Homeless to Hero

Marty Findley’s path has not been without obstacles, including drug addiction.

“It’s something that I have wished time and time again that I had never started,” explains Marty. “But if I had not taken that path, I may not have experienced some of the things that I am most proud of.”

Marty believes that regardless of anyone’s past, it is never too late to give to others, and credits this philosophy as the single most important factor in overcoming his addiction and maintaining a drug-free lifestyle for the past 18 months.

“I woke up one day and decided I was done,” Marty explains. “I didn’t have a home and didn’t have a job. I wanted a better life and living on the streets was not working for me.”

With the assistance of Joppa, Marty applied for and obtained a grant that provided emergency housing for up to six months.

“It was hard for me to accept the grant because I’m too proud,” Marty states. “But I decided that pride is an ugly thing and if I swallowed my pride – just this once – I might actually have a shot at a better life.”

Marty admits that staying substance-free is a daily struggle. He copes with the temptation by filling his days with activities that contribute to making the world a better place, including being an advocate to end human trafficking in all forms.

“I’ve lost a lot,” Marty states, “but I did not lose my voice and I can use that voice to speak out for those who might not be able to do so on their own.”

Marty uses his voice to combat human trafficking among those that are the most vulnerable — the homeless. Marty has always been interested in a career in law enforcement. Realizing that a transgression from his past would be a long-term barrier in pursuing a career in the criminal justice field, he determined that he could still serve on a volunteer basis by educating those that are at the highest risk.

“Knowing that people are out there and can be taken at any time, keeps me motivated,” Marty explains. Marty further noted that last year, his efforts resulted in seven women being relocated to safe places. “Knowing that I am making a difference helps me cope with my own demons,” Marty clarifies.

Those that are closest to Marty call him Batman. “I’ve always pursued justice and that is something that is especially important to the homeless,” explains Marty. “Because of this, friends started calling me Batman and the nickname just sort of stuck.”

Marty states that the nickname is humbling. He is a firm believer that not all super heroes wear capes. “Everyone has the potential to be a hero,” Marty explains. “I see everyday people—just like me—helping others on a regular basis. The smallest gesture can have an impact greater than we will ever know.”

Marty credits the kindness of Joppa staff and volunteers in overcoming addiction and homelessness, and leading him on a path to assist others in doing the same.

“I was looking for a sign,” Marty adds. “That sign came in the form of Joppa, it was like my own personal bat signal.”

It was a signal that illuminated Marty’s path and led him to a new home.