DALLAS — Leon Theodore calls himself a social architect.

“For me, it’s all about building relationships. Relational capital is what really drives the world,” Theodore said. “You can get more done in a relationship than you can with any amount of money or knowledge.”

The Florida native is a hustler, doing what’s necessary to accomplish a goal. At one point in his life, that goal wasn’t always legal.

“Around 13 or 14 is when I turned to something not so positive, but I’ve always been one who has done both sides, a foot in both worlds,” Theodore said.

Theodore was always a smart kid. He would go to school, keep a job, but hustle on the side.

“I went to college, but the mischievous part turned into rebelliousness,” Theodore explained.

 By his mid-30s, Theodore was in and out of jail.

“Going in, bailing out,” he said.

After a longer stint in jail, Theodore was fed up with some of his life choices.

“That’s what drove me. I just didn’t want to be a criminal anymore,” Theodore recalled. ”It takes a lot to change how you’ve lived. Habits don’t change right away.”

Theodore was determined. He moved to Texas, but like many formerly incarcerated people, he struggled to find work or housing.

“Someone at Dallas Country Club gave me a break,” he said.

Sometimes that’s all it takes. The opportunity allowed Theodore to propel his life in the direction he wanted. He went back to school, got his social work license and finished his bachelor’s degree. He eventually completed a master’s program at East Texas A&M University.

“They offered me a job teaching, which is crazy to me,” Theodore said with a smile. “Now I’m an adjunct professor.”

The 56-year-old is using his life experience to help other formerly incarcerated people re-enter society. Theodore is all about creating a positive culture. Not just for those who are formerly incarcerated, but for the community that will accept them once they return to society.

His nonprofit, Destination Known Academy, focuses on helping youth find their place in the world. Theodore wants kids to know they have value within their communities and on a global scale.

“Destination Known is about understanding. This is where I want to go, and you can make a plan and follow through on that plan,” Theodore said.  

Theodore was hesitant to share his story but agreed because he views it as a responsibility or a calling. He wants people to know they’re valuable.

“It’s OK to know your faults,” Theodore said. “But it’s better to know that you can change from your past.”