PhD Visa Support Needed After Setback

My name is Mary Compson, and I’m writing to share the story of my dear friend, Terrance Harris—a remarkable man whose life’s work has been dedicated to helping others, and who now needs our help.

Just over a week ago, Terrance experienced a devastating robbery, losing more than $5,000 in cash. This was not only a frightening ordeal but also a critical setback, as he is just weeks away from moving to Edinburgh, Scotland to begin his PhD studies at the University of Edinburgh. His research will focus on trauma through the lens of psychology and sociology—work that is deeply personal and urgently needed in today’s world.

Terrance has poured nearly all his savings into Austin’s Second Chance, the nonprofit he founded in Virginia. This 501(c)(3) organization helps young men—especially those facing addiction, homelessness, and mental health struggles—rebuild their lives. Through OSHA workforce training, art therapy, storytelling, and mental health advocacy, Terrance has created a place of hope and transformation. His mission is inspired by his own lived experience and the loss of a dear friend to an accidental drug overdose.

Now, he needs our support to raise the funds necessary for his UK visa application and to replace what was stolen. This isn’t just about helping Terrance—it’s about ensuring that his work continues to change lives, both here at home and abroad.

If you believe in resilience, second chances, and the power of education to transform communities, I ask you to join me in supporting Terrance’s journey.

You can read more about the incident in the attached article and watch an interview where Terrance shares more about his charity and the impact it’s making.

Let’s help him turn this setback into a stepping stone.

— Mary Compson

The Robbery That Put My Dreams on Hold