About Us
The Creation Story of West Coast Credible Messengers
West Coast Credible Messengers was founded by Ryan Flaco Rising in response to the tokenization of formerly incarcerated students within higher education. Despite millions of dollars being directed toward these students, they continue to struggle and feel marginalized and are ending up deep in debt and struggling to find employment after college.
Ryan Flaco Rising co-founded the Gaucho Underground Scholars at UCSB, a program at risk of cooptation by administration and another program that is there. Successfully resisting these pressures, he transferred to UC Irvine, where he played a key role in securing $4 million in state funding to support Underground Scholars programs. However, once the funding was secured, individuals who previously claimed to support formerly incarcerated students turned their backs
on them for financial gain.
Inspired by Kendrick Lamar’s sentiment, “they aren’t like us,” Flaco and his allies formed the West Coast Credible Messengers. This organization remains steadfast in its values, focusing on uplifting formerly incarcerated and gang involved individuals, helping them gain employment, and using their lived experiences to empower and transform their communities. Unlike others who may switch allegiances, West Coast Credible Messengers remain loyal to their people and
their neighborhoods.
Our founder, Ryan Flaco Rising, is determined not to let formerly incarcerated individuals be tokenized or used as mere showpieces for funding purposes. Instead, West Coast Credible Messengers is committed to ensuring that funding creates real opportunities for employment and upward mobility for this marginalized and often overlooked population.
The Creation Story of West Coast Credible Messengers
West Coast Credible Messengers was founded by Ryan Flaco Rising in response to the tokenization of formerly incarcerated students within higher education. Despite millions of dollars being directed toward these students, they continue to struggle and feel marginalized and are ending up deep in debt and struggling to find employment after college.
Ryan Flaco Rising co-founded the Gaucho Underground Scholars at UCSB, a program at risk of cooptation by administration and another program that is there. Successfully resisting these pressures, he transferred to UC Irvine, where he played a key role in securing $4 million in state funding to support Underground Scholars programs. However, once the funding was secured, individuals who previously claimed to support formerly incarcerated students turned their backs
on them for financial gain.
Inspired by Kendrick Lamar’s sentiment, “they aren’t like us,” Flaco and his allies formed the West Coast Credible Messengers. This organization remains steadfast in its values, focusing on
uplifting formerly incarcerated and gang involved individuals, helping them gain employment, and using their lived experiences to empower and transform their communities. Unlike others who may switch allegiances, West Coast Credible Messengers remain loyal to their people and
their neighborhoods.
Our founder, Ryan Flaco Rising, is determined not to let formerly incarcerated individuals be tokenized or used as mere showpieces for funding purposes. Instead, West Coast Credible
Messengers is committed to ensuring that funding creates real opportunities for employment and upward mobility for this marginalized and often overlooked population.
Our Story
West Coast Credible Messengers is dedicated to fostering positive change and reducing recidivism by empowering individuals with lived experiences in the prison system to become credible messengers of hope, inspiration, and transformation.
Our vision is a West Coast community where individuals with justice-involved backgrounds are valued for their potential and contributions, where the stigma of incarceration is replaced with opportunities for growth, and where stories of transformation inspire others to make positive life choices.
Our Creation Story:
History of Credible Messengers Programs
The concept of credible messengers has evolved significantly over the years, rooted in the belief that individuals with lived experiences in the criminal justice system can uniquely connect with and positively influence others facing similar challenges. Here’s a brief history of how credible messengers programs have developed:
- Early Roots in Community Intervention: The origins of credible messengers can be traced back to community-based interventions in the early to mid-20th Programs like the Chicago Area Project in the 1930s and New York’s Street Club Project in the 1950s employed “curbside counselors” and detached street workers who engaged directly with at-risk youth in their neighborhoods. These early efforts recognized the importance of peers and community members in addressing delinquency and gang involvement.
- Incarcerated Perspectives and Transformative Mentoring: In the 1980s and 1990s, the concept of credible messengers expanded significantly with the work of Eddie Ellis and others. Ellis, a former Black Panther, advocated for the use of individuals with firsthand experience in the criminal justice system as mentors and guides for youth at risk of incarceration. His transformative mentoring model emphasized empathy, understanding, and personal growth through the mentorship of those who had navigated similar
- Expansion and Formalization: By the early 2000s, credible messengers programs began to formalize within various community organizations, nonprofits, and government These programs integrated credible messengers into juvenile justice systems, schools, and social service settings, recognizing their role in reducing recidivism and promoting rehabilitation. Formal training and support structures were developed to empower credible messengers to effectively engage with their communities and mentor individuals facing similar challenges.
- Neoliberal Challenges and Community Resistance: In recent years, credible messengers programs have faced challenges from neoliberal co-optation and funding pressures that prioritize surveillance and control over community Some initiatives have shifted focus from their original community-based roots to align more closely with law enforcement or probation systems, leading to concerns about authenticity and effectiveness.
- Current Innovations and Future Directions: Despite challenges, innovative credible messengers programs continue to emerge. Initiatives like the West Coast Credible Messengers in California exemplify a return to community-driven principles, focusing on empowerment, education, and systemic change. These programs advocate for policies that support higher education, career development, and genuine community engagement as pathways to long-term rehabilitation and reduced recidivism.
In conclusion, the history of credible messengers programs reflects a dynamic evolution from grassroots community interventions to formalized, sometimes co-opted initiatives within broader systems. Moving forward, maintaining the integrity of these programs through community empowerment and systemic change will be crucial for their continued effectiveness and impact in criminal justice reform.
Our Staff
Ryan Flaco Rising, Executive Director
Ryan Flaco Rising is a transformative leader and an unwavering advocate for formerly incarcerated individuals, currently pursuing his PhD with a focus on social justice and systemic reform. Having experienced the profound challenges of reentry firsthand, Ryan is dedicated to dismantling the numerous barriers that hinder the progress and potential of those who have been incarcerated. His work is marked by a relentless commitment to empowering marginalized voices and fostering genuine community support.
Throughout his journey, Ryan has founded numerous programs aimed at supporting formerly incarcerated individuals. These initiatives provide crucial resources, mentorship, and opportunities for personal and professional growth, helping to break the cycle of recidivism and pave the way for successful reintegration. Ryan’s innovative programs address various aspects of reentry, from educational advancement and job training to mental health support and community building.
Ryan’s advocacy extends beyond program development; he is also a powerful voice for policy change. He tirelessly campaigns for legislative reforms that promote upward mobility for formerly incarcerated individuals, challenging policies that perpetuate inequality and hinder second chances. His work in this area is driven by a deep belief in the potential of every individual to contribute positively to society when given the right support and opportunities.
One of Ryan’s most significant contributions is his effort to restore the Credible Messenger Movement to its original intent. He emphasizes the importance of genuine credibility within neighborhoods that need support, advocating for a movement that is rooted in authentic relationships and community trust. Ryan critiques systems that co-opt the Credible Messenger concept for purposes of social control and surveillance, arguing that these approaches undermine the movement’s true potential. Instead, he champions initiatives that build each other up, fostering solidarity and mutual empowerment rather than tearing each other down for profit.
Ryan’s courage in standing up against oppressive attempts to silence formerly incarcerated voices is commendable. He has consistently confronted and resisted efforts to pacify those demanding change, ensuring that the voices of the marginalized are heard and respected. His leadership is characterized by integrity, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to justice.
As a PhD student, Ryan continues to deepen his understanding of the systemic issues that affect formerly incarcerated individuals. His academic pursuits are closely aligned with his advocacy work, providing a strong foundation for his efforts to create meaningful and lasting change. Ryan Flaco Rising’s dedication to dismantling barriers, advocating for policy reform, and restoring the Credible Messenger Movement’s roots makes him a trailblazer in the fight for justice and equality. His work inspires hope and drives progress, offering a powerful testament to the transformative power of resilience and community support.
Lisandra Barrera, Director
Lisandra Barrera is a dedicated advocate and visionary leader in the movement for social justice and empowerment of formerly incarcerated women. As the founder and Director of The Women’s Empowerment Network, Lisandra has created a vital platform that champions the rights and opportunities of women who have been impacted by the criminal justice system.
Lisandra’s journey is one of resilience and unwavering commitment. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by formerly incarcerated women, she has made it her mission to provide them with the resources, support, and encouragement needed to rebuild their lives and achieve their goals. Her work focuses on fostering a sense of unity and strength among these women, encouraging them to claim their rightful place in society and become active participants in the movement for social change.
One of Lisandra’s key initiatives through The Women’s Empowerment Network is to facilitate access to higher education for formerly incarcerated individuals. Understanding the transformative power of education, she has consistently assisted these women in navigating the complex pathways to academic success. Her efforts have opened doors to new opportunities, enabling many to pursue degrees and vocational training that can lead to fulfilling careers and a better quality of life.
Lisandra’s dedication to this cause is further exemplified by her own academic achievements. She recently completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Policy and Public Service, a testament to her commitment to understanding and addressing the systemic issues that affect marginalized communities. Her education equips her with the knowledge and skills to advocate more effectively for policy changes and program development that support the empowerment of formerly incarcerated women.
In addition to her advocacy work, Lisandra is known for her ability to inspire and motivate others. Her leadership style is characterized by compassion, determination, and an unyielding belief in the potential of every woman she works with. Through workshops, mentoring programs, and public speaking engagements, she shares her message of hope and empowerment, encouraging others to join her in this vital work. Lisandra Barrera’s impact extends beyond the women she directly supports; she is a beacon of change, tirelessly working to create a more just and equitable society. As the Director of The Women’s Empowerment Network, she continues to lead with passion and purpose, making a profound difference in the lives of formerly incarcerated women and their communities.
Philip Dorsett, Director of Academic Credible Messengers Mentoring Program
Philip Dorsett is a dedicated advocate and leader who heads the Academic Credible Messengers Mentoring Program, a pivotal initiative that supports formerly incarcerated individuals in their transition to higher education. Through his work, Philip tirelessly helps these individuals navigate the often complex and intimidating landscape of academic institutions, ensuring they feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed.
Drawing on his own lived experiences, Philip provides invaluable mentorship and guidance to those seeking to further their education after incarceration. His understanding of the unique challenges they face allows him to offer tailored support that addresses both practical and emotional needs, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Currently pursuing his Associate’s Degree, Philip balances his academic pursuits with his commitment to advocacy. He is also the founder of The Collective, an influential initiative that has brokered agreements to end hostilities among street organizations on the West Side of Los Angeles. Through The Collective, Philip has played a crucial role in saving countless lives and promoting peace within communities historically affected by violence and conflict.
Philip’s advocacy extends to the destigmatization of gangs and gang members. Leveraging his own experiences of incarceration and being labeled a gang member, he works to challenge and change the negative perceptions associated with these identities. His credibility and impact in this work are greatly enhanced by his personal journey, which serves as a powerful testament to the possibility of transformation and redemption.
Through his leadership in the Academic Credible Messengers Mentoring Program and The Collective, Philip Dorsett exemplifies the profound difference one individual can make in the lives of many. His dedication to education, peacebuilding, and destigmatization continues to inspire and drive positive change in his community and beyond.
Anthony McDuffie, Jr.: Regional Director of Long Beach, West Coast Credible Messengers
Anthony McDuffie, Jr. is a distinguished Author, Motivational Speaker, Spoken Word Artist, and Certified West Coast Credible Messenger, specializing as a Mental Health First Aider. He is widely known for his memoir, Grit Grind and Glory, which has reached audiences globally, including in the UK, Canada, and Kuwait. After emerging from 15 years in prison, Anthony now shares his transformative story worldwide, inspiring audiences with his message of resilience and empowerment.
Through mentorship, interactive workshops, and motivational speeches, Anthony is dedicated to empowering individuals of all ages to pursue their dreams with focus and a healthy mindset. His second book, My Life in Poetry, features verses penned during his time behind bars, offering a profound glimpse into his journey and experiences.
Anthony’s impactful work has garnered significant attention, leading to features on NPR’s StoryCorps, iHeartRadio, Shout Out LA, Voyage LA, Canvas Rebel magazine, and various podcasts worldwide. These platforms have amplified his message of resilience, empowerment, and personal growth, resonating with diverse audiences.
Currently, Anthony serves as the editor for The Feelings Within, a poetry collection by Robert Grigsby, who has been incarcerated for 50 years for a crime he did not commit. In addition to his literary endeavors, Anthony has immersed himself in the world of TV and film, developing various projects with award-winning actors and producers whose work has been featured on HBO, NBC, and Apple TV.
As the Regional Director of Long Beach for the West Coast Credible Messengers, Anthony
McDuffie, Jr. continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration, using his platform to advocate
for mental health awareness, social justice, and personal transformation.
Elijah Guerra: West Coast Credible Messenger Regional Director of Orange County
Elijah Guerra is a passionate community activist and the Regional Director of Orange County, dedicated to addressing the complexities of gang involvement and advocating for systemic change. Currently in his third year at the University of California, Irvine (UCI), Elijah is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology, Law, and Society, a field that aligns perfectly with his commitment to social justice and community empowerment.
Growing up in environments where gang involvement was a significant part of life, Elijah has a unique and profound understanding of the challenges faced by individuals and communities affected by gang activities. This lived experience fuels his activism and shapes his approach to creating impactful and sustainable change. Elijah leverages his background to connect with gang involved youth and community members, offering guidance, support, and mentorship to those seeking to transform their lives.
As the Regional Director of Orange County, Elijah plays a pivotal role in coordinating initiatives that address the root causes of gang involvement. His work involves collaborating with local organizations, and community leaders to develop and implement strategies that promote safety, education, and opportunities for personal growth. Elijah’s leadership is characterized by his ability to foster strong, trust-based relationships within the community, ensuring that voices often marginalized are heard and valued
At UCI, Elijah excels academically while actively engaging in research and projects related to criminology and social justice. His academic pursuits provide a solid foundation for his advocacy work, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to analyze and address the structural issues contributing to crime and gang involvement. Elijah’s dedication to his studies and his community demonstrates his unwavering commitment to making a positive difference.
Elijah Guerra’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of dedicated activism. His dual role as a student and a community leader allows him to bridge the gap between theory and practice, driving forward initiatives that create real-world change. Elijah continues to inspire those around him with his dedication, vision, and unwavering commitment to building a safer, more just society
Nathan Torres West Coast Credible Messenger Mentor
Nathan Torres is a dedicated community advocate, passionate about promoting unity and preventing unnecessary violence. Growing up without a father and in a single-mother family, Nate faced significant hardships, including periods of homelessness, where he often found himself sleeping in motels and the back of U-Haul trucks. These early challenges shaped his resilience and determination to create a better future for himself and his community.
Tragically, before turning 18, Nate experienced the loss of his sister to gun violence, a heart-wrenching event that profoundly impacted his life. Additionally, his only brother is serving a life sentence in the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). Despite these personal tragedies, Nate’s hardships have fueled his commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.
Chris Fesler Orange County Regional Director of The West Coast Academic Credible Messengers Program
Chris Fesler, born and raised in Orange County, CA, has overcome significant challenges from a young age, including multiple encounters with the criminal justice system. Despite facing adversity, including years in incarceration and personal losses, Chris found inspiration through his grandmother’s influence and pursued rehabilitative programs, earning his GED and entering the construction field after release.
Motivated by his experiences, Chris returned to college to study sociology and criminal justice, aiming to help others avoid similar paths. He is a state-certified peer support specialist and works passionately with organizations like West Coast Credible Messengers, Wound Walk, and The Purpose of Recovery, supporting individuals with substance abuse and advocating for unhoused communities.
Alonzo Harvey: West Coast Credible Messengers Policy Director
Alonzo Harvey, a passionate advocate for racial justice and community empowerment, hails from the South East Side of San Diego, specifically the Lincoln Park neighborhood. Growing up in an environment plagued by systemic injustice, Alonzo’s family was wrongfully targeted by District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis under a discriminatory gang injunction, known as 182.5. This injunction aimed to unjustly incarcerate 33 Black men from South East San Diego for life, solely based on their documentation as gang members. This traumatic experience galvanized the Harvey family into becoming staunch activists, fiercely opposing these baseless charges.
Driven by his lived experiences and a relentless desire for change, Alonzo now serves as the West Coast Credible Messengers Policy Director. In this role, he leverages his background to combat racial profiling and the harmful social construction of labeling Black and Brown individuals as gang members. Alonzo’s mission is to dismantle these prejudiced practices and advocate for fair treatment within the criminal justice system.
Currently finishing his degree at the University of California, Berkeley, Alonzo is actively involved in several research labs. His work at Berkeley focuses on advancing the Racial Justice Act, a pivotal piece of legislation passed in California aimed at addressing racial disparities in the legal system. Through his academic and professional endeavors, Alonzo strives to empower his community and support those who have been unjustly criminalized and attacked by law enforcement.
Alonzo Harvey’s journey from a wrongfully targeted youth to a prominent policy director and advocate is a testament to his resilience and dedication to creating a more equitable society. His efforts continue to inspire and drive positive change in his community and beyond.
Alejandro Cabrera-Maldonado: Academic Credible Messenger Mentor for the West Coast Credible Messengers Orange County Region
Alejandro Cabrera-Maldonado is an inspiring advocate and mentor, currently serving as an Academic Credible Messenger Mentor for the West Coast Credible Messengers in the Orange County region. He is pursuing his Bachelor’s Degree in Chicano/Latino Studies with double minors in Education Sciences and Psychology at UC Irvine, a testament to his dedication to education and his community.
Originally from Boyle Heights, Alejandro also spent a significant part of his youth in the San Gabriel Valley. Growing up in a mixed-status immigrant home and witnessing the incarceration of his brother and friends, as well as his own experiences as a gang member, Alejandro developed a deep commitment to combating mass incarceration and senseless violence. These personal experiences have fueled his passion for advocating for systemic change and supporting those affected by similar struggles.
In his role with the West Coast Credible Messengers, Alejandro leverages his background and education to provide mentorship and guidance to formerly incarcerated individuals, helping them transition to higher education and reintegrate into society. His lived experiences give him a unique perspective and credibility, enabling him to connect with and inspire those he mentors.
Alejandro’s commitment to his community extends beyond his work with the West Coast Credible Messengers. He is also actively involved with The Peoples Cafe, an organization dedicated to combating food and housing insecurity. Through this role, he works tirelessly to uplift the community he once played a role in breaking apart, demonstrating his dedication to restorative justice and community healing.
Alejandro Cabrera-Maldonado’s journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a dedicated community advocate and academic mentor highlights the transformative power of education and resilience. His work continues to make a significant impact, providing hope and support to those navigating the complexities of reentry and striving for a better future.
