Wrong to Strong
THE WALK HOMESTARTS HERE.
Wrong to Strong helps individuals and families rebuild their lives after incarceration, addiction, trauma, and adversity. Real programs. Real community. Real results.
As Seen On
Featured on National Television
Julio's story has been documented by three respected national television networks.
National Geographic
Locked Up Abroad: Narco Neverland
Season 15 · Premiered October 5, 2022
Julio Cesar Almanza's life is the focus of this National Geographic documentary. The episode follows his journey from growing up on the South Side of Chicago, to becoming involved with a Mexican drug cartel, surviving prison in Mexico, and ultimately finding redemption and purpose after his release.
LEARN MORE ON NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC
REELZ
Gangsters: America's Most Evil
Season 6, Episode 5 · "La Barbie"
Julio Almanza appears in the REELZ documentary series Gangsters: America's Most Evil, providing firsthand insight into cartel operations, the consequences of organized crime, and the transformation that led him to dedicate his life to helping others avoid the same path.
LEARN MORE ON REELZ
Travel Channel
The Dead Files — "Victimville"
Season 14, Episode 1 · Aired January 2, 2021
Julio Cesar Almanza appeared in The Dead Files as part of the investigation featured in "Victimville." The episode follows investigators Steve DiSchiavi and Amy Allan as they examine reported paranormal activity connected to a home in Victorville, California. Julio contributes firsthand perspective as part of the documented events surrounding the case.
LEARN MORE ON TRAVEL CHANNELInstitutional Trust
Trusted by Organizations Creating Real Change
Wrong to Strong has been invited inside correctional facilities, universities, government agencies, and community organizations across the country.
The Man Behind the Mission
From the Streets to the Screen to the Mission
Julio Almanza turned 17 years of gang life into a lifetime of service.
Julio grew up in the streets of Chicago, spent years inside the criminal justice system, and made a choice that changed everything. Today he leads Wrong to Strong — taking that lived experience inside prisons, schools, and communities to show others that transformation is possible. National Geographic documented his story. ASU partnered with his mission. Over 104 five-star reviews confirm the impact.
The Numbers Don't Lie
Impact by the Numbers
What We Do
Programs That Change Lives
From maximum-security prisons to youth leadership academies — every program is built on lived experience and proven results.
Where Do You Belong?
Find Your Place
Wrong to Strong is more than a program — it is an ecosystem built for transformation. Find where you belong.
The Walk Home Starts Here
Ready to Start the Walk Home?
Whether you're rebuilding your own life, booking Julio to speak, or supporting the mission — the next step starts here.