Look Who it Was Random video

Embrace your hopelessness to help others | Anne Wright | TEDxBirmingham

1,377 views · Published 6 September 2017 · 11:15 · Indexed 22 September 2026

Channel: TEDx Talks · 2017 · Nonprofits & Activism

Watch on YouTube

In this emotional talk, non-profit director Anne Wright shares the challenges of being a social worker and the feelings of hopelessness it can create. She tells us how embracing those feelings can help us better empathize, and ultimately help relieve the suffering of others. Anne Wright is the Execute Director of Firehouse Ministries. Firehouse Ministries works to provide homeless men with a caring environment that offers supportive services designed to break the cycle of homelessness and empower individuals to achieve. In 2016, Firehouse Ministries served over 5,000 homeless men, women, and children by serving 132,742 meals and provided shelter for 215 men a night.

Wright is a Birmingham native who has deep commitment to raising awareness on issues related to systemic poverty in the South. Wright challenges citizens to think globally and act locally to address social issues in society. She is a sought after speaker and contributor to discussions on health and human services, housing, and poverty. Wright serves on several advisory committees addressing mental health issues, veteran’s issues, and homelessness. She lives by the philosophy that “No one is free when others are oppressed.”

She is excited to see a new generation of leaders in Birmingham making it the place they dreamed of when they were young. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

More from this channel