ted pulled resources together and made it to Los Angeles, hoping for a new life for himself.

With the support of TMM, Ted was on his way to a new life. He threw himself into the recovery program. When he received his 30-day sobriety certificate from Clancy Ismilund, who was instrumental in bringing the 12-step philosophy to TMM, Ted knew he had made a turn in life.

Ted took advantage of every resource TMM offered. Ted worked in the kitchen through TMM’s work therapy program. He learned how to be responsible and show up on time. Ted learned what it meant to hold a job. In addition to work therapy, he took computer classes to get an education. He joined the Skid Row Running Club and learned how to run and the importance of teammates. Ted got involved with Music With A Mission, becoming a member of TMM’s band, The Mission to Midnight. Ted was blown away that he was given the chance to perform at the world-famous Whiskey-A-Go. He was grateful to serve the homeless community alongside Mr. T on holidays. Ted was honored to speak at Street Symphony’s We Rise LA to bring music into shelters.

TMM helped Ted settle the warrants for his arrest. He was able to get health and dental insurance. Receiving dental care was a boost in Ted’s confidence. When he arrived at TMM, he had one tooth, and today, he has a radiant smile. The individuals who shared moments with Ted during his time at TMM bestowed upon him the invaluable gift of their time—time spent listening and conversing. Ted embraced their guidance, actively listening to their suggestions and striving each day to improve upon the last. Through TMM’s support, Ted learned not only to extend love and compassion to others but also to nurture a newfound love and respect for himself.

Upon graduating from TMM’s Healthy Living Program, Ted embarked on a new chapter armed with a driver’s license, a car, and a promising job with a reputable company. TMM had not only provided Ted with a life beyond his wildest dreams but also instilled in him a deep desire to pay it forward. Today, Ted dedicates himself to volunteering and supporting others in need, embodying the transformative power of compassion and second chances that he experienced firsthand at TMM.

Edward Duncan

TMM Alumnus

Edward’s roots began in Compton, CA. His life took a tumultuous turn when his beloved grandfather passed away in 2009, plunging him into the depths of addiction. At 19 years old, he found himself couch surfing, battling the harsh realities of homelessness.

Despite the daunting challenges, Edward sought help. He immersed himself in various programs designed to address both his addiction and homelessness. However, setbacks dotted his path. After his release from prison in 2012, he faced a turning point. Realizing he needed a lifeline, he reached out to his mother for support. She told him about The Midnight Mission (TMM), a beacon of hope for those seeking recovery.

The seeds of transformation were sown during Edward’s first encounter with TMM, but they struggled to take root. It wasn’t until 2023 that he returned, armed with newfound determination. The words of recovery resonated deeply within him. Engaging with a 12-step group and heeding the advice of a sponsor, he embarked on a transformative journey that would redefine his life.

Fueled by a burning desire to effect change, Edward aspires to pursue further education. He envisions a career that empowers the homeless community with a message of resilience and hope. Edward understands that embracing guidance is pivotal in breaking the cycle of homelessness and addiction, and he is eager to share this insight with others.

A new chapter of life began for Edward when he left TMM. For the first time, Edward held the lease to his own place, a sanctuary to plant new roots. Grateful for this newfound direction, he extended heartfelt appreciation to TMM for illuminating his path to self-sufficiency.

Mario Ocampo, TMM Alumnus

Physically and Spiritually Fit

Mario Ocampo spent 18 years of his life in prison. He heard about The Midnight Mission’s recovery program from a fellow inmate. Since Mario wanted a different life for himself, he asked to be released to The Midnight Mission. His life was changed. He learned how to live a life free from any substances. One of Mario’s favorite quotes is, “You can’t stay sober unless you make a better life for yourself.” He has done exactly that.

Mario had always loved the movie industry. While he was at TMM, he took scriptwriting classes. He enjoyed the creativity of writing and continues to write scripts today. Mario decided to go to school and graduated from West LA College. He became a grip in the movie industry.

Mario was able to reconnect with his family and establish loving relationships with them. He spent the first half of his life in and out of jail and could not be there for his family. He has mended his relationships with his family, spends time with them, and helps whenever he is needed.

Mario listened to the people who told him he could accomplish anything. He began running with the Skid Row Running Club while he was at The Midnight Mission. Mario had never had a mentor, and he found that in Skid Row Running Club founder Judge Craig Mitchell. Since joining the running club, Mario has run in three international marathons. He has become a triathlete, completing the world-famous Alcatraz Triathlon.

Mario knows gratitude is an action word. He shows how thankful he is for his life and for being sober by giving back. Mario returns to The Midnight Mission to help other program participants in recovery. Today, he is a positive mentor to other men seeking a different way of life.

Abel Soto returned to his home state of California after getting a divorce in Arizona. He coped with the pain of the breakup with alcohol. After five weeks on the streets, Abel came to TMM to get back on his feet. Since being at TMM, he has had opportunities for employment with his guard card and forklift license. Abel is extremely grateful The Midnight Mission gave him the hope he needed for a new beginning.

Shawn O’Neal was born in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, and raised in Sacramento, CA. He moved to Florida to live with his uncle in 2010 until his uncle kicked him out. He was homeless in Florida until his mom gave him a bus ticket back to California. He stopped in Los Angeles on his way back to Sacramento and stayed.

Shawn has always been interested in art culture and wanted to live in a city environment. He moved to several different places throughout LA and ended up living in Skid Row. He was addicted to hard drugs and became comfortable in the drug scene.

Shawn realized he needed a change. When he asked about resources, he heard about The Midnight Mission. He was intimidated by the outside of TMM in Skid, but his mind changed when he saw how clean and structured TMM was on the inside. It took Shawn three times at TMM to get used to being in an environment where people genuinely cared and wanted to help him. When he accepted the help given, he was on the road to recovery.

In addition to learning how to stay sober, Shawn acquired many life skills through the Healthy Living Program. He learned how to budget money and pay his bills on time. TMM gave Shawn the ability to change his life, and he advocates for others to come to TMM for a change in their lives.

After graduating from TMM, Shawn found his own apartment. He enjoys having a space of his own to relax after a long day’s work. He aspires to go to a barber college and then to a city college with an open mind for educational goals. Shawn is grateful TMM has opened the world for him to pursue many options with sober confidence.

Mason grew up in a broken home in Southern California. He got in trouble in school and tried his first geographical cure. He moved overseas for a new beginning, but trouble traveled with Mason. He was incarcerated, then deported back to the United States.

Mason had enough of the rebellious lifestyle and decided to stop doing drugs. He didn’t do any work to discover why he had turned to drugs in the first place. Mason just forged ahead, working in the oil fields for the next eight years. He went back overseas, and it was then he started using drugs again.

He came back to America and quickly lost everything. He returned to selling drugs until he was arrested and incarcerated in LA County Jail. Mason came to TMM from jail on probation but did not take the program seriously. Then, the Covid Pandemic hit, and he thought he would die, so he left the program.

Mason received a probation violation, and he went to prison. He met men serving sentences of over 40 years, and he saw what his future would be if he did not change his ways.

When Mason was released from prison, he returned to TMM. TMM staff remembered him and welcomed him with open arms. Mason was immediately enrolled in the Recovery Program, and TMM got him back on his feet quickly.

Today, Mason is serious about his recovery; he wants a new life. He doesn’t want to return to the oil fields and feel like something is missing from his life. Mason always felt that a chapter of his life was unwritten, a transformation that had not occurred. He spent most of his life pretending to be someone else, knowing it would never work. Mason is prepared to do inner work to become one with a higher power so he can heal and finally become comfortable with himself.

Despite growing up with good parents, Vernell G.’s life took a different turn from his upbringing. He fell into a life of drugs, alcohol, and gangs. He spent years of his life in jails and prisons. He had lost his way and all self-control.

During his seventh stay at The Midnight Mission, Vernell took his sobriety seriously. He was defeated and at a point of surrender. For the first time in 62 years, Vernell was ready to take direction from someone else. God had placed people in his life from TMM to show him the way.

Vernell decided to follow the simple path provided to him. He became willing and open-minded and ready to take suggestions. People from TMM were a beacon of hope, and Vernell decided if they could recover, he could, too.

TMM gave him the tools to see life more clearly and in a different light. He says he takes the recovery information and the lived experience of the advocates and meditates on it. By doing this, Vernell has a better understanding of his Creator. One of the ways he grew in his recovery was to process his day like a computer. If there are good behaviors and thoughts, it gets filed away, and if there are displeasing thought or behaviors, they get deleted.

Vernell has learned to put recovery first and not rush. He decided to stay at TMM to get a solid foundation of recovery despite having housing. He said he goes home to check his mail and has seen the temptations in Skid Row. He asked God to blind his eyes to the drugs and alcohol and keep him straight. When he has kept God first, Vernell is in a better place. He has deep gratitude for TMM. He said, “The Midnight Mission saves lives and saves souls.”

John Adams III was squandering his life away in addiction. He had endured trauma in his life, and the only way he knew how to deal with it was to use drugs and alcohol. He lived with self-pity, which was like quicksand taking him deeper and deeper into despair.

John’s first encounter with TMM was in our Courtyard. He met Doris and Thomas in our Access Center. John would come to take a shower, get clean clothes, and eat his meals with us. He knew TMM had more than emergency services to help him; it had the life-changing resources he needed to make a new start.

John decided to give TMM’s Recovery Program a chance. He was willing to learn how to live a different way of life. He took suggestions to get a sponsor and take direction. Instead of living on the outside edges of life, he has decided to stay in the middle.

TMM has taught John how to cope differently. John lives in truth and is honest with himself. He found the inner strength to move forward. He changed from being self-centered to focusing on service to others.

John has a bright future ahead of him. He is waiting for a job placement and has been matched for housing. He is on his way to a life of self-sufficiency.

After living under a bush for four months, Andrew Linares made a desperate call to a friend. He was sick and tired of scraping to survive. He was living in deep loneliness, no longer feeling like a human being, and was craving meaningful interaction with others.

Andrew had not heard of places like The Midnight Mission. When he arrived, he was overwhelmed and afraid of the unknown, but he was willing to do whatever was suggested. He worked with a recovery advocate and was eventually reacquainted with his family, something he thought would never happen.

At five months of recovery, Andrew’s cunning, baffling, and powerful disease told him he could have a drink. The day after Christmas 2015, Andrew picked up a drink. Instead of giving him the relief he’d felt while drinking in the past, he saw how much he wanted a different way of life. Andrew knew the consequences of telling on himself to the advocates at The Midnight Mission, but he wanted to commence to live a new way of life with rigorous honesty. Andrew was filled with gratitude when he experienced compassion and companionship from TMM instead of judgment. Because Andrew did what was right, he was able to stay and graduate from TMM’s participant program.

While he was a program participant, he worked in the education department, helping men with limited schooling the tools they needed to create resumes. Andrew discovered his real purpose was to help others. As an alumnus of the program, Andrew would come back to connect with participants, sharing his experience, strength, and hope.

In 2018, Andrew began his career at The Midnight Mission as the Community Events Coordinator, and after two years was promoted to Volunteer Manager. As Volunteer Manager, Andrew has an opportunity to share his personal success story through the services at TMM. Andrew is a shining example of the fruit of honesty, openness, and willingness.

Jon Lewis grew up in Long Beach. For twenty years, he was a bartender and bar manager. Jon maintained his job and lifestyle while drinking and smoking marijuana until he lost the ability to stop. Jon lost his job, and received unemployment. Unemployment enabled him to drink all day and night; drinking controlled him.

Jon could not pay his rent because he spent all his money on alcohol, and eventually, he lost his apartment. Jon decided to move into his 1969 Volkswagen. He saw losing his apartment as freedom; it gave him less responsibility. He would go to his mom’s house to shower and his family would talk to him about his drinking but he did not think he was doing anything wrong.

Jon started to park his Volkswagen at Chavez Park in Long Beach. He got to know the people living in the park, and they drank as he drank. Jon made friends with a drug dealer, and they would hang out together even though Jon did not do drugs. One afternoon, a guy struck Jon so hard that he saw stars. At that moment, Jon had a moment of clarity. He saw the way he was living would lead to his death, and he asked God to help him.

He drove back to his mom’s house. Jon’s sister had decades of sobriety, and when they called her to say he needed help, she said she had been waiting for Jon to call her. Jon’s sister gave him the phone number of one of her sober friends, a graduate of The Midnight Mission. When Jon called him, he told him to meet him at 6 am at the corner of 6th and San Pedro Streets. Jon’s mom put him on the blue line, and as he got off the train, fear overtook him as he walked through Skid Row. He met his sister’s friend in the courtyard of TMM on February 8, 2016. Jon has not looked back since that day.

Jon was put into detox, and as his head cleared, he was ready to do anything to get sober. He met with TMM advocates and was willing to take all their suggestions. He was given a job at the front desk in the dormitory, and TMM paid for Jon to get his GED. TMM took him to the doctor for a thorough check-up and found his liver had high signs of harmful enzymes. Six months into living a sober life, his liver had healed and improved.

Jon started going to 12-step meetings every day. He attended all the advocate classes and even had a favorite advocate, Eli Handy. Jon continued to put one foot in front of another. Since he had a driver’s license, he became TMM van’s driver taking other program participants to meetings.

Because of Jon’s affirmative actions, he was asked to work with Clancy’s assistant. He loved being of service in the administrative office of TMM. He was honored to do any task asked of him.

After six months in the Healthy Living Program, Jon sent out resumes to get a job outside TMM. His first job was at UPS. His sister let him make payments on a hand-me-down car so he could get back and forth to work. Steadily, Jon’s life got better.

He graduated from the program in 2017. His family was so proud of him at graduation, then again when he celebrated his first sobriety anniversary. Jon moved into the 3rd-floor transitional apartments and continued to save his money as he worked and went to 12-step meetings. Jon was able to move from the apartment to transitional housing on 54th and Vermont.

Jon got a job in Long Beach and returned to his hometown to help take care of his mom, who had been sick. He spent three years of quality time caring for his mom before she died.

Today, Jon participates in regular 12-step meetings, works for a friend in an alternative medical business and owns a new car. He enjoys activities he loved as a child: bodyboarding, kayaking, and going to the beach.

Jon praises and thanks TMM. He felt soulless before coming to TMM, and TMM helped him find his soul. Since his first day at TMM, he has not looked back. He keeps in touch with other graduates from TMM. Jon recommends those coming into the program go to meetings, get a sponsor, and follow the suggestions TMM gives them so they may have a new life.

In the early 2000s, Edward Coleman was consumed with the dark life in Skid Row. He lived on the streets for over seven years, in and out of the missions in Downtown Los Angeles. He could never stay in or finish any program that offered him help.

Edward first came to The Midnight Mission because he was hungry. He kept coming back because TMM had the best food in Skid Row, and he could safely sleep in the courtyard at night. While walking one day, he saw an alumnus of TMM who encouraged him to take advantage of programs TMM offered. Edward was at a point of desperation and was willing to enter The Midnight Mission’s Healthy Living Program.

Part of the Healthy Living Program was to attend 12-step recovery meetings. Edward says these meetings were a turning point for him. For the first time, he wanted to finish a program. He wanted to have a different life. The Midnight Mission provided Edward with life skills and new opportunities. One of his fondest memories was attending his first basketball game. He was selected to go to a LA Clippers game and got to sit 20 feet from the game floor.

Edward was given a job at The Midnight Mission that changed the course of his life. He was assigned as the assistant to TMM Managing Director Clancy Ismislund. When he put on a shirt and tie for his new position, he knew he wanted to become a professional. He would answer phones and read computer books in his spare time.

Edward learned a lot from TMM, but he experienced a relapse when he left. The life skills he was taught at TMM came back to him, and he found sobriety again. He would encourage anyone trying to get sober to hold on and not pick up the first drink.

Edward moved back to Lancaster and pursued his dream of becoming a professional. His family supported his plan, even getting him an office with a desk. In 2016, he enrolled at Antelope Valley College for a degree in network administration. He is currently back in school to get his business administration degree. Edward carries a 3.0 GPA, is on the dean’s list, and was recently awarded a scholarship from Vallarta Supermarkets and the Gonzalez Family Foundation Schlolarship Endowment. When he completes two more semesters, he will enroll at UC Berkely. Edward aspires to have educational degrees to show future employers he is a changed man. Edward encourages others to continue to learn because it will pave the way for the future.

Edward credits the dramatic change in his life to The Midnight Mission. TMM showed him that he didn’t have to be the stereotype; he did not have to remain homeless and addicted to drugs on Skid Row. TMM showed Edward how to access the potential he always had, and today he is living proof that lives can be transformed when someone takes the time to believe in another. He wants anyone who comes into TMM to stay until the miracle happens for them.

 

Logan Hobson had hit bottom for the fifteenth time when he walked through the doors of The Midnight Mission. He was 58 years old, and Skid Row was his last hope.

It was a far cry from where he had been. Logan had been a sportswriter in New York. While in Las Vegas, he invented the Compubox, a computer program capable of tracking every punch in a boxing match. For nearly 20 years, Logan worked with HBO Sports and ESPN on their boxing telecasts. He was also a sportswriter with United Press International, New York, for seven years. He had arrived, but Logan decided to sell the business for new challenges.

He didn’t know the most significant challenge he would face would be to get and stay sober. He was in 20 detoxes, treatment centers, and sober living houses for eight years until even they would not take him in any longer. He had a mentor who let him sleep on his couch and told him that he would take him to The Midnight Mission at 6 am the following morning. Logan recalls thinking his mentor treated his dog better than he was treating him. Logan had no idea this man was taking him to a place that would save his life. The man told him it was time for him to pick up the tab for all his malarkey. He guaranteed him if he stayed at The Midnight Mission, he would finally own his life. He told him to see the old man, Clancy.

After being at TMM for a couple of weeks, Logan made an appointment to meet with Clancy. As Logan sat across from him, he told Clancy he didn’t know if he wanted to be sober. Clancy told him he was honored to have a no-good bum with them at TMM, then Clancy smiled at him and told him he knew exactly how he felt. For the first time, someone understood. Logan realized what Clancy said was true. He was a bum, and he needed help.

Clancy hired Logan as his assistant. Clancy would tell him to have his mail, emails, donut, and coffee ready in the morning. Logan knew something was changing in him because having Clancy’s things ready was more important than how he felt. Feelings had driven him, and now he was motivated by service.

Logan learned the most from watching Clancy. After Clancy finished reading the USA Today at lunchtime, he would tell Logan to take the paper to the parking garage attendant because he could use something to read. Clancy noticed the people that others did not see. He had a way of connecting to people, stopping in the hall to ask how people were doing.

Every year, Clancy did a mailing for The Midnight Mission. Logan recalls he would sit with the guys to stuff envelopes. He would tell jokes and stories to make the day more fun. Clancy wanted to be hands-on because these were his people.

Clancy wasn’t big about talking about God, but he would show you what God is about through his care for others. Logan listened to how he spoke to his sponsees in the 12 step recovery program. He had 150 sponsees and knew what was going on in each of their lives. Logan became one of those people whom Clancy knew inside and out. Clancy could unscramble the alcoholic brain and simplify things. He had an uncanny way of calming people down. He told them when you don’t know what to do; kindness is your default setting.

Clancy drilled it into Logan’s head to keep recovery first. You will lose everything you put before recovery. Logan believes it was divine intervention that brought him to The Midnight Mission and into the lap of the person who had an understanding of alcoholism like no other. He believes no one else could have gotten through to him.

Before the pandemic, Logan, a comedian, was performing regularly at the Comedy Store. He was also hosting TMM’s Laughter With a Mission Open Mic and bringing guest comedians to perform for our guests. For the last five years, he has been playing the Easter Bunny at TMM’s Easter celebration.

Since graduating from our program, Logan continues to lend a hand-up to those who are recovering from addiction and homelessness. Today, he works as a property manager and as a manager of a sober living house. Logan has a life he never dreamed would be possible. He owes it all to Clancy, The Midnight Mission, and his recovery support group.

Tee Tee Ware (also known as simply Tee) is an energetic, strong-willed extrovert from the state of Washington. This wasn’t always the case for Tee. In June 2017, he found himself coming through the doors of The Midnight Mission in a losing battle with drug and alcohol addiction.

Tee rose from his bottom through a willingness to work a recovery program. He took advantage of every resource TMM had to offer. He attended 12 step meetings and worked closely with his advocate. Through his vigorous action, Tee found a new outlook on life and peace from within.

He found purpose in helping others through various service projects, and he kept every commitment he made. While at TMM, he tried to be a positive example to other men coming through the program. Tee knew how hard it was to be away from family and having to follow the rules, so he used his experience, strength, and hope to encourage others.

Today, Tee is surrounded by those who are cheering for each step he takes forward. He has built a community around him that gives him support and direction. Tee is a member of the Skid Row Running Club, a runner’s club that uses the power of running to improve the lives of those who are at risk for homelessness and addiction. Tee’s running is another way to offer hope to struggling men and women.

Tee has found permanent employment at The Midnight Mission. He brings personal empathy to our homeless neighbors who come to our door for help. Tee’s positivity is a testimony today; no matter how hard things are, if you see it through, results will come.

James Farr first came to The Midnight Mission for help in 1996, but he did not apply the lessons he learned until he went through the program for the second time in 2000. For the last 20 years, James has faithfully served The Midnight Mission.

Staying at The Midnight Mission was not James’ original plan. He worked in the kitchen as part of TMM’s work therapy program. He had applied for Section 8 housing, and he found an apartment. He asked if he could stay on at TMM until he found another job. James never found another job. In his words, “The Midnight Mission saved my life, and it is where I give back to others.” James believes it is important to be where he is supposed to be, and it is evident TMM is where he is needed. He only misses work if he is sick, and then someone has to tell him to go home. His co-workers know he is responsible and dependable.

James loves to meet the volunteers who come to help in The Midnight Mission’s kitchen. His enthusiasm for what he does spills over into the people he meets. He has many stories of people who have come in over the years.

One little boy started to volunteer at The Midnight Mission when he was nine years old. He came with his family; then, the family brought their church to volunteer. James watched him grow up over the years he volunteered with TMM. He grew so close to the family; they invited him to celebrate Christmas at their house. Another volunteer would return month after month, showing James a picture he had taken of the two of them, telling James he was his best friend.

James had an incredible mentor at The Midnight Mission. Richard Ramirez was the executive chef when he first came to the program in 1996, and he was there when he came back. They worked together for over 13 years. Richard encouraged James to go to LA Trade Tech culinary school. The program took two years, and it required James to work from 12 am until 6 am then go to school. He would catch a bus to and from school and work, sometimes getting his sleep between stops. In the end, James finished and is a certified chef.

Richard urged James to get a driver’s license. When Richard was sick and near the end of his life, he told James he would leave his car to James. The relationship they had working together was full of love and support.

In addition to having great relationships with staff and volunteers, James has excellent ties with donors. SoCalGas is a faithful donor who also works hands-on at The Midnight Mission. James developed a trusting relationship with one of the engineers who would volunteer in the kitchen. He would compliment James, telling him he ran the kitchen beautifully. When it came time for the Smokey Robinson golf tournament, the engineer invited James to play on his team. One of the executives who was playing with them won five of the prizes awarded that day. He gave all of the prizes away except one, a Soul Train Cruise. He said he was keeping it for himself. When the executive returned to The Midnight Mission for the Golden Heart Gala, he asked to see James. When James came to work, he was curious why they were all standing in a circle. The executive said it was put on his heart to give James the trip. James was so surprised. It was the best vacation, one he could not have planned for himself. He saw many artists perform on the seven-day cruise and even heard Smokey Robinson when they went to the port in Puerto Rico.

The life James leads is one of service to others. His eagerness to get to know others grants immeasurable rewards. He has stayed connected to The Midnight Mission and those who come through the doors to work, volunteer, or get their own lives back on track. James is a shining example of what can happen when you put your trust in God and dedicate your life to helping others. He found all of his needs are met, and he lives a life that is usefully whole. James encourages others to stay focused, stay connected, and don’t let circumstances in life knock you off your feet.

Paul A. Castillo entered The Midnight Mission on June 16, 2019. At that time, he was trying to find a job while living on the street and struggling with a drinking problem. Finding himself in a state of desperation, he knew he could get help to overcome his addiction and homelessness at The Midnight Mission.

Paul was excited to participate in TMM’s programs to get on a pathway to self-sufficiency. When he faces difficulties today, his heart reminds him that he came here to get help. He doesn’t want to end up back in the streets. He stays motivated by watching others. He sees how people needlessly suffer when they don’t utilize the tools provided to them in the program. Paul is dedicated to staying at The Midnight Mission, so he may use his experience to help others. Paul realized TMM’s program was working for him when he stopped agonizing about minor things and began to see criticism as constructive suggestions for his improvement instead of judgment.

Paul is accommodating, hard-working, and reliable. While at The Midnight Mission, he was given the opportunity to work and to polish up his resume. Through working at TMM, he has learned how to handle responsibility, how to work with others, and how not to let his frustrations get the best of him. He has excelled in his work therapy position in TMM’s Transportation Department with his excellent work ethic and positive attitude. He is thankful for the opportunities he has been given and admires his supervisor Darryl because he knows he can go to Darryl with any challenges he may face.

Paul is saving the money he earns and is looking forward to obtaining housing and moving on to the next steps in his recovery. He is continuing to do the next right thing to create a better life for himself. He would like to tell anyone new to the program to have a plan and not just sit around. Paul says time will fly, and you should take advantage of all of the opportunities that TMM offers.

Floyd Davis started with the cards stacked against him. At an early age, he was exposed to drugs, alcohol, and violent abuse. Davis was born and raised in New Orleans in a household with a loving mother, but an abusive father. At the age of six, his father got upset and pulled a gun on him. His mom stepped in between Floyd and the gun, and his dad fired a shot, which narrowly missed his mother’s head. Davis saw it all. He never wanted to be like his dad but later found himself falling into the same patterns with his own son by drinking and being abusive. Then one day, as he was pulling out a stick to whip his son, he broke down and said: “I don’t want to be like this,” he then grabbed his son and hugged him, “I’m not going to be like that” he told himself.

As much as he tried, Davis could not stop abusing drugs and alcohol. The Impression his dad had on his life was too strong to ignore. Davis believed that he would never escape a life of drugs, alcohol, and abuse. Because of that, he felt like there was never going to be closure in his life. Although he tried to live on the straight and narrow, he soon found himself in Skid Row, where he was using daily. But that fire always burned within him to become a better man. Davis, who describes himself as a “go-getter and a man who wanted to change his life,” brought himself to The Midnight Mission (TMM) in July of 2018 looking for a new start.

Davis had a lot of built-up anger festering inside of him. The first few months at The Midnight were hard and he was rebellious and acted out. A fellow Skid Row friend didn’t think The Midnight Mission was for Davis. She tried to convince him to go back to the streets and continue using drugs and alcohol. It would have been the easy thing to do. But despite how he was acting out, the desire to be a better man never left Davis’ thoughts. He told his friend he was going to stay at The Midnight Mission and continue to work on himself.

There were many times when Davis wanted to quit and leave, but a picture of a bearded man who asked him for a dollar reminded him of what he didn’t want to be. He thought to himself, “I remembered a man I had seen, that had asked me for a dollar on the street, and something came clear to me that day. If you don’t stop doing what you are doing, you’re going to be just like that man, nothing. They’re just going to put dirt over you, and that’s it. And I said I never want to be like that man. I think seeing that man is what keeps me focused. I think God showed me that man for a reason.”

Davis worked hard and has been able to find success at The Midnight Mission. He passed the resume class with flying colors. Since then, he has found a job as a dishwasher and has helped eight other TMM participants gain employment. He takes great pride in being of service to others. He says his job and his boss, who gave him a chance, keep him going. In fact, his boss would like Davis to someday go to culinary school. Davis has also joined the 1201 Alumni Association after successfully completing the program. The week of Thanksgiving, Davis moved into his first new apartment.

As Davis leaves The Midnight Mission and embarks upon his new journey, he hopes to be remembered as a decent person. “I want to make a change. I may not have much, but I want to make a change.” Davis knows it won’t be easy and some days will be harder than others. But, as Davis likes to say, “good is always going to outdo the evil. Evil can not win!”

Albert Rivas came to The Midnight Mission in 2019, looking for a new start. He entered the Healthy Living Program, which is designed to help people learn how to live a life free from drugs and alcohol and become contributing members of society. Albert was motivated, determined, and optimistic about what the future might hold.

At The Midnight Mission, Albert found a foundation for his new life through our 12-step philosophy. He acknowledges part of getting back on his feet was accepting the mental health and housing help TMM offered. Albert took suggestions about how to do the next right thing and learned to take responsibility for his past and present actions.

During his first few months at TMM, Albert found it hard to adjust to others’ behaviors and personalities. A verbal disagreement discouraged Albert, and he wanted to leave. But, because he was on a new footing, his desire to change and live a better life exceeded his need to be right. He experienced spiritual growth as he placed principles before personalities and realized he only had the power to change himself.

In his first few months of being at TMM, he realized the program was working for him. He says he knows having people who were empathetic to his needs helped him be more patient in the relationships that he is now building. Coming from a broken home made him realize just how essential communication is. With patience and good communication, he has become a better father and is now a positive influence in his children’s lives. Albert thanks the staff of TMM for inspiring him and setting an example of the type of person he strives to be. Albert would especially like to thank Matt for his support and understanding, Donald for being patient, encouraging and helping him with problem-solving advice, and Ebony for being a good listener and advocate.

Albert is an active member of a 12-step fellowship, attending regular meetings and has even been approved by our Program Director to start his own 12-step recovery group here at TMM. He uses his life experiences to help others find freedom from addiction. He values his relationships with other people, and he likes to treat people the way he wants to be treated.

Albert plans to join TMMs 1201 Alumni Club to continue to give back and share with others how to utilize the tools he acquired through the 12 steps. He walked through the doors of TMM with only the clothes on his back and received not only food and shelter, but a new way of life. He knew he was in the right place. Albert now has a love for The Midnight Mission that no one can take from him. If there is anyone who is on the fence about coming into The Healthy Life Program, Albert has a word of advice: “Don’t give up. You will hit roadblocks. However, if you work hard, you can move forward from those roadblocks. Make sure you put in the work.”