Meet Ashley Luong | Community Activist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Luong and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
Working with the unhoused community has profoundly reshaped my perceptions and values, teaching me the invaluable lesson to never judge a book by its cover. Engaging with individuals who possess rich stories beyond their circumstances has been eye-opening, revealing their resilience, kindness, and untapped potential. This experience has not only enriched my professional life by enhancing my empathy and understanding but has also transformed me personally. I’ve learned the importance of looking beyond superficial judgments and appreciating the depth of human spirit. It’s a humbling reminder that everyone has a unique story worthy of being heard and respected. This journey has instilled in me a greater sense of compassion and humility, urging me to approach each interaction with an open heart and mind, forever altering how I perceive and engage with the world around me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I set out to get my degree in Social Work, all I really knew was that I wanted to help people, even though I didn’t have a clear plan. That all started to change during my internship at Mission Oak Cliff. It was my first time working one on one with the homeless population, and honestly, I was pretty nervous. I didn’t know how to connect with people whose lives seemed so different from mine. I had all these preconceptions, shaped by stereotypes I didn’t even realize I had.

But as I spent more time there, my perspective shifted. I realized my previous notions were all wrong. The people I met weren’t defined by their situation—they were kind, spirited, and incredibly resilient individuals who had just hit some tough spots. Each of their stories was unique, each struggle personal, but there was this shared thread of hope and humanity that really stood out to me.

Over the past three years at Mission Oak Cliff, I’ve been lucky enough to be part of many people’s journeys. Seeing someone go from being homeless to having a place they can call home has been beyond transformative. The pride and joy I feel for them are overwhelming, and when they choose to share this amazing news with me first, it fills me with a warmth that reassures me I’m exactly where I’m meant to be. This experience has taught me that helping others isn’t just about providing necessities; it’s about building relationships and offering support that empowers people to take back their lives. Working with the homeless has not only shaped my career but has enriched my life, helping me find my true calling in the world.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
When a friend comes to visit the Dallas-Fort Worth area, we’d kick things off with a classic baseball game at the Texas Rangers’ stadium. Attending games are one of my favorite weekend things to during the summer. We’d grab some classic ballpark snacks, like a hot dog and pretzel, and settle in for a fun day of baseball.

Next, we’d head over to the Dallas World Aquarium. It’s such a neat place to explore, with all the amazing sea life and fascinating creatures from around the world. After that, the Dallas Zoo is a must-see. The zoo is full of incredible animals, from elephants, to penguins, to tigers, it is one of favorite things to do.

A trip to DFW wouldn’t be complete without hitting up the Fort Worth Stockyards. We’d catch a rodeo show watching the cattle roping and barrel racing, it is so exciting. Seeing the longhorns on their trail run through the stockyard is such a cool experience!

Of course, we couldn’t miss out on the amazing food here. We’d dig into some delicious hand pulled noodles at Bushi Bushi Dim Sum Place. Then we’d get some sushi at Hatsuyuki Handroll Bar. And of course we’d also have to go to Heim Barbecue—a local favorite that never disappoints.

To wrap up our adventure, we’d swing by La La Land Kind Cafe for some coffee. This spot is perfect for grabbing a cup of coffee and chatting about all the fun we’ve had.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Mission Oak Cliff has been a cornerstone in my journey, offering countless opportunities to collaborate with incredible individuals and learn invaluable lessons. From the moment I joined, I was embraced by a vibrant community where collaboration and learning are central. Working with diverse people has enriched my understanding of the world and my place within it, teaching me resilience, empathy, and the power of community. The unwavering support and dedication of the staff and community have been instrumental in my growth, believing in my potential even when I doubted myself, and guiding me to reach for the stars. Reflecting on my time with Mission Oak Cliff, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and relationships that have laid the groundwork for the person I am becoming. Mission Oak Cliff is not just part of my past but a continuing influence on my present and future, providing a solid foundation and sense of purpose, for which I am eternally grateful.

Instagram: https://ashley.goal

Facebook: Ashley Luong