Breaking Chains Academy Family

Luis Granados
​Executive Director

Luis, raised in a challenging environment marked by gangs and violence, faced a tumultuous upbringing. However, with the guidance of mentors during this period, he managed to break free from the self-destructive path he was on. Inspired by those who supported him in his journey, Luis developed a profound and sincere passion for helping others.
Having graduated from OG's BAD (Breaking Chains Academy) with his GED/HSE in 2006, Luis transformed his life. In 2013, he joined the program as a Tutor/Mentor, leveraging his personal experiences to make a positive impact on the lives of youth facing similar challenges. His dedication and commitment were evident, leading to his appointment as the Executive Director in 2018.
Luis utilizes both his firsthand experience and acquired knowledge to guide and support young individuals trapped in destructive lifestyles. His transformative journey has not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by the numerous accolades he has received. In 2020, he was honored as the Youth Mentor of The Year by the Idaho Press, followed by the 2021 Lights Afterschool Champion recognition from the Idaho Out-of-School Network. In 2023, KTVB 7 honored him as a 7’s Hero, while Idaho News 6 awarded him with the Shine A Light award.
Luis stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration, illuminating paths toward brighter futures in his community.

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Joseph "Joey" Veliz
Youth Mentor/Tutor
(Pastor in Residence)
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​Joey graduated from Northwest Nazarene University in Nampa, Idaho with a bachelor’s degree in 2022.
Originally from central Washington, Nampa quickly reminded Joey of home. Growing up when times
were tough, other “at-risk youth” cared for Joey and looked after him. During this time, Joey saw real
love, loyalty, and resilience in kids that were often labeled as troubled. Years later, Joey now has the
opportunity to share that same love with the students of BCAD as a mentor/tutor.

Shayla Hoskins
Program Coordinator 
Shayla graduated from Nampa High School in Nampa, Idaho. After graduation, Shayla enrolled at the College of Western Idaho where she completed her associate degree in 2016. Shayla then attended
Boise State University and graduated in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in education. Shayla is currently working on obtaining her master’s degree in education at Boise State University. From a young age, Shayla knew that she wanted to work in the classroom with students to help lead them to success. As the Education Coordinator, Shayla assists the students in preparing to take their GED exams as well as planning for their future after graduation. Outside of class, Shayla plans activities for the students to participate in, such as various crafts and field trips.

John-Carl Granados 
​Meal Coordinator/Youth Mentor

​John-Carl is a dedicated Youth Mentor with a remarkable journey of transformation. A former gang member turned student, John-Carl began his involvement with the O.G’s BAD (Breaking Chains Academy) program in 2002 during its affiliation with the Boys & Girls Club. Despite facing numerous challenges, he persevered and earned his GED/HSE in 2006. John-Carl brings a wealth of life experience to his role as a mentor and meal coordinator. His passion lies in guiding and supporting students who may be navigating similar struggles to those he once encountered. By openly sharing his own experiences and offering invaluable mentoring assistance, he aspires to empower young individuals to make positive choices and conquer obstacles in their lives.

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Our Board

My name is Kenton Lee, and I am a lifelong resident of Nampa.  My wife and I have two awesome kids.  I work with a local nonprofit called Because International.  And I am honored to be on the board of Breaking Chains and support this amazing cause.

Jean Mutchie is the west Treasure Valley community health manager for St. Luke’s Health System. She has been working in the healthcare industry for more than 20 years, and 18 of those have been spent in various capacities within St. Luke’s. Jean’s work focuses on community health initiatives that impact where we live, learn, work, play, pray and age.
 
Jean is a current Nampa City Council member, a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation fellow, and is a co-founder of the Idaho Resilience Project and 2C Kids Succeed. Both initiatives are community driven collaboratives with cross-sector partners working together to build healthy and resilient communities.
 
Jean completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Idaho and earned her MBA from Western Governors University.

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History of Breaking Chains Academy of Development, Inc.

Story coming soon