Thirty Minutes Turns Into Three Hours

On Friday, I had the opportunity to sit down with Kevin McDonald of TROSA, an entrepreneurial residential program for people in substance abuse recovery.  In the beginning, Kevin had to convince customers to trust a brand-new moving company run by recovering addicts.  In recent weeks, I also have been dealing with questions about our model.  As it was said by one critic, "so, you want illiterate kids teaching elementary schoolers?"  Kevin and I share a strong belief in the clients we serve, and I was curious how he had dealt with those that doubted TROSA's approach.  While not surprising, Kevin's advice was reassuring.  The best way to silence critics is to create a superior product.  If the clients take pride in their work, the work will speak for itself.

What was supposed to be a thirty minute meeting stretched to almost three hours.  Starting a nonprofit is an intense process (Kevin often talked about his war mindset).  Not surprisingly, he wanted to know why I was doing this work.  His connection to the work is much more clear.  Kevin likes to talk about his time in the "Paris Hilton Hotel," also known as LA County Jail.  He was drinking and smoking at thirteen, moved to harder stuff in his teens, and was soon doing armed robberies to support his habit.  Kevin spent twelve years living and working at Delancey Street, a program similar to TROSA.  For obvious reasons, he never has to explain why he is so dedicated to his work.

In the end, Kevin was convinced that I'm dedicated to this work.  He seemed to think I was a good guy, though those that have met him know he used much more colorful language.  He even offered to write a letter of recommendation if it would be helpful in my dealings with any potential funders.  Overall, it was a great conversation with someone I respect greatly.

Thanks, as always, for reading.

Mark

Founder and President - Reach, Inc.