Mission Statement


At GURU, our mission is to support individuals transitioning from incarceration back into society by providing the tools, guidance, and community necessary for successful reintegration and long-term personal growth.

As a nonprofit organization, we are committed to breaking the cycle of recidivism by helping returning citizens reclaim their agency, rebuild their lives, and reconnect with their communities. We provide tailored mentorship, life skills training, and wraparound services that are responsive to the realities of reentry and grounded in dignity and respect.

Our vision is a world where returning citizens are not defined by their past, but by their potential. We believe every person deserves the opportunity to rise, contribute, and belong. Through compassion, consistency, and community, we are building bridges that lead to lasting freedom and transformation.

Services

A life coach engaging with a client in a supportive and encouraging environment, discussing goals and strategies for personal development. The scene is set in a bright, modern office space.
Personalized Life Coaching Sessions
Our programs are designed to support and empower formerly incarcerated individuals through comprehensive reentry services that promote personal growth, restore dignity, and foster successful reintegration into society.
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A mentor and mentee engaged in a discussion, sharing insights and experiences in a relaxed and informal setting. The image conveys trust and mutual respect.
Guidance Through Mentorship Programs
Connect with experienced mentors who provide guidance, support, and encouragement. Our mentorship programs foster personal growth and help participants navigate challenges effectively.
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A group of individuals participating in an employment skills training workshop, learning and collaborating on job search strategies and interview techniques. The atmosphere is engaging and interactive.
Skills Training To Unlock Potential
Our employment skills training workshops cover essential topics such as job search strategies, interview preparation, and workplace etiquette. Gain practical skills that enhance your employability.
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Business & New Entrepreneur Training
Empower and equip yourself with knowledge and skills needed to jumpstart and grow your business through our comprehensive entrepreneurship workshops.

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Impact Stories

"V has been a life-saver, his entrepreneurship workshop gave me the confidence and skills I needed to launch my own business. I'm now a successful small business owner and on track to living the life of my dreams. Thank you V."
Mohit K.
Mohit K.
"Last year, I struggled with finding my purpose. The coaching program at GURU helped me narrow my goals and create a plan to achieve them. I'm in debt to V for helping me tap my potential. Highly recommend if you find yourself at similar crossroads."
Frank G.
Frank G.
"The employment skills training I received at GURU was invaluable. I learned how to write a compelling resume and ace job interviews. I'm now employed in a job I love."
Jess M.
Jess M.

Our Story

Founded in 2023, G*U*R*U was born out of decades of firsthand experience, compassion, and an unshakable belief in human potential.

V. Rajkumar’s education and early career took him down the path of public service – first earning a Bachelor’s degree in International Affairs, then serving as a State Probation Officer for 14 years and a Police Officer for 11 years. Now a retired law enforcement and probation officer, V. Rajkumar has spent a lifetime committed to the safety and betterment of surrounding communities. Working on the front lines, especially with individuals navigating the challenges of reentry, he witnessed a powerful truth—transformation is possible, but only when people are given the right tools, support, and belief in their worth.

Too often, individuals returning from incarceration are met with closed doors, limited opportunities, and a system that sees their past more than their potential. That’s where G*U*R*U comes in. By providing the mindset, skills, and community support they need to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

 

Re-Entry Success Curriculum: The Path to Purpose and Freedom

 

V. Rajkumar is a Registered Behavioral Technician who has developed a unique approach that incorporates Applied Behavior Analysis into the curriculum:

Overarching Goal: To equip individuals recently released from incarceration with the behavioral, vocational, and social skills necessary to thrive in civil society, secure meaningful employment, and prevent re-offense, fostering a life of dignity and contribution.

Core Philosophy: Every individual possesses the capacity for growth and positive change. Through structured support, clear expectations, and consistent reinforcement, we can empower them to build a new, fulfilling life. Our work is a journey of co-creation, where we guide and support, but they walk the path.

“Our curriculum, delivered with compassion, consistency, and a deep understanding of behavioral science, offers a robust framework for assisting individuals re-entering society. My spiritual Hindu beliefs emphasize dharma (righteous conduct) and karma (action and consequence), aligning perfectly with the principles of behavior modification – that through conscious effort and positive action, one can shape their destiny. By empowering these individuals with tangible skills and fostering a renewed sense of self-worth, we can truly help them write a new, meaningful chapter in their lives, preventing re-offense and building stronger communities.”

– V. Rajkumar

V. Rajkumar, RBT

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