Voices of Our Story
Inspiring Inclusion and Common Humanity
Promoting Compassionate Action
Shifting Perceptions
AUDIO STORY SHOWCASE
Listen to the stories from homeless people, people serving the homeless community, officials charged with finding solutions to homelessness, and concerned citizens of Nevada County, California. Every week we add more stories, and we believe that listening may shift some perceptions and inspire you to take compassionate action.
A Public Servant With Heart and Soul
John Foster, Former Grass Valley Police Chief, and running for Sheriff in 2018, has serving the community in his DNA, even though when he was young, he was more interested in being a secret agent. He has made a wonderful impact on the youth in Grass Valley, and in making Grass Valley a safe place to live. He has some really wonderful stories!
Finding Purpose, Again . . . Thanks To the Care of Strangers
William Wallace is a "Life Advocate". William had lost his sense of purpose and self worth. He shares his story of trying to end his life and the outreach that saved him.
Seeking Solitude, But Never Alone - One Woman's Story
Co-founder of Hospitality House Community Shelter, Joanna Robinson has had the privilege to hear many stories of the shelter's residents. Here she recounts the story of a 69 year old woman whose strength and vulnerability will open our hearts and minds.
.Building Dignity...Building Bridges to Services
Can you imagine the physical and mental realities of living on the streets? Brendan Phillips, musician and social worker, tells us why we're losing the battle against homelessness and how the answer lies in making housing a human right. Addressing homelessness is a complex issue. Advocacy goes far beyond offering compassion and empathy. Brendan Phillips, son of Co-Founder of Utah's place (Utah Phillips), works in our community at the crossroads of homelessness, mental health, and criminal justice.
A Sensitive Man Living in the Woods
Jesse is a tree climber, musician, and a man living without a roof. He is a sensitive man who's been homeless for six years. He shares his authentic story of the realities of living in the woods and in Part 2, Jesse shares his passion for wanting to work with Sierra Roots and build the micro housing community.
You Can See the Homeless People Everywhere
Singer/Songwriter Terry Worden shares the experience of when he showed up to work at the overnight cold weather shelter for the homeless folks in Nevada City, California, and was inspired by the way the community, led by Sierra Roots volunteers, served. He went home and wrote a song, "You Can See the People."
Giving From the Heart for Community
"Night of Giving" is a wildly successful fundraiser for Hospitality House, the Nevada County homeless shelter. Learn from it's producer, Mikail Graham, how he created this amazing, long-running event and has managed to raise more money every year of its twelve year history.
The Strongest Human-Animal Bond Belongs to a Homeless Person and Their Pet
Imagine a family member who is with you 24/7, who provides not only friendship, but security, love and loyalty. Pets of homeless people act as a lifeline to hope and even life itself. Patti Galle, Founder of Nevada County Pets of the Homleless, talks about how we care for a homeless person by caring for their pets.
Encouraging Love for Homeless People
A man living "Home-Free", a citizen without a home, shares his story, experiences and his vision for the future. Robert Hilligas, an articulate homeless man, explains that the homeless people are no different than anyone else. He is committed to finding solutions for the entire community.
The Support of the Homeless Community
Reinette Senum is a mover and a shaker in the Nevada City Council, and is ready to drill down on the real issue of homelessness. She has been a long time advocate and supporter for homeless people having a roof over their heads AND a life purpose. A City official charged with finding solutions to homelessness and a "Community Curator", Reinette shares her experience observing people on Commercial Street in Nevada City, and you may be surprised with what she saw.
Why Homeless People Leave So Much Trash
Lisa Cowden is a resident of Nevada County who has homeless people living on her property during the warm months. She is quite concerned about the destruction of her property, and at the same time she understands their plight.
