MEET DESHAUN,

He’s close to his release date and wants a different future; one that breaks his family’s old patterns. He talks about building something real and leaving the street stuff behind. In his words, he wants to “build an empire.”

There’s an internal conflict: years in the system and the pull of the streets vs. the new life God is calling him to—the man‑made empire vs. the Kingdom of God.

We’ve only been inside since July 1, but already he’s naming the gap: not another class—someone who shows up. Yesterday we asked, “What would help you stay on this path?”
He said, “A mentor.”

One word. A wake‑up call.

Most youth won’t spell it out, but they’re hungry for caring adults who don’t disappear.
Modern Abolition is preparing those mentors and building a circle of community partners (job training, faith communities, positive spaces) so when the door opens youth like Deshaun aren’t standing alone—they’re surrounded.

This is how change begins: presence before promises.

*Name & photo have been changed to protect privacy.