Our Story
In 1999, Steve Kim began his journey of recovery from drug addiction and incarceration. His last memory of incarceration was sitting in a visiting booth staring through glass and unable to hold his baby daughter during a visit. After feeling the weight of shame, he spent years navigating barriers to re-entry in hopes of providing a future for himself and his family. It was at rock bottom he was blessed to encounter numerous individuals who walked him back to life. He went on to obtain a Criminology, Law & Society degree from the University of California, Irvine, and a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California. After hearing Father Greg Boyle from Homeboy Industries speak in one of his classes over 20 years ago, Steve dedicated his life to serving the community as he was helped.
In 2014, Steve Kim connected with Mary Vu a colleague from USC who graciously dedicated 5 years to helping his dream of creating a community-based organization in Orange County that is now part of the Global Homeboy Network. Project Kinship was formed with the mission to provide support and training to lives impacted by incarceration, gangs, and violence through hope, healing, and transformation.
Today, Project Kinship is home to over 70 staff members with backgrounds in mental health, social work, education, law, and formerly incarcerated individuals. We are proud to be a safe haven for thousands of lives who are on the journey of re-entry and healing. Numerous programs and partnerships continue to expand opportunities to serve people on the margins increasing community and public safety in Orange County.
“The heartbeat of Project Kinship holds compassion and inclusion. It’s a place where hope lives and people are reminded they are not a mistake. Something powerful happens as this truth is embraced and people feel their worth.”
Steve Kim