Gerardo Lopez grew up in gang territory in Los Angeles, California and was just 14 years old when he joined the MS-13 gang. Why did he join and why did he leave? In his TEDx talk (of over 5 Million views!) titled "I was an MS-13 gang member. Here's how I got out." Gerardo reveals how we can help others get out and stay out of gangs. Gerardo "Clever" Lopez has worked in gang intervention for over two decades. Gerardo escaped gang life and now ensures that at-risk youth from making the same mistakes. He is Executive Director of the Denver chapter of Homies Unidos, a nonprofit dedicated to ending violence and promoting peace through gang intervention and prevention.
2017-Present, Gerardo was Mayoral appointed as a Commissioner for the Denver Office of Strategic Partnerships.
2018- Gerardo was Mayoral appointed to Denver's Police Chief Search Committee, to search, identify and interview candidates for that position.
2018-Present, Gerardo joined Denver's District Attorney's, Law Enforcement and Community Relations Council.
2018- Faculty for the Administration Office of the U.S. Courts & presented at the Federal Death Penalty Strategy session for Defense Attorneys.
2019- Faculty for the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts and presented at the Fifth Annual Symposium on Race and Ethnicity for Defense Attorneys.
2000- Mayor appointed for the selection committee in Denver's search for a new Sheriff.
2022-Present, Denver Human Rights and Community Partnership Commissions Public safety Commitee.
