INTERVIEW #1
Bill Ryan Mission Program Officer Young Street Mission
Bill Ryan is the longest serving staff member at the Yonge Street Mission, investing more then 30 years of his life to helping the homeless in the city of Toronto. A true leader, with a heart for the broken. Interview notes: I met with bill at his YSM office at 306 Garrard St E. My main goal was to gather good helpful content for my booklet series, and with over 30 years experience Bill had a lot to share. I was able to ask Bill specific questions on each of the topics discussed in the booklets and from there develop a good frame work as to what was most crucial information that needed to be included. Bill also gave me a closer look at a typical day in a homeless youths life, not only giving me a better picture of their routine but also why so many choose to not use the resources that are available and why trusting in adults is difficult for them.
Take Away • I was inspired to give more practical hands on information on each issue, which later translated to the “tips” pages in the Body booklet. • I got good insight on smart steps a homeless youth should take from the very beginning. This was featured in the Heart Booklet. • A contact to follow up with once my thesis is ready to present.