Former 49er Bubba Paris lends his support to the Safe Havens cause

Bubba Paris and Karen

"Changing times require changing minds," said Paris standing in the empty warehouse in Concord that will soon be transformed into the Safe Havens Product & Services Shoppe.

He said it is vital for people to become independent, and they have to be empowered.

Paris, who often appears as a motivational speaker, said, "I focus most of my efforts on areas that affect young people." He said people learn limits to success. He encourages young children by telling them that they can do anything if they believe they can. Paris is supporting Safe Havens and was on hand for the grand opening of the shop to auction off sports memorabilia to benefit the organization.