Father Gregory Boyle of Homeboy Industries drew a crowd of more than 300 to Corpus Christi for the Post’s debut Speaker Series event on Tuesday evening, Jan. 21.
Guests arrived in style via a red carpet provided by Events by Fabulous and were treated to music and a light show courtesy of Ambiance AV.
The event was catered by one of Homeboy Industries’ social enterprises, Homegirl Café, which provided complimentary quesadillas, turkey and vegetarian sandwiches, chips and salsa and other hors d’oeuvres and beverages.
Frances Sharpe, the Post’s Editor-in-Chief acted as host for the evening, welcoming the audience and conducting a Q&A with Boyle after his presentation.
The Post’s owner Alan Smolinisky, a board member at Homeboy Industries, introduced Boyle with tales of life behind-the-scenes at the gang member rehabilitation program headquartered in downtown Los Angeles.
In his signature no-holds-barred style, Boyle spoke candidly of his work, sharing stories of hope, second chances and the pride of earning a legal paycheck.
His stories struck a chord with the audience, leading to roars of laughter and at times, teary eyes.
“A lot of programs offer wrap-around services, but we offer a wrap-around place,” Boyle told the standing-room-only crowd. “What we do is relational. It’s not just about services, it’s about healing through community.”
Homeboy Industries offers former gang members a place to work where they can learn vocational skills training to build confidence and self-esteem while providing for their families.
Guests at the Speaker Series had the opportunity to support the efforts of Homebody Industries through donations and merchandise purchases.
Funds raised allow Homeboy ‘clients’ to receive vocational training, mental health care and myriad of services.
These services bring the annual operating costs at Homeboy Industries to nearly $15 million.
Boyle’s message of healing and compassion was met with a standing ovation before the floor was opened for questions from the audience.
Whether guests were longtime supporters of Boyle’s work, or newly introduced to his story, his message resonated.
Palisadian Theresa K. left feeling inspired and encouraged by Boyle’s message.
She said she felt “a sense of joy and renewed hope at the thought of what it means to be alive.”
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