|
Demetrius Daniel |
|
Demetrius Daniel
Nickname: Flip
Age: 42
Paroling to: San Jose or Oakland, California
Family: my wife
Why did you join the T.R.U.S.T.?
First to give back from my lifestyle. Second to participate with men who have changed their lives. Third to learn the whole organization. I take this back to the community.
What does being a T.R.U.S.T. Fellow mean to you?
Integrity and responsibility to this organization and a commitment to myself and to the population. Working with my sponsor.
Since coming to prison, what have you accomplished?
I was 22 when I came to prison, now I’m 42. I took full responsibility for my action. Internally, it is more about self-growth. I am proud of who I am. Today, I have matured into a decent person. I truly understand what life is; I surrender myself over to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I know what a true father is now. I know to never put myself in that kind of situation again. Being a responsible citizen inside and out. Education; College; trades; Masonry Welding; Basic electronic; A.A.; N.A. ; Faith-Based 1, 2, & 3; Kairos; Computers; One-on-One Therapy; New Leaf; Boot Camp; No More Tears; Man Alive; Restorative Justice; I.M.P.A.C.T.; R.E.A.L. Choices; Project Choice; Non-Violence; Anger Management; V.O.E.G.; Parenting Class; Alternatives to Violence.
What are some of your hobbies and interests?
Working out. Movies. Chiseling. Building. Traveling. Jet Skiing. Helping Others. Speaking to men of all ages.
What programs are you involved with other than the T.R.U.S.T.?
No More Tears. R.E.A.L. Choices; A.A.; Project Choice; I.M.P.A.C.T.; Anger Management; Boot Camp; B.C.F.; Hitland Ministry; Restorative Justice; V.O.E.G.; Non-violence. Kairos. Day of Peace.
What kind of work do you do with the “inside” and/or “outside” communities?
I help facilitate the classes on substance abuse, housing, and at the T.R.U.S.T Health Fair where we get almost every man inside to get a full check-up. As far as the outside communities, we share real life experiences. We have workshops. We share our stories and speak to friends and family to spread the message. We also hold concerts.
How do you live up to the T.R.U.S.T. value system? How do you promote the ideals of the T.R.U.S.T. outside the workshops?
Living by the T.R.U.S.T. value system through integrity and leadership. I communicate to other members. I help come up with ideals and ideas and get them on paper. I speak with the community. And then our sponsors or the radio help get the message out.
What do you want to do after you parole?
I want to have my own business, promote the T.R.U.S.T. outside, help men inside and out, and curb the violence.
What are your long-term goals?
First I want to get off parole. Then have my own business. Be contracted to help the T.R.U.S.T. Do community service. Married and have more kids. Promote stop the violence. Be able to come inside and let these men see you can overcome this situation. Travel the world. Especially go fishing and dirt bike riding. Go to an NBA or NFL or baseball game. Let the community know I have changed and you can change if you are willing to humble yourself.
Personal message to the outside community:
First let me say I’m sorry I was part of the problem. Now, I have something to offer as far as training the youth and myself. Also, never give up on us. You can change. We can change. We have. This life was handed down, so we can fix this problem. Education is the key to social and economic injustice. Please tell every kid, or teenage, listen to your parents, plus be your own leader. Know right from wrong. Any problems you have get help. Don’t be scared to ask. You are the future.
|
|
|
