We had the good fortune of connecting with Richard A Chacon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Richard, every day, we talk about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
Like every business idea, it should fulfill a need and provide value. Mine was birthed from personal experience. I, Founder and CEO of CONVICTED GENTLEMEN, INC., was released from Arizona’s Department of Corrections in August 2018. The transition from prison to becoming a contributing member of society is no easy task. “We” as convicted felons face many obstacles on our path to success; one of which is lack of meaningful opportunity. Some are unfamiliar but, upon being released from prison, there are many requirements you must abide by to satisfy parole stipulations and, in the event you fail to meet these expectations, they will send you back to prison.

The main requirements are stable housing and employment. To understand how difficult this is, you must first go back to an inmates prison term. While serving time, we often rely on family and friends for support. It is here the real problem begins. We often burn our bridges due to loved ones feeling used and unappreciated and, as a result, our support systems are severed. Without those support systems, and few job and housing opportunities available to felons, how are we supposed to succeed? That is where I birthed this brainchild known as CONVICTED GENTLEMEN®. The concept is simple, we create opportunities.

To do this, we offer our support in the form of employment opportunity to convicted felons and, simultaneously offer credit restoration services via certified credit experts. With stable employment and a good credit profile, we are then able to assist our “congēnts” with mortgage loan approvals. It is at this point they discover stability. For those interested in more, we offer the credit equity partnership program which can generate an additional stream of income. To explain it simply: We assist with starting a business, helping leverage credit to fund it and, provide support in any area in-between.

The byproducts can often outweigh the intention. In this scenario, it is not uncommon to see families reconnect, crime rates reduce, recidivism rates decrease, homelessness prevention, and even sobriety. It’s amazing how purpose can produce change if we are just willing to put in the work.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Convicted Gentlemen® is an ideal. A way of life which can never be attained but, to which we should always strive. Our successes only correlation is significance. This program is not limited to just felons. Our mission is to give those who lack it opportunity and, in doing so, make our communities better for it.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
This is all about perspective. Different people possess different cultures. The thing I love about Arizona is we have plenty of culture. I personally skydive every weekend. Some wouldn’t find that appealing but, the diversity of people you meet there is refreshing. Skydive Arizona Eloy is the spot people from all over the world come to experience. I’ve met different people from all walks of life there. It is the most accepting place I’ve ever experienced; everyone is just there to let go and enjoy themselves. The smile each and every person has on their face the moment they touch land is beautiful to witness. For that brief moment, they are truly free… and it shows.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are many that deserve recognition but, this one goes to everyone who has sacrificed for not just this but, any business. Building a business requires commitment; the same level of commitment that our relationships require and, to see it through to fruition, we often have to take that time and attention away from our loved ones. Your sacrifices aren’t overlooked and, we appreciate each and every one of y’all.

Website: www.convictedgentlemen.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/convictedgentlemen/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/convictedgentlemen

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.