Hi. My name’s Rick.
I’m an iOS software Developer with an unusual background. I went to prison at 18. I was a senior in high school. I was involved in a street fight and stabbed a man who later died at the hospital. It was a horrible decision by a foolish teenager.
I thought I was protecting my friends, but the truth is, I was simply a fool acting irrationally in the heat of the moment. I wish I could undo that night but I can’t. I haven’t been in trouble since but obviously that fateful decision has shaped my life.
In prison I discovered that I liked programming. It kinda save me by giving me a life and career I probably couldn’t have in many other industries. Since I was hired as a developer, I’ve been teaching others from similar backgrounds in hopes that it does the same for them.
Out of that interest grew a passion project turned non-profit called Underdog Devs that helps the formerly incarcerated become software engineers. For many getting out, there are obstacles that make reintegration difficult.
With a skill and a potential career, the odds of acclimating back to the society as a productive member are greatly increased. If you are interested in helping us through mentoring/pair programming, financially sponsoring mentees, or some other form of support, reach out. If you are looking for skilled diverse developers, reach out.
We’ve done the vetting and training process for you. These developers are gritty, smart, and overlooked. Web, iOS and Android. There is no placement fee. We do ask that you consider sponsoring the next cohort though.
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