In Los Angeles, where the glittering lights of Hollywood can often cast a shadow on the plight of its less fortunate residents, one man has made it his life's mission to bring hope, compassion, and tangible solutions to those battling homelessness. That man is Andy Bales, the esteemed CEO of The Union Rescue Mission. As he embarks on a well-deserved retirement, it is impossible to ignore his profound impact on countless lives and the monumental strides he has made in tackling the complex issue of homelessness.

What sets Andy apart from other leaders in the philanthropic world is his unwavering commitment to both humanity and organizational effectiveness. Through his leadership, he has shown that caring for people and running a large nonprofit organization can go hand-in-hand. Andy's infectious spirit of empathy and genuine concern for every individual he encounters has touched the lives of his staff and volunteers and created a ripple effect of compassionate action. 

In 2008, as a newcomer to Los Angeles, I was fortunate enough to witness Andy's incredible work up close. His dedication to bridging the gap between the wealthy donors who fund The Union Rescue Mission and the homeless individuals desperately seeking shelter has been inspiring. Andy's ability to treat everyone with the same level of respect and compassion, regardless of their socio-economic status, is a testament to his character and the example he sets for all of us. I worked alongside him for three years, and his dedication to helping the less fortunate is inspiring.

Andy Bales is the real deal, a compassionate soul who genuinely cares about all kinds of people. His heart for those experiencing homelessness is evident in everything he does. I had the opportunity to witness this firsthand when I joined him in sleeping out on Skid Row, one of the most challenging environments in the United States. Andy's willingness to immerse himself in the realities the homeless population faces demonstrated his commitment to understanding their struggles and offering support. The Union Rescue Mission, under his leadership, has become a beacon of hope, a safe haven for those in need, and a driving force for change within the community.

One of the most striking aspects of Andy's leadership is his willingness to sacrifice. As a CEO, he could have easily chosen a more comfortable path, but his commitment to the mission of helping people experiencing homelessness is unwavering. I watched him take a pay cut to ensure vital services continued operating, even in the face of financial challenges. This selfless act exemplifies his dedication to the cause, placing the well-being of those he serves above personal gain. He has shown us that compassion knows no bounds and that a single person can make a remarkable difference in the lives of so many.

I have watched him agonize over funds, never wanting to see any individual go without the necessary support. His tireless efforts to secure resources and partnerships are a testament to his commitment to making a meaningful impact.

Andy Bales' work at Union Rescue Mission is not merely a job but a calling. He has dedicated his life to serving the homeless population, and his legacy is one of compassion, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment. He has touched countless lives, providing shelter, food, hope, and a sense of belonging to those who need it most.

In a world filled with leaders, Andy Bales stands out as a shining example to me of someone who selflessly dedicates himself to the well-being of others. His actions speak louder than words, and his tireless efforts to combat homelessness are nothing short of heroic. Andy is a reminder that one person can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need. We can all learn from his compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to transforming lives.

Andy Bales is not just a CEO; he is a beacon of hope for people experiencing homelessness and an inspiration to us all.

I spent some time today going through pictures and memories from 2008-2011 when we worked together, and there are so many cool things, like bringing snow to Skid Row or shooting photos with Jeremy Cowart for Help-Portrait. It was a wild time when I first moved to LA, and adventuring with Andy made it incredible. 

Thank you, Andy.