From Experiencing Homelessness to Becoming a Community Leader — Episode 087

A few months ago, we came across a post on LinkedIn that really
pulled at our heartstrings and demonstrated how resilient a
person can be when they have their mind set on a goal. The post
chronicled the journey of one individual who went from
experiencing homelessness to becoming the director of a park and
recreation agency and a leader in his community, and we knew we
wanted to connect with him to learn more about his story of
adversity, resilience and how parks and recreation saved his
life.


Today we are thrilled to be joined by Dr. Samose Mays, the
director of Bryan County Parks and Recreation in Georgia as well
as the Georgia Recreation and Park Association district two
commissioner. Dr. Mays is also a Certified Park and Recreation
Professional, an Aquatic Facility Operator, a Certified Youth
Sports Administrator, as well as a professor at Georgia Southern
University. On top of all that, he is leading efforts to increase
diverse representation within the park and recreation profession
through the Minority Recreational Leadership Academy. But, it
wasn’t an easy road for Dr. Mays to get to where he is today, and
we’re so grateful he joined us to tell us more about his journey.


Tune in to the full episode below to learn more about Dr. Mays’
journey and how he responded to adversity in order to pursue his
dream of a career in parks and recreation, as well as:


What challenges he overcame while pursuing his goal.

How the resources at his local library and rec center helped
him pursue his doctorate degree while he was experiencing
homelessness.

How his lived experiences have helped him to identify and
fill any potential gaps in the programming his agency provides.

How the Minority Recreational Leadership Academy is
increasing diverse representation in the profession.

What being a professor at the same university he dropped out
of twice means to him and what values he shares with his
students.

How his story can serve as a valuable tool to break down the
stigma associated with people experiencing homelessness, as well
as other challenges people may face, and more!