LatinaLista — Their full title is: Homies Organizing the Mission to Empower Youth.
Unlike most nonprofits that target at-risk kids, the Executive Director of H.O.M.E.Y. was himself very much at-risk. A former gang member and drug dealer, Rene Quinonez, now dedicates himself to a mission that takes him far from his past and deserves recognition and a loud shout-out.
The mission of H.O.M.E.Y. is:
HOMEY is a non-profit organization that serves at-risk and low-income Latino/a youth in the San Franciscos Mission District between the ages of 13-24. This group of young Latino/a that include youth in gangs, formally incarcerated, at-risk of incarceration, disenfranchised, or underprivileged communities. HOMEY is run by community organizers and former gang members who work to prevent violence and promote alternative lifestyles to the street life.
Since 1999, HOMEY has created publications, implemented educational programs, created murals, and hosted numerous events promoting healthier lifestyles and well-being. HOMEY has developed five programs: Homies Skoolin Homies, Kalpulli, Older Homies, Native Graphix, and Healthy Homies that work together to prevent violence and bring about an alternative education for the community.
With so many worthy activities to keep these students engaged, it takes money. Word is that H.O.M.E.Y. could use a little financial help. If you can help, please send an email to AnaMaria@HomeySF.org.
And Latina Lista applauds the work of Quinonez and the whole H.O.M.E.Y. staff!
