Founder

William Freeman, CEO & Founder of People of Purpose ​William Freeman had the idea to create People of Purpose while he was incarcerated. At this time, William reevaluated his life choices and knew that he never wanted to go back to prison. Instead, he wanted to become a productive member of society and a leader in his community. As he navigated his own road to reentry, he recognized that some of the major needs in this journey were almost impossible to overcome alone. As such, he was determined to create People of Purpose with the goal of helping others avoid the pitfalls that he encountered and close the door on recidivism. While in prison, William acquired over 30 certifications, including Thinking for a Change cognitive behavioral programming, Commercial Driver’s License, Forklifting, and Parenting. He gained advanced leadership and public speaking skills through Toastmasters, which allowed him to become a motivational speaker who is passionate about reforming the criminal justice system. After his release from prison, William became a specially trained Peer Specialist to help himself and other people who have a criminal history become fully functioning, self-sufficient citizens. He is also a member of the Glades Leadership Initiative, Member of the Peer Support Coalition of Florida, Nonprofits First Leadership Academy, and Advisory Member on the Palm Beach County Reentry Task Force.​