James, is an accomplished community speaker and author of two books. James uses his personal story of recovery to inspire communities of color in high-risk situations facing oppression.
James found Aeon after experiencing homelessness himself. Over the years, he has grown to be a mentor, recovery coach and spiritual leader who helps his clients by interrupting negative experiences with support and understanding. James spreads his message of vulnerability and transformation by facilitating support groups, speaking at correctional facilities and holding trainings for Aeon residents. James has been able to give back to his community because of the stability of his Aeon home.
James is one of five recipients of the 2023 Dorothy Richardson Resident Leadership Award, an honor that recognizes five leaders from around the country for their outstanding contributions to their communities.
“Aeon is a safe place you can go to for different reasons. Right now, I’m going through kidney failure. So, I do dialysis at home. To be able to do that at home rather than going out, that meant everything to me.” — James
