The Global Homeboy Network (GHN) was founded in 2014 with a mission to work with organizations across the globe to create a network that offers job skills training, cost-free programs and services, and social enterprise employment. Over the years, a major part of their outreach to the community has been offering free laser tattoo removal services to those seeking their assistance. Astanza Laser is proud to be the provider of laser tattoo removal machines, training, and maintenance for the Homeboy Network since 2014.
Background of Homeboy Industries and Laser Tattoo Removal
At Homeboy, laser tattoo removal is provided to individuals who are either enrolled in the Homeboy program or are community clients. The laser tattoo removal services offered by Homeboy Network have proven to be a critical service for former gang members because many of them possess visible tattoos, a physical obstacle that hinders them from obtaining secure employment. One of the most common reasons why Homeboy clients say they want to remove their tattoos is the hope of setting a good example for their children. The Tattoo Removal Program is often a “gateway” service for those who come to Homeboy; many seek only this service and end up learning about the other offerings, such as mental health, education, and job development.
Often the first step in leaving gang life is recognizing that gang-related tattoos are unwelcome in the workplace. At Homeboy, tattoo removal is a free service provided to trainees, community clients, and minors who have gang-related or visible tattoos located on the hands, neck, or face. The gang tattoo laser removal program at Homeboy consists of:
- 35 volunteer doctors
- Four laser tattoo removal machines
- 3,000 tattoos treated for 950 clients per month
- Priority on gang-related tattoo removals
The outcome Homeboy Network is attempting to accomplish with their laser tattoo removal program is improving employment prospects for their clients and making parents better role models.
More on Laser Tattoo Removal at Homeboy Industries
Astanza Laser and Homeboy Network
Performing such a high number of laser tattoo removal treatments requires Homeboy Network to have several trained specialists for procedures, and the lasers used in tattoo removal require regular maintenance. As a component of the relationship between Homeboy Network and Astanza Laser, special nonprofit pricing exists so that Homeboy Network can stretch their budget dollars and do more in the communities that they serve.
David Murrell, president of Astanza Laser, will be attending the Homeboy Network Gathering which takes place Sunday, August 6 through Tuesday, August 8th and will be discussing several aspects of laser tattoo removal with non-profits in attendance. Below is additional information about the 2017 Global Homeboy Network Gathering.
The 2017 (4th Annual) Global Homeboy Network Gathering
Welcome Reception:
Sunday, August 6
4:00–7:00 p.m.
Homegirl Café
130 West Bruno Street
Los Angeles California 90012
Light hors d’oeuvres and beverage reception
Global Homeboy Network Gathering:
Monday & Tuesday
August 7 & 8
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The California Endowment
1000 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, California 90012
Breakfast and lunch included with registration (both days)
Workshops topics will include:
- Secure Base
- Homeboy Navigators
- Educational Spaces & Approaches
- Social Entrepreneurial Programs & Development
- Fundraising & Development
- Advocacy
- Case Management and beyond
- Workforce Development
PLEASE NOTE:
Online Registration for the 2017 Global Homeboy Network Gathering opens May 4.
Online Registration will close on Monday, July 31 (6:00 p.m. PST).
