On Point In California With Homeboy Industries

47:45

May 16, 2011

We go to Southern California to look at the gang life, the inner city economy and the story of Homeboy Industries.

Father Gregory Boyle hugs Robert Trejo, a former gang member, in his office at Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles. (AP)

Homeboy Industries is a place for young Angelinos to find a path away from crime and trouble. As well as a place for gang members, at-risk youth, to get some tattoos removed and some anger management classes. But most of all, it is a place to get a job.

Lorretta Andrews, The Rev. Greg Boyle, On Point's Tom Ashbrook and Robin Alvarez on stage at On Point's live show at member station KCLU in Santa Barbara, Calif. (Geoffrey McQuilkin/On Point)

Over twenty years, it’s put people to work in the Homeboy Bakery, the Homegirl Café, Homeboy Silkscreen and Homeboy Maintenance. It’s been a national model.

Then came the real economic meltdown.

This hour, On Point: a special edition from southern California with Homeboy Industries founder, Father Gregory Boyle.
-Tom Ashbrook
Guests:

Father Greg Boyle, Jesuit priest and director and founder of Homeboy Industries, which assists at-risk, recently released, and formerly gang involved youth to become contributing members of their communities in Los Angeles, California.
Robin Alvarez, former gang member and father of three. He works for Homeboy Industries.
Lorretta Andrews, mother of four. She served time in prison and now works for Homeboy Industries.

This program aired on May 16, 2011.