Jose "Pepe" Amaya - Raza Report

Before long, Pepe found himself incarcerated yet again, due to the choices he made to get involved with selling drugs and participating in gang violence and activities. It was this fateful prison stint that changed Pepe for good, as he opened his mind to God's message of salvation and purpose, and felt compelled to make something good come out of the troublesome life he had been leading. Finally released from prison in 1971, he made a commitment to help the youth of East LA. He knew that with his own experience and knowledge, he would be able to effectively reach out to many troubled teens. Pepe also decided to attend college, and did so, thanks to a program that was sponsored by the Y.M.C.A. He was able to attend Webster College in Washington DC, where he majored in Social Work and Mental health. He also attended many lectures at Howard University and received training in the Bronx, New York at the Frank Garcia Rehabilitation Center, where he received many certificates for his work and ideas.

Pepe soon dedicated his life to community service. He worked as an alcohol and drug counselor as the Director at Pueblito de Maravilla. Pepe also volunteered as the Director of the Soap Box Derby through Cleland House of E.L.A, along with the help of Al Hernandez from Coca-Cola, who sponsored the events. With constant support from current President and CEO of TELACU, Dr. David C. Lizarraga, he also worked as a youth group coordinator at Casa Maravilla, volunteered at Campus Community Center affiliated with E.L.A College, and donated time to the Y.M.C.A Eastside Boys Club.

Now retired, he continues to volunteer his time and experiences to his community. He is a proud member of Old Timers of Southern California. He is also involved with organizing the Maravilla Historical Society, ultimately hoping to declare the handball court he once worked at as a historical site.

Pepe believes a person can overcome anything with commitment, faith, God, and a higher education. He is a shining example of that statement himself, and offers up this mantra whenever he is asked for advice; "We must strive to move forward, no matter what obstacle comes our way!" Well said, Pepe.

By Mike Landers

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