A Speaker Students Actually Listen To

Leonardo Lechuga is available to speak to at-risk youth at schools, youth organizations, conferences, and community events — in Georgia and nationwide. His message lands because it isn’t theory. He lived the gang life, lived the addiction, did the prison time — and rebuilt his life. Students who tune out lectures listen to Leonardo, because he keeps it real and he’s been where they are.

Speaking Topics

  • Gangs — Leonardo delivers a powerful message about the dangers and risks of associating with gangs and gang members. He details the lies and deceptive practices used to influence kids to follow the lifestyle, shares his experiences as a gang member and all of the sacrifices he made by being in a gang — and makes clear that the only end result will not be good.
  • Drugs & Addiction — Leonardo experienced drug addiction and shares his story in a powerful way to emphasize the deadly path drug addiction can take. He shares the dangers of drug dealing, the addictive nature of drugs, and the drug lifestyle.
  • Choices & Consequences — Leonardo offers solutions that are realistic. Anyone, from any background or past, can come out of it successfully if they choose to act before it’s too late. Leonardo shares his path and his road to success — and offers hope to those who think there is none.

Talks can also be tailored for teachers, parents, and staff on the influences at-risk kids are facing and how to reach them.

For Universities & Criminal Justice Programs

Leonardo’s talks are also built for the classroom: for over seven years he has spoken to criminology students at Aurora University — future probation officers, social workers, and law-enforcement professionals — on how a kid gets from the street to the cell, and what actually helps him not go back. Faculty can book a class visit or a larger session for criminal justice, social work, and sociology programs.

How Booking Works

  1. Send an inquiry using the form below, by email at leonardo@wordinthehood.com, or by phone at (630) 301-1743.
  2. We’ll confirm the details — date, audience, and format — and discuss the speaking fee and travel arrangements for your event.
  3. Leonardo shows up ready to give your students a talk they won’t forget.

Fees & Availability

Every event is different, so Leonardo’s fee is quoted per event. The fee is based on the type of event, the number of sessions, and the travel distance from Dalton, Georgia. For out-of-area events, the host also covers travel and lodging.

To check availability and get an exact quote, send your event date, location, audience size, and budget — use the inquiry list below, email leonardo@wordinthehood.com, or call (630) 301-1743.

Booking Inquiry

    Prefer email or phone? leonardo@wordinthehood.com · (630) 301-1743

    Word in the Hood is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 82-2904512). Can’t bring Leonardo in this year? Donations and sponsorships help put his message in front of students whose schools can’t afford it.