About the Founder
Mechille P. Johnson
Mechille P. Johnson is the Founder and CEO of Chances 4 Change, Inc., where her personal journey through incarceration, addiction, and homelessness drives her commitment to supporting justice-involved citizens. With a BA in Social Work and an AA in Psychology, Mechille is dedicated to breaking the cycle of recidivism and housing instability. She established the Chances 4 Change-Entry Resource Center, a comprehensive hub offering evidence-based reintegration services, including case management, employment preparation, housing stabilization, and peer mentoring. Through her initiatives, Mechille empowers justice-involved citizens, returning to South Los Angeles to reclaim their lives with dignity, stability, and opportunity.
Mission
Our mission is to promote the health, economic stability, and civic engagement of
justice-involved and at-risk individuals in South Los Angeles, regardless of their history
within the justice system, race, gender, sexual orientation, or religious beliefs.
Vision
To ensure that justice-involved citizens in South Los Angeles have full and equal access to
opportunities that enable them to lead healthy; productive lives, reduce recidivism, and
improve public safety.
Los Angeles County Social Enterprise (SE) Certification
As a certified Social Enterprise, Chances 4 Change is recognized for its efforts to
create social impact through job readiness programs and reintegration services.
This accreditation positions the organization as a trusted provider of
employment-focused services, making it an attractive partner for businesses and
funders prioritizing social responsibility.
California Department of Housing ; Community Development (HCD):
Chances 4 Change is accredited by the California Department of Housing;
Community Development, affirming its compliance with state standards in
providing housing services and support for homeless and at-risk populations.
This certification is essential for accessing state funding and participating in
housing-related initiatives, which enhances the organization's ability to provide
stable housing for participants.
