- 94
- 84 802
Terence Lester, Ph.D.
Приєднався 8 тра 2009
Known for his community work, advocacy campaigns, and innovative approaches to addressing homelessness and poverty, Dr. Terence Lester is the Founder and Executive Director of Love Beyond Walls. He is also the Director of Public Policy and Social Change and Professor at Simmons College of Kentucky.
He has written extensively on homelessness, poverty, and racial justice, with notable works including “I See You,” “When We Stand,” and “All God’s Children.” He also co-authored the children’s book “Zion Learns to See.” His forthcoming book, “From Dropout to Doctorate,” is expected in 2025.
Dr. Lester has delivered numerous lectures and speeches across the country and writes a newsletter titled “From Streets to Scholarship.” With a PhD in Public Policy and Social Change, he is driven by the mission “To create a world where no one is invisible.” His dedication to activism and community work has earned him numerous awards, and he is excited to launch the Imagine Dignity Podcast.
He has written extensively on homelessness, poverty, and racial justice, with notable works including “I See You,” “When We Stand,” and “All God’s Children.” He also co-authored the children’s book “Zion Learns to See.” His forthcoming book, “From Dropout to Doctorate,” is expected in 2025.
Dr. Lester has delivered numerous lectures and speeches across the country and writes a newsletter titled “From Streets to Scholarship.” With a PhD in Public Policy and Social Change, he is driven by the mission “To create a world where no one is invisible.” His dedication to activism and community work has earned him numerous awards, and he is excited to launch the Imagine Dignity Podcast.
Homelessness and Motel Discrimination | How Stigma Hurts People in Need
In Episode 9 of the #ImagineDignityPodcast, I sat down with Latrice, a woman living out of her car while dealing with a serious medical condition. While trying to help her find a safe place to stay, we ran into something that broke my heart-discrimination. At a motel in Forest Park, GA, even though Latrice had ID and the funds to pay, she was still denied service just because she’s unhoused.
Thankfully, we were able to find her a spot at an extended stay, but it was tough watching the added stress and hurdles she had to go through. Latrice’s story really shows how much harder things can be for people experiencing homelessness, and it’s a reminder of why we need more compassion and understanding.
Latrice's Story
ua-cam.com/video/3nSuBsGcU-4/v-deo.html
Check out my work
www.terencelester.com
Check out Love Beyond Walls
www.lovebeyondwalls.org
Listen to the Imagine Dignity Podcast
ua-cam.com/play/PLXchXLi7ejLsJwgRgdmmf8M2grwI5rrq4.html
Follow imterencelester
Spotify Podcast: podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/imaginedignitypodcast
Follow @lovebeyondwalls
Follow lovebeyondwalls
Thankfully, we were able to find her a spot at an extended stay, but it was tough watching the added stress and hurdles she had to go through. Latrice’s story really shows how much harder things can be for people experiencing homelessness, and it’s a reminder of why we need more compassion and understanding.
Latrice's Story
ua-cam.com/video/3nSuBsGcU-4/v-deo.html
Check out my work
www.terencelester.com
Check out Love Beyond Walls
www.lovebeyondwalls.org
Listen to the Imagine Dignity Podcast
ua-cam.com/play/PLXchXLi7ejLsJwgRgdmmf8M2grwI5rrq4.html
Follow imterencelester
Spotify Podcast: podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/imaginedignitypodcast
Follow @lovebeyondwalls
Follow lovebeyondwalls
Переглядів: 70
Відео
Homelessness and Isolation | Melvin’s Story of Disability and Faith | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 10
Переглядів 3437 годин тому
In Episode 10 of the Imagine Dignity Podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Melvin, a man whose story deeply touched me. Melvin lives with a disability and is currently experiencing homelessness. During our conversation, he shared how he once served as a caregiver for others but now finds himself in a position where he relies on the care and kindness of strangers. He spoke about mome...
Living Out of a Car with a Medical Condition | Latrice’s Story | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 9
Переглядів 3 тис.21 годину тому
In Episode 9 of the Imagine Dignity Podcast, I had the privilege of meeting Latrice, a resilient woman living out of her car while managing a serious heart condition. I first encountered her in a historic Atlanta park, resting in her car. Concerned for her safety, I gently approached to check in, knowing how vulnerable life can be for women experiencing homelessness. Latrice shared with me the ...
Practical Ways to Help During Homelessness Awareness Month | Supporting the Unhoused Community
Переглядів 45День тому
Practical Ways to Help During Homelessness Awareness Month | Supporting the Unhoused Community
What Happens When You Panhandle | Travis’s Story of holding a sign | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 8
Переглядів 19214 днів тому
What Happens When You Panhandle | Travis’s Story of holding a sign | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 8
Helping a Veteran Access Benefits | Update on Darrell and Our Growing Friendship
Переглядів 5714 днів тому
Helping a Veteran Access Benefits | Update on Darrell and Our Growing Friendship
How Losing a Loved One Can Lead to Homelessness | Melissa’s Story | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 7
Переглядів 34021 день тому
How Losing a Loved One Can Lead to Homelessness | Melissa’s Story | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 7
Homeless but Joyful | Smiley’s Journey of Hope and Resilience | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 6
Переглядів 30721 день тому
Homeless but Joyful | Smiley’s Journey of Hope and Resilience | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 6
From Caregiver to Unhoused | Sam’s Story of Grief and Survival | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 5
Переглядів 41128 днів тому
From Caregiver to Unhoused | Sam’s Story of Grief and Survival | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 5
What is a Podcast Museum? | Storytelling and Advocating for the Unhoused Community
Переглядів 6628 днів тому
What is a Podcast Museum? | Storytelling and Advocating for the Unhoused Community
It Takes Hope to Rise Above Poverty | Quinton’s Dream | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 4
Переглядів 590Місяць тому
It Takes Hope to Rise Above Poverty | Quinton’s Dream | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 4
The Link Between Foster Care and Adult Homelessness | Robert’s Story | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 3
Переглядів 1 тис.Місяць тому
The Link Between Foster Care and Adult Homelessness | Robert’s Story | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 3
The Untold Struggles of Women Experiencing Homelessness | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 2
Переглядів 5 тис.Місяць тому
The Untold Struggles of Women Experiencing Homelessness | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 2
The Unscripted Journey of Finding Podcast Guests | #ImagineDignityPodcast
Переглядів 44Місяць тому
The Unscripted Journey of Finding Podcast Guests | #ImagineDignityPodcast
Overcoming Homelessness is a Process | #ImagineDignityPodcast Update on Darrell’s Journey
Переглядів 99Місяць тому
Overcoming Homelessness is a Process | #ImagineDignityPodcast Update on Darrell’s Journey
How Public Policy Harms the Unhoused Community | Homesick Documentary
Переглядів 726Місяць тому
How Public Policy Harms the Unhoused Community | Homesick Documentary
Veterans Who Face Homelessness | Forgotten Heroes | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 1
Переглядів 325Місяць тому
Veterans Who Face Homelessness | Forgotten Heroes | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. 1
Choosing to Deal with Grief | Rediscovering Purpose Through a Podcast
Переглядів 31Місяць тому
Choosing to Deal with Grief | Rediscovering Purpose Through a Podcast
Homelessness in America: Stories from the Unhoused Community | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. Intro
Переглядів 170Місяць тому
Homelessness in America: Stories from the Unhoused Community | #ImagineDignityPodcast Ep. Intro
Hola hello beautiful world God Almighty bless all ❤️ thank you for shinning your bright light i'm 55 yrs young i was housless with mental and physical disabilities, and a single mother.i want to share with the world many many times i let people live with me no judgement just come stay with me get on your feet that is all the bible says Love me with all your heart and soul and Love one another!!! The Bible says carry each other's burdens if only we would really obey God and work together we would move mountains God Almighty bless all ❤️✨🌟❤️
Thank you for sharing your incredible story of kindness and compassion, and for reminding us about the power of community and love.
I met a 80 year old blk woman living in her car with her dog.. her battery had died.. she had been n the same spot 4 a week... I offered her $$ but she refused.. I had 2 do something...so I went 2 my storage unit and gave her my jackery so she could charge her phone.. and gave her 2 usb fans she could use.. we exchanged numbers... The next day I offered her 2 use my car insurance for a tow or jump..n she refused and used AAA... I wondered why she didn't call AAA before.. does she have dementia?? I texted and tried 2 chat but she never got back 2 me.. although I spoke 2 her briefly and she said the jackery was a blessing.. I think about her and hope she's okay... She told me her daughter put her out of her apartment.. and her daughter is a drug addict.. so sad.. 80 yrs old..😢
Good program, but there’s more to this story. She sounds very intelligent. Why she won’t go to school. Many jobs for displaced women. I’m an educated nurse, mba. There are many resources available and she can do better than living in her car for seven years. More to this story.
Thank you for watching and engaging with this story. While I appreciate your thoughts, I respectfully want to push back on some of thoughts made here. It’s important to remember that we are not the experts in someone else’s journey or challenges. Latrice is dealing with significant medical issues, including congestive heart failure. Earlier today, she shared with us that she had to drain four gallons of fluid-something that her condition forces her to manage constantly. Given her health struggles, suggesting options like going back to school or pursuing certain jobs might not align with her current reality. While resources exist, they are not always accessible or practical for everyone, especially when severe health conditions are involved. We remain committed to standing with Latrice and others like her during their most vulnerable moments, offering support and compassion as they navigate their circumstances. Thank you again for watching and for caring enough to engage in this conversation.
Wow, 7 years!! This place suxs!!! She has an awesome spirit!! I really hope that she can find housing! No way should she be living in her car!!! That was very nice of you!!
She has a beautiful spirit, and I'm grateful we could share her voice 🙏🏾 We will continue to walk with her.
Ssi or ssdi is not enough to pay high rent payments whether you are mental or not
@@tatanishagatewood2426 You’re absolutely right-SSI or SSDI often falls far short of covering high rent payments, leaving many individuals in incredibly difficult situations. I know you’re responding to another comment here, and I completely agree that this is an important point to highlight. This is especially concerning given the rising cost of housing and the lack of affordable options available. It’s a systemic issue that highlights the urgent need for more equitable housing policies and programs to ensure that everyone, regardless of their income or circumstances, has access to stable and safe housing. Thank you for shedding light on this important reality.
GOD BLESS YOU BROTHER 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾
@@carolyntaylor8769 🙏🏾🙏🏾 grateful to serve!
She's a grandmother, where are her children why she out there alone,praying for her I couldn't live with myself knowing my mother is on the streets she would be with me no matter the condition.
@@mrs.sweetea8074 Thank you for your comment and for sharing your heart. I completely understand what it means to caregive for a parent-it’s a deep responsibility and act of love. At the same time, I try to remain mindful and respectful of family dynamics, as we all have different relationships and circumstances within our biological families. My focus is to be present with people like Latrice and remind them that they are a part of the beloved community, where they are seen, valued, and not forgotten. Everyone’s journey is different, and sometimes the complexities of life can lead to situations that are hard to fully understand from the outside. Thank you for your prayers for her-they mean so much.
She and other Americans should register as illegal immigrants. Speak broken english and show no ID. Get your hotel room and $10,000 debit card. If I was homeless I would get the help offered to the illegals.
Using political talking points to address the story of someone like Latrice not only diminishes her humanity but also overlooks the very real and deeply personal struggles she faces. Reducing her life to a rhetorical argument fails to honor her experiences and the dignity she deserves as a person navigating tremendous challenges. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. powerfully said, “We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” He also reminded us of our shared interdependence when he said, “Before you finish eating breakfast in the morning, you’ve depended on more than half the world.” These truths challenge us to rise above division and see one another as part of the same “world house,” where every life is beloved by God and worthy of respect and compassion.
@imterencelester Well, getting shelter for 30 days isn't going to solve her long term issues. But, getting the same help that the illegals get would serve her good and give her a big step up. Nothing political about my comment (other than the funds cpme from the government).
You mean they kick them? 😢 Oh my.
Yes, when I worked on this project, it was one of the most heartbreaking experiences. That's why I shot this film for my dissertation 🙏🏾
God bless you brother for what you do, you will be bless.keep doing what you do doing.
Thank you so much for your kind words and blessings! I’m truly grateful for the encouragement, and I’ll continue striving and serving from the heart. God bless you as well 🙏🏾
Yes, go fund would be nice for her to get an apartment, but she has to be able to obtain it. She needs something that goes by her income.
Thank you for your support. It will go directly to her getting more rest today!
GOD BLESS THAT MAN AND HIS ❤️ ❤❤❤❤🙏🏿 🙏🏿 🙏🏿 💪🏿 💪🏿 💪🏿
Amen! Sam has a really big heart!
wow...and these illegal immigrants are housed for free !! cant she apple for low income disabilty housing..do a GoFundMe for her
I believe that all people are beloved and deserve dignity, regardless of their circumstances. My focus is always on serving those directly in front of me, ensuring they feel seen and supported. To clarify, we do not organize GoFundMe campaigns, but through our organization, we have actively worked to help people in tangible ways. Our mission is rooted in compassion and creating long-term solutions to systemic challenges that impact people experiencing homelessness. Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts.
The nastiest and meanest people get the best Karma, their is a Big Blessing coming to you Travis
This is so true! We are standing with our friend, Travis.
Im not being evil if she gets sddi she has money she could get an apartment and be on a list to get on to a senior place my QA uestion is does she have mental issues the hdg dhr is not able to help herself I'll m glad your helping her and om praying for her
Thank you for your comment and for keeping Latrice in your prayers. It’s important to remember that homelessness is a complex issue, and even with access to resources like SSDI, many people still face significant barriers to stable housing. For Latrice, living out of her car isn’t a choice-it’s the result of circumstances compounded by her medical condition and the difficulty of navigating systems that can be slow and overwhelming. Regarding mental health, it’s worth considering that intense conditions like homelessness can sometimes lead to or worsen mental health challenges. It’s not always about whether someone has mental health issues to begin with but how difficult circumstances can take a toll on anyone. Thank you again for your prayers and kind words. They mean so much as Latrice continues to navigate her journey. Compassion and understanding make a huge difference.
Thanks for doing the Podcasts that you do!
Thank you for being here and listening!
Theirs a Big Blessing on the way, for you to keep serving the less fortunate. God see everything you do even in silence.
@@pantherlove365 Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement. Your message truly means a lot. I believe that serving others, especially those who are often overlooked, is a calling, and I’m grateful to be able to do this work. God’s guidance and strength keep me going, and your reminder that He sees everything-even the quiet moments-is such a blessing. Thank you for your support and for being a part of this journey 🙏
True
@@dialup5583 💯
🙏🏾
Thank you for praying for our sister!
I love her dress
Social security helps people on disability get housing
Thank you for sharing this. Social Security can indeed be a lifeline for people with disabilities, offering crucial financial support for housing. However, even with these benefits, the struggle remains challenging for many. My sister Latrice, for example, has faced the frustration and pain of being waitlisted for housing, which only adds to the hardship. For those on disability, the wait for affordable housing can be long and uncertain, highlighting the need for more comprehensive support and accessible housing resources.
Amen 🙏🏾
🙏🏾🙏🏾
Amen 🙏🏾
🙏🏾🙏🏾
Thank you.
Thank you for watching!
Thank you for sharing his story!
@@erinmgiles His story deserves to be heard like anyone else's 🙏🏾
Amen bro! Don’t give up, you are an amazing example of living fully in the dash!
@@erinmgiles thank you my sister 🙏🏾
Greetings first time to your channel, Wonderful Thank You for sharing❤💯
@@lafaith111 thank you for visiting and watching! Grateful to serve 🙏🏾
@@imterencelester will continue to support your work, nothing but Greatness.
People don't realise how hard it is to actually get a job I am not homeless and my family gets by and I even struggle to find work
Realistically most employers now they want experience for one if you can’t write up and send in a resume and cover letter that’s a no go then they want high school diploma minimum and transportation to work then you do need an address as well you need to know your social security number you need a bank account to receive your paycheck you need a clean background check most places do drug tests so you see how that can be challenging
Finding employment while facing homelessness is indeed an uphill battle. Employers often require a consistent work history, a permanent address, access to transportation, and sometimes a bank account for direct deposits-elements that are difficult to secure when you’re unhoused. That’s why “Housing First” models are so impactful. By providing stable housing as a starting point, people have a stronger foundation to address these employment challenges, making it easier to gain stability and independence. Thanks for engaging in this conversation; it highlights the real barriers many face.
Bless her heart. I don't understand why her family doesn't help her. I suppose there's a lot I don't understand about the homeless. Two sides to every story.
@@s1234pro Thank you so much for watching the video and for your kind words about my sister Keisha. I understand how it might seem like family support could solve a lot of the challenges for people who are unhoused. But as you pointed out, there’s always more to the story. Not all families are close or have the resources or ability to help in the ways they might want to. And the truth is, even people who have homes sometimes find themselves distanced from family or in situations where community support is needed just as much. In my sister’s case, we’re doing everything we can to support her journey, but her story highlights that homelessness often requires broader community involvement and support. Thank you again for watching and for keeping an open heart toward understanding.
Man, it sucks that things like this actually happened. Nice that he's talking to him and listening to these stories that might have gone unheard, stay safe out there
Thank you for your thoughtful comment. It really does bring perspective to see and hear stories that often go unnoticed, and I’m grateful for the chance to listen and share them. Homelessness is a reality that impacts so many lives, and sometimes simply being present, listening, and affirming the dignity of someone can make a huge difference. Thank you for watching, and stay safe as well.
Government Governor ... Covid Did More Harm Than Good' ... God " Bless America ! Ms Homeless Covid Turn Into Encomic Economy Difficult IN Everything. Amen 🙏🙌
My dude said "marta" and i instantly understood why he's broke... get out of the democratic cities playa. Atl is not your spot.
It’s essential to remember that homelessness is a widespread issue affecting people across all communities, regardless of political affiliation. Many cities with conservative leadership have passed laws that criminalize aspects of homelessness, such as public camping bans, restrictions on sleeping in vehicles, and increased penalties for panhandling--making it harder to exist without an address. While often justified as efforts to “clean up” public spaces, these ordinances tend to overlook the root causes of homelessness. The term “broke” is also worth reconsidering in light of economic realities. For instance, the federal minimum wage has remained stagnant at $7.25 per hour since 2009, while the cost of living has continued to rise significantly. Even full-time workers often struggle to afford basic needs, let alone stable housing, especially in cities where rents are high. Labeling people as “broke” overlooks the structural challenges many face, including low wages, lack of affordable housing, and limited access to mental health and social services. Ultimately, homelessness isn’t a partisan issue; it’s a human one. People experiencing homelessness need empathy, effective policies, and genuine support from all of us.
I keep trying to explain this. You gotta have money to make money. If you don't have help getting started it is impossible. There needs to be more opportunities and places for people that actually want to change and just need that starting help.
@@bwalters9762 This is a great observation. I think people sometimes forget that everyone does not have support.
That's not true at all. I can come to your city today with $0 and no vehicle and I'll have a paid off car next month. Challenge me any time.
It's about the amount of effort you put in, not money.
I would like to know what got them in the position that they are in now? Did they lose their job, or was it a habit?
@@Beergut007Come to seattle and do it.
What a lovely lady she's so strong and her faith in God
Yes, my sister Keisha is real and deeply committed to her faith. Thank you for honoring her story by watching and sharing 🙏🏾
amazing work
Thank you for watching!
kesha made me cry
Her story is so impactful.
season 1 is amazing
Thanks bro 💯
family is who loves you the way you love them
Family is so much bigger. Yes, it is about true community!
this was such a real and humbling experience
Humbling
step by step the world will know the message and do their part
One step at a time!
congratulations !!!!!!
Thanks bro!
gods work
@@K.LINDOLIVE thank you fam 🙏🏾
keep up the amazing work
@@K.LINDOLIVE 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾
He looks healthy enough to get a job
Context is essential when discussing people you’ve never met. I’d encourage you to watch the full interview to understand the complexities involved. You don’t go from being unhoused to employed overnight; accessing a job without stable housing is a process with many barriers. When we are unaware of these challenges, it can cause us to lack empathy. Serving those who are unhoused from a place of love means respecting their dignity, acknowledging their right to belong in community, and standing in solidarity with them.
Amen
Amen
The Lord works through people hallelujah
@@jamawilliams1577 Amen 🙏🏾
🙏🏿👍
@@LoveLife-ou5xh 🙏🏾🙏🏾
Blessed = be less
@@michaelblevins7378 that is a good one 🙏🏾
@ Working = were a King
Awww cupcake 🧁🩷🙏🏾💯
@@Ms.T-s9s 🙏🏾🙏🏾
I was homeless for 7 years and the day I wanted something different and started WORKING towards it my life changed and I'm no longer homeless. No one is coming no one is going to help you but God gave you the power to do it yourself I have no sympathy for homeless your choosing that life
@@Covid-by7lo I respect your perspective and the journey you’ve experienced, but the tone comes across as dismissive of others’ struggles. Everyone’s path is unique, and often overcoming challenges involves not just hard work, but also the help and support of others. No one is truly self-made; we all rely on a network of people, experiences, and moments that shape our growth. The woman you refer to became unhoused after the sudden loss of her husband-a situation that highlights how unexpected life circumstances can disrupt stability. It’s concerning that we live in a world where, after overcoming similar obstacles, we can become indifferent to others’ suffering. I, too, have faced homelessness and worked hard to change my situation, ultimately earning a PhD. But I will never let go of sympathy and empathy for those still struggling because I know where I came from and what it took to rebuild my life. We are called to extend grace and understanding, remembering that each person’s journey is filled with unique trials.
Shouldve never kicked religion out of politics . Easy to let bumbs stay on the street but when you look at them as your brother or sister its a different story.
MLK reminded us that we live in a world house, a global village, and those who are unhoused are also our neighbors, and deserve dignity and respect 🙏🏾