ALAN LEE ALLEN

prized possession : bicycle

Alan Lee Allen, a calm, 44-year old soul, sits and enjoys the sunshine with some friends. He is happy to participate in an art project. The Washington State native has been in Denver for ten years. He’s been homeless on and off during that decade. “I’ve been an apartment manager, I’ve been a construction manager, I’ve done a lot of stuff. But every summer I either get fed up with everything or lose my job, and continue the cycle,” he explains of his housing patterns. “I’m a little old,” he laughs. “I turn 45 on December 31. I’m a New Years Eve baby.” Alan also prides himself on putting time into helping those who help him. He volunteers at a church every Wednesday, serving soup and sandwiches to those who need a meal. 

 

Prized Possession: Bicycle. Alan gained ownership of his bicycle through volunteering. “There are some ladies that do the volunteer work with me on Wednesdays. This one gave me this bike because I help her out. She gives me a little bit of cash too every once in awhile,” he says with gratitude. Having had five bikes stolen in the past year, this one is special because Alan “hasn’t let anybody steal it.” More importantly he says, “It gets me around.” When posing with his bicycle, Alan defers to the busy city automobile traffic. “I’m in no rush, I’d rather be safe,” he says simply.