Lets Help Out Our Friend

Sometimes life throws curveballs that knock even the strongest people off their feet. That's exactly what happened to our friend Richard Parison Jr., and today he needs our help.

Richard has over 25 years of experience in theaters across the country. From Philadelphia to Virginia to Arizona, he has contributed to productions that have had a positive impact on communities and individuals.

Last summer, a moment of poor judgment while not sober led to a minor legal incident. While the charges were ultimately dismissed, the consequences rippled through every aspect of his world. Navigating these repercussions while serving in a public position proved devastating. He lost his job. Suddenly, he found himself starting over at 55.

But here's what makes Richard a good guy: instead of wallowing, he chose growth. He enrolled in a Master's program for Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Grand Canyon University, determined to transform his personal struggles into a way to help others in recovery. He has been attending classes and has obtained his Arizona Peer Support Specialist certification for recovery lived experience, along with his Arizona Group Facilitation certification, and substitute teaching credentials for the upcoming school year.

The problem? The gap between dreams and reality has become challenging. Over the past 12 months without steady income, Richard has depleted his entire savings and retirement funds to make ends meet. He's facing mounting credit card debt while spending hours a week on job applications, interviews, and networking, and driving for Uber and Lyft during his transition period, all while trying to maintain stability and pursue an education and career change.

Anyone who knows Richard understands how difficult it must be for someone who has built a career to find himself in this position. This is a man who has spent his career creating experiences that help lift people up, mentoring young artists, and bringing culture and meaning to communities.

Richard has several promising job prospects in the pipeline, from peer support positions to teaching opportunities. The substitute teaching certification means steady work is coming when Phoenix schools start their new year. He just needs to bridge these next few months with basic living expenses, including rent, gas, and food.

The goal isn't large—just enough to maintain stability during Richard's transition into his next chapter. While he may not repay this kindness dollar for dollar, he'll surely pay it forward tenfold through his work with people in recovery and his future students.

Every contribution, no matter how small, helps someone who has spent his life lifting others avoid losing his footing completely. Richard's story isn't over; it's simply at a challenging turning point before his next chapter begins.

Let's help our friend get back on his feet. He's poised to embark on the next meaningful chapter of his life.