THE WORK SHOULD MATTER AFTER THE APPLAUSE.
Fernando's work extends beyond the stage through youth mentorship, the Life Ready Retreat, Life Ready Academy, and the Velasco Family Foundation. The goal is the same in every room: help people tell the truth sooner, build stronger support, and know who they are beyond achievement.
Watch the TEDx Talk
Where the Work Happens
Youth Mentorship
Life Ready Retreat
Life Ready Academy
Velasco Family Foundation
Life Ready Retreat & School Visits
In Their Words
He tells his story with a courage and authenticity that disarms the room, and in doing so he gives everyone else permission to do the same. I've seen grown men and young people alike set down what they've been carrying because someone else went first.”
Andrew Davenport, A New VeteranLife Ready Retreat parent, three yearsI saw our students open up, confront things they had been carrying internally, and begin to recognize that their circumstances do not have to determine their future. To this day, Fernando continues to pour into my life and the lives of the children at The Drake House.”
Joshua AlbrightYouth Program Coordinator, The Drake HouseFernando has built genuine relationships with our young men and created a space where they feel supported, heard, and encouraged to grow. We are proud to partner with Life Ready Academy and grateful for the lasting impact Fernando is making in our school community.”
Camille Reyes, LMSWSchool Social Worker, Jefferson County School SystemEach year we learned something different during the training sessions. So many life lessons were covered each year that we went back home and utilized in our lives.”
Aurthur Wilcher, Young Men UnitedLife Ready Retreat partner, four years