Joe Ramirez is a native Texan who grew up in Lubbock. Joe served our country by joining the Marine Corp as a radio operator for 4 years and he got to experience life in Japan, Korea and Camp Pendleton, CA. Joe has pursued his education goals and obtained an Associates in Speech Communication from South Plains College as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from UTSA. He has over 12 years of experience working directly with the low income, homeless and justice involved veterans populations. Joe shared with me that he is most proud of being a consultant for National Veterans Training Institute (NVTI) and creating a new course “Career Coaching for Special Populations” that is taught nationwide.
In his words,”The reason I accepted the RAP position is because it can be challenging with background issues. Having lived experience with Homelessness and Justice Involvement, I see the need for fellowship navigation. Many do not understand where or how to ask for assistance. RAP gives that “Safe Place” feeling! You are welcome amongst friends & colleagues – we all have faced reacclimating back to society after facing obstacles from Justice Involvement. There are programs and individuals who care- and want to highlight that growth to the next level. Reducing recidivism is one of the main goals, but we also want participants to know self-worth and set the example in society. Mistakes can be made, but it’s how you learn and go forth from there.”
Written by Amanda Cassidy, Reentry Advocacy Fellow.