“I found out about Defy through a friend and was taken aback that a program like this exists for people like me. Defy changes lives, believes in second chances, and makes a home for those society has deemed unworthy. When people ask me what I’m doing, I'm super proud to tell them that I’m part of Defy's program. I haven't had anything in my life that I've been proud of in a long time. Defy gives me hope for my future.” - Javier
Javier is enrolled in Defy’s Entrepreneurship Bootcamp program, which provides entrepreneurship training for formerly incarcerated individuals who did not have the opportunity to complete Defy’s in-prison program. People with criminal histories often struggle to find work or access resources to help them start their own businesses. Defy’s Bootcamp program provides a pathway to entrepreneurship through building skills and a network for formerly incarcerated people to launch their own businesses.
“Defy has played an instrumental role in so many stages of my reentry—my incarceration, release, and job search. I attended every Defy event after I was released and because of it, my network was insane! I was introduced to Checkr through Defy and I’ve been at the company nearly two years now. Getting this job at Checkr was a gift and I’m so grateful to be able to help others with criminal histories.” - Kevin
Javier is enrolled in Defy’s Entrepreneurship Bootcamp program, which provides entrepreneurship training for formerly incarcerated individuals who did not have the opportunity to complete Defy’s in-prison program. People with criminal histories often struggle to find work or access resources to help them start their own businesses. Defy’s Bootcamp program provides a pathway to entrepreneurship through building skills and a network for formerly incarcerated people to launch their own businesses.
“My experience with Defy has been life-changing. I have really learned a lot about myself and how I can change for the better. Defy not only teaches us about starting our own business but also about becoming a respected person and part of society. The apology letter we had to write really made me think about all the things I've done in life and how it affected those around me. I learned how to set goals for myself and see them through. This program has been incredible for my personal growth and confidence. I’m excited to be in this group and I can’t wait to start my own business!” - Rubi
Rubi graduated from Defy’s CEO of Your New Life (CEO YNL) program at the California Institution for Women. CEO YNL starts the reentry process while individuals are still incarcerated and builds confidence, skills, and hope. Through meaningful events with business executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, Defy creates humanizing connections between volunteers and Defy participants and breaks down perceptions and stereotypes.
“My business all started with Defy. I wouldn’t be where I am without them. Throughout the program, Defy always made me feel like a partner in working toward my goals and I felt confident that they would be there to walk with me in my journey. I don’t know of a better organization that works with formerly incarcerated individuals to help them achieve their dreams. Defy connected me to an incredible community and mentor, and that community helped me complete, step by step, the Payment Protection Program loan this summer to keep my business going. When I think about Defy, their support system, the mentors, and how they’re there when you think everything is lost—it amazes me. Defy means everything to me. ” - Sharon
Sharon started her business through Defy’s Accelerator program. With the skills, tools, and community that Defy equipped her with, Sharon built a thriving catering business—Just Soul Catering. Traditional pathways to entrepreneurship, like loan agencies and networks that provide support and capital, are often not available to formerly incarcerated people. Defy helps fill this gap to help people like Sharon realize their visions.
