Meet William Freeman | Certified Peer Specialist

We had the good fortune of connecting with William Freeman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi William, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
I define success in two important ways. First, I look at the happiness of my loved ones. My past has taught me to value my family deeply, and knowing they are happy with me is a key measure of my success. Their support and well-being mean everything to me. Second, I assess the progress of my mentees or the people I serve. I consider where they started and where they are now, seeing their growth and positive change. Watching them transform their lives is a rewarding reminder of the impact I aim to have in the world.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
People of Purpose (PoP) is a reentry peer support program focused on helping returning citizens build new lives, supported by those who’ve walked a similar path. Founded to bridge the gap between incarceration and a productive, stable life, PoP offers mentorship, life skills training, and essential resources, empowering individuals as they rebuild. What sets us apart is our commitment to lived experience as the foundation for transformation—each mentor understands the challenges personally, including myself, a returning citizen who spent 14 years incarcerated.

Starting PoP was not easy. There were financial hurdles, societal stigma, and the need to build trust with both participants and community partners. But I turned these challenges into motivation, fueled by my promise to support those seeking positive change. We’re proud of securing grant funding, collaborating with community sponsors, and creating sustainable, impactful services. Our journey has taught us the power of resilience, authenticity, and peer-driven support.

My message to the world is simple: everyone deserves a second chance. PoP isn’t just a program; it’s a movement to show that transformation is possible, and no one has to do it alone.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d create an itinerary that captures both the creative energy and unique charm of the area.

Day 1: We’d kick things off with a morning visit to Ruben Hail Art Museum. Known for its inspiring exhibits, it’s the perfect way to dive into the local art scene and discover new perspectives. For lunch, we’d head to a cozy spot downtown that offers seasonal, locally-sourced dishes. Then, we’d stroll around and catch some live music at a nearby café.

Day 2: The day would be dedicated to nature. A morning hike or bike ride in a nearby park to enjoy some fresh air and beautiful landscapes. For dinner, we’d go to a popular rooftop spot with a great view of the city.

Day 3-4: Time for a creative dive! We’d spend a day at Khanna’s House Studio, where we could explore interactive installations and even participate in a workshop. I’d arrange for a guided tour to learn about the studio’s unique history and connect with the artists. We’d grab lunch at a small family-owned restaurant known for its fusion cuisine.

Day 5: A day to relax, we’d visit a local beach or nearby lake to unwind. A sunset boat ride and some casual seafood by the shore would make for a perfect evening.

Day 6-7: We’d cap off the trip with a tour of some hidden gems: small galleries, vintage shops, and maybe a distillery or two. The week would end with dinner at an upscale spot downtown, where we’d toast to a week full of creativity, relaxation, and exploration.

By combining art, nature, food, and relaxation, this itinerary would make for an unforgettable visit, packed with the best this area has to offer.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
A shout-out is a strong statement, but it’s exactly what I want to give. I have an incredible support system, from family members to over 24 mentors, and each has impacted my journey in a meaningful way. However, I especially want to recognize the Restore Program for its invaluable role in my growth and success. If I were to give individual shout-outs, it would go to people who have stood by me with unwavering support and guidance: Ron D, Bill D, Virginia S, Christine H, Ms. Williams, Arlene U, Chenise B, Nancy M, and Lynn R. Each person has contributed uniquely to my path, offering mentorship, wisdom, and encouragement. This acknowledgment is a heartfelt thank-you to all those who have made a difference in my life.

Website: https://Peopleofpurposefl.org

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