Rafael F. Tapia Jr.
Vice President of Programs
Partnership with Native Americans
Phoenix, AZ USA
“Through helping others, I help myself.”
Videos
By Roadtrip NationRafael F. Tapia Jr.
Milestones
My road in life has taken me all over.
I grew up around family members that were immersed in the drug trade—I started helping out with the business as a child.
I had spent time in the juvenile justice system as a kid.
When I was 19 years old, I was facing 25 years to life for bank robbery—I knew there had to be a better way of life, but I felt stuck in this lifestyle.
I qualified for a Youth Offender Parole Hearing and was ultimately able to go to an inpatient treatment facility rather than stay in prison.
I changed my mindset and my lifestyle, built a support system, and navigated reentry.
I’ve since dedicated my life to public service and helping others.
I currently work as the vice president of programs for Partnership with Native Americans, which provides resources to improve the quality of life for Native Americans.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Certification/License
Economic Development
University of Oklahoma
Economic Development
University of Oklahoma
Career
Vice President of Programs
I lead all program activities for a nonprofit focused on improving the quality of life for Native Americans.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Non-Profit Organizations
Government
Helping People
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Peers:
"What's your hustle? You see the light now? You've gotten soft."
Challenges I Overcame
Death and Loss
Drugs / Addiction
Formerly Incarcerated
Interviewed By
Being Free
Formerly incarcerated people find purpose
