La La Anthony: A Star Making an Impact Beyond Hollywood
La La Anthony has built a reputation for being not just an actress and television personality, but also a philanthropist deeply invested in social causes. During her recent appearance on “Sherri,” she shed light on a project that resonates profoundly with her heart—her nonprofit initiative, the ThreeSixty Program, designed for prison reform and re-entry support for young men.
ThreeSixty Program: A Heartfelt Initiative
La La shared that the ThreeSixty Program was born out of her desire to assist incarcerated youth, specifically on Rikers Island. Launched about three years ago, its mission is to equip these young men with skills and support that will enable them to reintegrate into society successfully. “We meet them where they are, allowing them to look toward the future with more than just hope,” she explained.
Through the program, La La and her team provide far more than temporary aid. They focus on comprehensive job training, mentorship, and self-esteem building. Each participant is armed with the tools needed to navigate the challenges of life post-incarceration. “When they come out, we help them get great jobs, housing, clothing—whatever they need,” she emphasized, underscoring the program’s success.
Real Stories of Transformation
While La La’s vision for ThreeSixty is inspiring, the logistics of the program are grounded in tangible results. One notable story is that of 22-year-old Tylik Thomas, who recently emerged from Rikers Island after serving time for a non-violent gun charge. His transformation was documented in various reports, showcasing the real impact of La La’s hard work.
What sets ThreeSixty apart is its unique ability to restore dignity in a place often associated with hopelessness and despair. The work done here transcends statistics; it is about human lives being altered for the better.
A Passionate Commitment
During her conversation with Sherri Shepherd, La La expressed her unwavering commitment to the cause. “It’s my life passion. It’s my life’s work,” she stated, highlighting her determination to challenge the societal tendency to write off these young men. La La acknowledges that many of their decisions are deeply influenced by their environments and lack of opportunities.
In addition to job training, participants also receive legal support and re-entry skills, helping them return to their neighborhoods without reverting to past patterns. “You’re back in the same environment, but you’re not the same person,” she articulated, emphasizing the transformative power of the program.
The Ripple Effect: Real Change in Action
The effects of the ThreeSixty Program were palpably felt when an alumnus, Michael Rondo Bonilla, spoke at the “Sherri” event. Crediting the initiative with changing his life, Bonilla—a now-successful organizer with REFORM—shared how La La’s consistent presence made all the difference. “When La first started coming, she kept on coming,” he said, capturing the essence of commitment and mentorship that the program fosters.
Bonilla’s journey did not stop with his release; he successfully secured a scholarship to Columbia University, demonstrating the upward trajectory that support and guidance can provide. He emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities, especially when someone genuinely cares about your growth.
Beyond a Talking Point: A Pragmatic Approach
In an era where prison reform is often reduced to mere discussions, La La Anthony’s ThreeSixty Program is a potent counter-narrative. It goes beyond just helping young men return home; it actively prepares them with a strategic plan for a brighter future. Above all, it ensures they have a support system rooting for their success, underscoring the essence of community in transformative growth.