On Monday, the group I was in (Shangri-LA) visited the Homegirl Cafe and took a tour throughout the Homeboys Industries building, which housed a large portion of those who they worked with/employed.
Our tour guide, Robert, shared his story of gang affiliation, prison, and substance abuse. What left a impression on me was the fact that even though he underwent all these hardships, and had his kids taken from him, he continued to push through and sought help from Homeboys. When I first saw him, it never crossed my mind that he was a victim of gang violence or drugs, and it was really inspiring to hear his story and recovery.
Additionally, I found that the entire Homeboys Industries organization to be very special, as unlike others, they also give help to those involved in gangs, not just the homeless. It was very surprising to hear about how rival gang enemies could both come to Homeboys, join their program, and get along as if they were friends, erasing these gangs' differences.
