Dedicating Their Lives To Creating A Change With Eric Davis and Mark Brisbane

The Independent Life

On part two of Tony’s conversation with Eric and Mark, he dives right into talking about systemic, policy-based changes and how we can really come up with solutions to affordable housing. They talk about humanization for both sides of the equation; noting how oftentimes property owners are demonized for their role due to a lack of understanding of what property owners may be going through, as people who is also working to operate a business. They emphasize the importance of the property managers’ role in finding a solution to address affordable and accessible housing. Eric shares that what makes him effective when it comes to executing his role and his job, is that he truly understands both sides: the people they serve and that of the property owners.

They also get into a discussion about things that Eric has seen on a individual level that he’s been able to work with people on; things that they’ve been able to gain that have allowed them to put themselves in a position where they have been able to get housed and be a part of the solution. Some of the things that are needed when working with individuals is coming from a place of non-judgment, a place of humility, having an attitude of gratitude; coming from a heartfelt place is a way that we can help individuals, to inspire them to go above and beyond what they think they’re capable of.

Collectively, they express that this issue is one that is bigger than any of us. Eric shares real life stories and situations to illuminate the type of situations that people are in, in hopes of shedding light and empathy towards those who are currently living in very challenging situations. Collaboration on this issue is key; working together on this situation helps to humanize the individuals we serve. Developing and cultivating a relationships with property owners is a real and effective piece of addressing the issue of affordable housing; they get to see firsthand the impact they can have on someone’s quality of life. They discuss the need to allocate more resources, more money, more people to ending homeless and focusing on the real solution, which is housing. It takes people who are willing to dedicate their life to creating a change.

Episode Resources:

• Becoming of Maximum Service To Others With Eric Davis and Mark Brisbane: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1rwHkkQ6kJSRzWWOkIzi17?si=Jp8wULVzTsiKnmjTlL3oUA
• St. Francis House: https://stfrancishousegnv.com/
• CIL Housing Program making a difference!: http://www.cilncf.org/meet-mark-brisbane/