Father Greg Boyle of Homeboy Industries, Part 1

In his flagship episode of “I Have Something to Say”, Gabriel Buelna interviews Father Greg Boyle in a three part series for Nonprofit News.

Father Boyle is the founder of Homeboy Industries, the largest gang intervention program in the country. The “program”  has become a highly successful national model that provides job training, placement assistance and other forms of support to ex-gang members including services such as free tattoo removal.

Homeboy Industries has a post on it site which says, “Tattoo removal is a critical positive step in a long and challenging journey out of gang life and into positive social integration with the community at large. Many gang members have visible tattoos that inhibit their ability to secure employment, thus we offer free tattoo removal.” This is one of the many services that has made Homeboy a trailblazer in its field.

Another of the  noted features of Homeboy Industries is its small businesses.  The small businesses have served to provide employment for those individuals who have been the most difficult to place. These  small businesses provide transitional jobs, give the participants a safe supportive environment in which to learn both concrete and soft job skills, while simultaneously building their resume and work experience.

This is a must watch interview.
Sharon Kyle
Publisher, LA Progressive