Catalyze Impact Ep. 4 - Empowering Change: Gemma García on Transforming Lives in Prison Through LEAP

How did a former Wall Street trader become a beacon of hope for incarcerated women? Join us as Gemma Garcia, the inspiring co-founder of the Ladies' Empowerment in Action Program (LEAP), shares her journey from the fast-paced world of finance to transforming lives behind prison walls. Discover how her move to Miami and subsequent volunteer work in prisons opened her eyes to the power of education and personal development for women with traumatic pasts. Gemma delves into the core elements of LEAP, highlighting the importance of trauma-informed education, holistic support, and strategic partnerships, like the one with NBC Telemundo, which provides critical internship opportunities for graduates.
Feel the passion in Gemma’s voice as she reflects on the profound rewards of her work with LEAP. She shares moving stories of transformation, such as a program graduate who rose to become the director of LEAP’s reentry center, proving the program’s impact on reducing recidivism and enhancing community reintegration. We also underscore the vital contributions of retired volunteers, like grant writers, showing that meaningful opportunities for those over 50 are essential to the program’s success. This episode is a testament to the power of vision and community in creating a brighter future for women seeking a second chance.
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