“Accept full responsibility for what you did, seek to make amends, and say yes as much as you can to help others, and you will find purpose and meaning and be free.”
At 20 years old, John Valverde committed a crime that landed him in prison. While incarcerated, he was able to rebuild his life by first accepting responsibility for what he had done, and by using education as a catalyst to help himself and to help other inmates.
Upon his release 16 years later, he dedicated his life to serving others, ultimately becoming the first formally incarcerated CEO of a non-profit with a global mission – YouthBuild.
Self reflection and growth are at the heart of John’s story. He continues to be an example for second chances, showing us how having the courage to be vulnerable can open doors and lead to opportunities.
