HOW TO BUILD A STRONG NETWORK, FIND MENTORS AND MENTORSHIP PROGRAMS IN LOS ANGELES COUNTY

Coming home after doing time is a major transition, and the people you surround yourself with can make or break your future. You need a solid team—people who will keep you accountable, encourage your growth, and help you build a real path forward. But where do you find that support?

In Los Angeles County, there are organizations and mentorship programs that specialize in helping people coming home from prison get connected, get mentored, and get moving in the right direction. Whether you’re looking for peer support, career mentorship, or just someone who understands the struggle, these programs have your back.

Step 1: Surround Yourself with People Who Want to See You Win

The biggest mistake? Going back to the same circles that led to trouble. That’s not the move. Instead, find people who are serious about change—people who have been through the system and are now focused on staying out, getting jobs, and building real lives.

Where to Find Support in Los Angeles County

• Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC) – A powerful community of formerly incarcerated individuals who support each other. ARC offers mentorship, housing assistance, job training, and even college support. If you want real change, these are your people. Learn more here.

• Amity Foundation – If you need a stable place to stay, a mentor, or job training, Amity has programs designed for reentry. They provide peer-led support to help you adjust and grow. Visit their site.

• A New Way of Life – Focused on helping formerly incarcerated women, they provide housing, legal support, and mentorship. Check them out here.

• Homeboy Industries – If you’re serious about finding work and leaving the streets behind, Homeboy Industries can help. They offer job training, therapy, and community support—all designed for people with records. Learn more here.

Step 2: Find a Mentor Who’s Been There

A mentor can make your transition easier by giving you advice, motivation, and real-life strategies to move forward. The right mentor will show you how to handle job interviews, how to manage your time, and how to stay away from people and habits that could land you back inside.

Where to Find a Mentor in Los Angeles County

• On My Grind’s Mentorship Program – We match you with mentors who understand your background and can guide you through reentry. Whether you need career coaching, emotional support, or just someone to help you stay focused, we’ve got you. Sign up here.

• Brotherhood Crusade – This South LA-based organization offers mentorship, career training, and youth empowerment programs. If you’re under 30, this is a great place to connect with mentors. Check them out.

• Urban Peace Institute – They focus on violence prevention and mentorship programs for people coming out of incarceration. Their programs can connect you with support in your community. Find more info here.

Step 3: Change Your Environment, Change Your Future

If you’re serious about staying free, you have to change your habits and who you surround yourself with. That means:

Get into structured programs – Whether it’s job training, housing support, or mental health counseling, sign up and show up.

Cut out negativity – If people aren’t rooting for your success, it’s time to distance yourself.

Stay active in the right circles – Join local support groups, mentorship programs, or community events designed for reentry.

Build Your Support System Today

You don’t have to do this alone. The right people are out there—you just need to take the first step.

Join On My Grind’s Mentorship Program for one-on-one guidance from someone who gets it. Sign up now.

Get involved in reentry support programs like ARC, Homeboy Industries, or Brotherhood Crusade.

Make the first move—reach out, connect, and start building your future.

Your past doesn’t define you—your next move does. Build the support squad that will help you win.