Ryan, 31, was captain of his high school soccer team who graduated from community college with an associate degree in psychology then played soccer at university and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in communications with a focus on advertising.
But he started using drugs, drinking, and smoking heavily in the rave party scene, was unable to keep a job, and become homeless.
Through LA:Rise, he received subsidized employment and on-the-job training through the Center for Living and Learning, and El Projyecto WorkSource Center, and was offered a job.
“I love being on the other side of the desk providing services to individuals that remind me of myself needing help during my days of active addiction and homelessness,” he said.