One word resonates deeply when you listen to Brian’s story: stability. This thread weaves through his childhood dreams, professional endeavors, and current challenges. It is also the very thing that remains out of reach for too many justice-impacted individuals striving to rebuild their lives.
A Childhood of Movement
Brian’s story begins thousands of miles away. Born in a U.S. Army hospital in Seoul, Korea, during the 1970s, he spent his early years overseas before moving to Virginia and later settling in Philadelphia. His childhood was marked by constant transition, including time spent in foster care during his teenage years. These early experiences forged a resilience in Brian that would guide him into adulthood. He became fluent in Korean, attended Drexel University, and built a career over two decades in the hospitality industry, progressing from front desk clerk to general manager, where he oversaw operations and managed entire teams.
In 2022, Brian ventured into entrepreneurship, launching a dog care business in Ohio, and also worked as a project administrator in the nonprofit sector. However, life took a dramatic turn, leading him to face personal challenges and become justice-impacted. “It was a difficult experience,” Brian reflects. “But I’ve taken accountability. I’ve learned from it. And now I’m focused on moving forward.”
Returning Home: The Barrier of Affordability and Background
In November 2024, Brian found himself released to the Salvation Army Harbor Light facility in Cleveland. The environment was structured and strict, governed by rigid rules and controlled movement. “It can be frustrating,” he admits, “But it’s also given me structure and the chance to rebuild, reflect, and focus on what lies ahead.” While this provided him with breathing space, it lacked the independence that comes from having a place to call his own.
Transitional employment with the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) in Cleveland has offered Brian the structure and stability he needs at this pivotal moment. “The next step for me is to secure a permanent position that allows for affordable and sustainable housing,” he says. “Right now, the biggest challenge is that housing costs are simply out of reach for me,” he explains. “Even while working and moving forward, it’s been hard to find a place that’s affordable.”
For Brian, housing affordability is a primary barrier. However, many of his peers face additional hurdles leading to denials and closed doors based solely on being justice-impacted or justice-involved. Together, these challenges present steep odds for those eager to move forward. Despite pursuing skills training, securing employment, and remaining focused on personal growth, the weight of societal stigma and high housing costs combine to keep stability frustratingly out of reach.
A Dream Shared By Many
Access to fair chance housing represents more than shelter, especially to justice-impacted individuals. It is the foundation for employment, family reunification, and community engagement. Without it, even the most determined individuals struggle to advance.
“Being justice-impacted doesn’t erase the progress we’re making. Many of us are diligently working to rebuild our lives, and we need housing as the foundation for our success. I urge decision-makers to give us a fair chance. We’ll prove ourselves.”
Brian’s story proves what is possible when determination meets opportunity. Yet, it also reminds us of the ongoing efforts required to ensure that justice-impacted individuals have access to fair housing opportunities. At the core of everything lies a fundamental dream that resonates with many: the desire for a safe home, a stable life, and the opportunity to move forward.
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