Photo: Homboy Industries
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There’s one organization that truly embodies the spirit of Los Angeles, and it’s Homeboy Industries. What began in 1988 as a grassroots effort by Father Gregory Boyle to improve the lives of former gang members in East L.A. has grown into a beacon of hope for the city. Today, Homeboy Industries stands proudly as the largest gang intervention, rehabilitation, and re-entry program in the world.
And now, thanks to Secret Los Angeles’ exclusive new Secret Club, you can support their incredible mission—and score a 15% discount on their online shop while you do it! But before you add their famous baked goods and iconic merch to your cart, let’s take a deep-dive into this massive community and business network they’ve assembled here in the City of Angels.
A Community Built on Kinship
In 1986, when Father Greg Boyle became the pastor of Dolores Mission Church, the surrounding neighborhoods had the highest concentration of gang activity in Los Angeles. Where others saw a problem to be solved with mass incarceration, Father Greg saw people who desperately needed help, love, and a second chance.
Ever since, nearly 9,000 people have walked through their doors looking to transform their lives. They are welcomed into a radical community of kinship and offered an 18-month flagship employment and re-entry program.
Along with a paycheck, trainees receive free, life-changing wraparound services such as laser tattoo removal, mental health therapy, legal assistance, and substance abuse counseling.
Photo: Homeboy Industries
What makes Homeboy Industries truly unique is its innovative business model. They don’t just offer social services; they create jobs. Homeboy operates a thriving ecosystem of social enterprises that serve as active job-training sites for formerly gang-involved and previously incarcerated men and women.
You’ve probably seen their iconic logo around the city or tasted their incredible food. From the Homeboy Bakery and Homegirl Café to Homeboy Silkscreen & Embroidery, Homeboy Electronics Recycling, and Homeboy Farmers Markets, these businesses and social enterprises are the lifeblood of the organization’s funding. They are the easiest way to support their incredible work, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for all their vital ventures.
Homeboy is a crucial part of the L.A. community, making it the perfect partner for the Secret Club–our online community where locals can unlock the very best that our city has to offer.
Secret Club x Homeboy Industries
There is no better way to show your L.A. pride than by supporting a business that actively protects and heals our community. That’s why the Secret Club is thrilled to offer members an exclusive 15% discount on the Homeboy Industries online shop.
Whether you’re craving their legendary baked goods or looking to pick up some fresh Homeboy merchandise, your purchase directly funds their services and job training programs.
Not a member yet? The Secret Club is L.A.’s ultimate insider community, offering city-wide perks, dining discounts, curated local guides, and VIP experiences for less than the price of your daily matcha. Click the link below to sign up now!