Read My Story
I’ve walked the hard road… now I’m here to guide others to a better one.
How It Started — My Early Life in the Streets
I was just 14 when I stepped into a world I thought was power, respect, and family. I grew up in a good home with loving parents who worked hard to raise me right — but I wanted more, and I wanted it fast.
It started small, selling marijuana, but it quickly escalated to cocaine and a deeper role in gang life. The money came quick, and so did the danger.
By the late 70s, I was deep in gang life — not just hanging around, but living it full force. From 1979 to 1995, the streets were my reality. I rose fast, running with some of the most feared crews, dealing cocaine, and making choices that could have ended my life or someone else’s in an instant.
At my peak, I was a high-level gang member, respected in the wrong ways, feared for all the wrong reasons. I’ve been shot six times, carry a bullet in my spine, and was even grazed between the eyes by a bullet — proof of just how close I came to losing it all.
The violence, the drugs, the constant survival mode — it was a trap I didn’t even realize I was in.
Looking back, I see how easy it is for young people to get pulled in… and how hard it is to get out.
My Turning Point — Choosing Change and Helping Others
Even while still caught in the streets, I began to see the damage around me — in my community, in the young people who were walking the same path I was on.
In 1990, I made the choice to start giving back, reaching out to youth who needed someone to guide them away from gangs, drugs, and destructive choices.
It wasn’t easy — leaving behind the life I knew meant facing doubts, fear, and the challenge of rebuilding myself from the ground up. But I was determined to turn my story into something better.
The journey was full of obstacles, but every step away from that life strengthened my commitment. I learned that change isn’t just about leaving the past behind — it’s about building something new and meaningful.
In 1993, I founded the I Care Youth Foundation to create a safe space for kids and young adults, offering mentorship, guidance, and hope for a brighter future.
That foundation became my mission — and the start of a new path for me and those I serve.
In 2022, I became the first XFelon college basketball coach in the state of Nevada — marking a powerful turning point in my journey.
Today, My Life is a Testament to Change and Success
Now, after over 30 years of dedication and hard work, I live a life I’m proud of — balanced, healthy, and fulfilled. I’ve built a successful business, nurtured a loving family, and enjoy every day with gratitude and purpose.
But more importantly, I continue to give back by helping others find their way out of the struggles I once faced.
I’m especially proud when I see the young men and women I’ve mentored step into their own success stories. Watching my mentees graduate, build careers, and lead positive lives reminds me why this work matters so deeply. Their victories are my greatest reward.
Through speaking engagements, one-on-one coaching, and the ongoing efforts of the I Care Youth Foundation, I stay committed to inspiring hope, teaching resilience, and breaking cycles of violence and addiction.
My journey is proof that change is possible — no matter where you start.
Decades of service, leadership — proven results
My Achievements That Speak Volumes
300+ Lives Changed
Countless young men and women guided away from gangs, drugs, and destructive paths.
30+ Years of Mentorship
Decades of commitment shaping futures through personal coaching and community outreach.
Founder of I Care Youth Foundation (1993)
Creating safe spaces and opportunities for youth and adults alike.
Renowned Inspirational Speaker
Trusted voice in schools, community centers, and justice programs nationwide.
Placed Numerous Student Athletes in College
Helping young athletes secure scholarships and build better futures.
Partnered with Juvenile Justice & Community Programs
Collaborating to expand impact and provide support where it’s needed most.
Changing Lives, One Story at a Time
The true measure of my work isn’t in numbers — it’s in the lives transformed. Here are just a few powerful stories from the young men and women who have walked the path from struggle to success.
David Wayne Rice
American Basketball Head Coach
Harvey Perry, Sr. Experienced nutritionist, fitness & strength expert, and inspirational mentor to so many demographics. Starts with he knows. Continues quickly to he genuinely cares. I’ve known him as a difference maker for 20+ years and his drive to positively impact others has never been stronger.
Kevin D. Crockrom
Life Coach & Public Speaker
Harvey Perry Sr. has been a mentor, friend, and guiding light in my life, helping me reach college, grow as a man, and achieve more than I ever imagined.
Memories of Early Days in the News
Over the years, my story has been shared in local newspapers and interviews, shedding light on the challenges I faced and the hope I now bring to the community. These memories remind me of how far we’ve come — and the work that still lies ahead.
Let’s Change Lives Together
Whether you’re looking for powerful coaching, impactful speaking events, or ways to support a mission that changes futures — I’m here to walk this journey with you.
Together, we can build stronger communities and brighter lives.
It’s never too late to changing your life…