Help Homeboy Industries!

We had just turned a corner when Jason, with all of his tattoos and piercings, introduced himself to us five months ago. He needed a quick bite to eat, so we took him a Subway, just a block away from where we were. We spent about a half-hour with Jason—talking, eating, sharing our lives with one another.

He gave us a new picture of life in Downtown LA. And the life of a former gang member.

Jason was deeply, profoundly impacted by an LA organization called Homeboy Industries. This remarkable program assists at-risk and formerly gang-involved youth to become positive and contributing members of society through job placement, training and education. Since it’s founding in 1986, it has grown to become the nation’s largest anti-gang program, serving more than 8,000 gang members from 700 different gangs.

Now, facing an overwhelming financial struggle, the organization has been forced to lay off 300 employees. They will continue to provide select services to the community, provided former staff members can lend their time on a volunteer basis. Homeboy Industries needs an estimated $5 million to stay afloat.

Though it might sound hard to reach, it is completely possible. Here’s a few ways you can help:

Click Here to Download the Event Flyer

1) Attend a Fundraising Event and Performance for Homeboy Industries:

On Sunday, August 1 from 4 pm—7pm, Homeboy is throwing a special one-time fundraising event and performance. The evening will feature special guest speaker, Father Gregory Boyle (the founder of Homeboy Industries) plus musical performances, a silent auction, and a reception.

Tickets are only $25.00 for general admission and $20.00 for students! The event takes place at The Herbert Zipper Concert Hall at 200 South Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA.

For more information, please download the flyer to the left, and feel free to forward it along to friends, family, and colleagues. You can also call Maria Hall (626.354.1674) or Renee Lightford (626.590.8415)

2) Make a One-Time or Regular Contribution to Homeboy Industries:

Your donations help Homeboy Industries continue their great work in the community with programs such as: mental health counseling, free tattoo removal, a charter school, job placement, and regular seminars on a variety of topics like anger management and domestic violence. The organization runs five businesses where enemy/rival gang members work side by side (Homeboy Bakery, Homegirl Cafe, Homeboy Silkscreen, Homeboy/Homegirl Merchandise and Homeboy Maintenance). Click here to donate now.

3) Volunteer Your Time at Homeboy Industries:

The volunteers of Homeboy Industries assist the organization in tasks such as tutoring and management to tattoo removal. Their needs change periodically, so click here to see their latest volunteer opportunities.

Everyone at The Hope Chronicles would like to personally thank you for your help in keeping one of Los Angeles’ most remarkable Downtown outreach organizations vibrant and alive!