It was during this period of incarceration that José learned of The Unusual Suspects and, through participation in one of US’ theatre workshops, found hope in a new kind of family. “It was something amazing that I never had in my hood. When I signed up for Unusual Suspects I felt like it was the beginning of my dream, my chance,” he remembers.  

José played an important role in the creation of the original play These Shoes are Made for Playing. He's incredibly proud that he created two characters, Dice and Lucky. It was through the imagining of these characters that José began to see what he had to offer the world. “The characters were a lot like me, funny, active and skillful,” he says.  

When José was released early from Camp Gonzales he vowed to change his life. He began to believe in the possibilities that were before him and, as a result, obtained his GED, enrolled in courses at El Camino College and got a job. He was thrilled when, fifteen years after coming to the United States, he was awarded citizenship.  

Last month, José traveled to Washington D.C. to represent US when they were awarded the prestigious Coming Up Taller award by First Lady Laura Bush at the White House.   “We selected José to represent US at The White House because he has truly changed his life around for the positive,” comments Priscilla Jaworski, US Managing Director.  “José represents the hope in all of us and is a true testament to the resiliency of our youth when given positive opportunities. We’re so proud of José, for the things he has overcome, but moreover for the man he wants to be.  His transformation has truly been electrifying.” 

“If it weren’t for The Unusual Suspects, I would be dead or in prison,” José says.  When asked what he thinks was the most important thing he learned from working with US,  Jose thinks for a second and then says something maybe a little unexpected.  “To be patient. Something spectacular is going to happen in your life- just wait for it.”