Bill Strickland tells a quiet and astonishing tale of redemption through arts, music, and unlikely partnerships. TEDTalks is a daily video podcast of the best talks and performances from the TED Conference, where the world's leading thinkers and doers give the talk of their lives in 18 minutes (or less). Look for talks on Technology, Entertainment and Design -- plus science, business, global issues, the arts and much more. Find closed captions and translated subtitles in many languages at http://www.ted.com/translate Follow TED news on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/tednews Like TED on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TED Subscribe to our channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/TEDtalksDirector

Comments

1. Bill, pictures are great, but let me tell you that your words have impacted me profoundly. You were the keynote speaker in Portland, OR at an Art from the Heart conference and I was in awe of your message, never forgetting the things you said in your speech that day. Since then, I have dreamed of doing something like what you have done. This is incredible to see you again ! Love and light to you and prayers for your continued strength in continuing in doing the work. <3
2. Wow! Thank you Bill Strickland for what you have done and the "template" you have built for others to work with! Incredible!!!
3. Found this because of TED NPR!
4. This is one of the greatest stories I’ve ever heard.  It’s so nice to see someone who isn’t just talking about what they plan to do, but are actually doing it and it being an absolute success! 
   One thing to be careful of, you don’t want to build these centers in heavily gentrifying areas.  Because, in 5-10 years the people who these centers were meant to serve will no longer be there.  E.g. the building built in the San Francisco’s Bay View district, had it been in any other area of the city it would be benefiting other people, because all of the Blacks have been kicked out.  In 1980 SF was 38% Black; today it’s less than 4%.   And this type of city planning (gentrification strategies) is being implemented all across the country.  
   Right now in Oakland, Ca, instead of the city empowering its citizens to be first time home buyers it is encouraging and inviting large international corporations to buy up all of the single family homes.  How can an average American with a pretty good job and a family ever know homeownership in this environment?  Rent being raised $350 in one year alone is common here in West Oakland.  This is meant to kick existing residents out.
5. Thank ya
6. Well damn. I needed some inspiration and this gave me a good dose.