What begins as a simple gesture of helping one person can spark a movement that reshapes communities. Sean shares his unexpected journey from preparing for a career in law enforcement to founding a grassroots homeless shelter that grew into multiple agencies. Along the way, he reflects on misconceptions about homelessness, systemic barriers that keep people on the streets, and the urgent need for preventative approaches—whether addressing long-term housing, addiction, or even mass shootings. His story is a powerful reminder of how compassion, persistence, and unconventional thinking can open pathways to change.
About Our Guest: Sean began feeding people experiencing homelessness shortly after high school, and in 1997 his encounter with John McCormick, a homeless man in need of urgent care, marked the start of a lifelong commitment to advocacy. What began with offering housing to one person quickly grew, as hospitals started referring patients without stable housing to him, and almost overnight he found himself running the largest shelter in the county. Despite facing legal challenges from the city, Sean successfully defended the shelter’s right to operate, ensuring its continued role as a vital service provider. In addition to his work in homelessness, he founded the Mass Shooting Prevention Center Crisis Hotline, a confidential service designed to help individuals considering acts of violence access support before tragedy occurs. His work reflects a dedication to compassion, prevention, and practical action in addressing some of society’s most pressing challenges.
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The views expressed in this podcast are those of Tiyana J & guests and are not reflective of all members of the Humanitarian Changemakers Network.