Our Motivational Speaker

RICHARD BATES

Born and raised in Tucson, Arizona, I had a childhood filled with warmth, family values, and faith. As I grew older, I was eager to explore life beyond the desert, and that curiosity led me to Minneapolis, Minnesota. What I found was a world very different from the one I came from. I landed in a neighborhood marked by high crime and survival-mode living. Over time, I got pulled into the streets—throwing up gang signs, dealing, and using drugs. I knew deep down it wasn’t the life I was meant to live, but for a while, it felt like the only way to belong.

I often found myself questioning the value of my choices, especially when I remembered the teachings of my family—especially my grandmother—who instilled in me the importance of faith, family, and rising above adversity. Eventually, my addiction led to incarceration, but that time behind bars became a turning point. It gave me space to reflect and unlearn the self-destructive behaviors that landed me there.

My true transformation began when I entered a treatment program and met the brothers from Time To Evolve Coalition. Their message hit home and gave me the motivation to dig deeper into my recovery. They told me I was welcome to join them when I was ready—and they meant it. The day I was discharged, T-TEC showed up, and they’ve had my back ever since.

Today, I'm proud to be part of a movement that believes in redemption, healing, and change. I’m no longer trapped in the pain and chaos of the past. Instead, I’m fueled by purpose, honoring my grandmother’s legacy by spreading love where I once spread hurt. T-TEC helped me understand that vulnerability is a sign of strength, and that it's never too late to rewrite your story.

Join us in this mission. It takes a village—and together, we can evolve.