About Us
The Compass Project, Inc. was founded by Juan Carlos Diaz (also known as Carlos Diaz) out of a deep commitment to guide and empower youth to turn away from violence, crime, gangs, and drug use.
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Mr. Diaz is not only deeply committed to our mission but genuinely passionate about it, shaped by his powerful life story.
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Raised by a single mother and without a father figure, Mr. Diaz made a life-altering mistake at a young age by surrounding himself with the wrong influences. At just 15 years old, he was incarcerated for a crime he did not commit, along with six others. Although he did not commit the crime and was unaware the crime had even occurred until the following day, he was convicted by association and sentenced to 12 years in state prison.
While this experience was devastating, Mr. Diaz took responsibility for the choices that placed him in that situation and became determined to change the course of his life. During his incarceration, he committed himself to self-improvement—enrolling in multiple programs, reading extensively, and earning a college degree. His conviction would eventually be overturned but not until 20+ years later and after he had already served his time.
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Since his release, Mr. Diaz has built a successful career in sales and founded thriving businesses of his own, using his experience as a driving force to create positive change.​
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We acknowledge that his journey of redemption and success after incarceration is uncommon. This truth reinforces our belief that prevention is key to giving youth a stronger chance to avoid life-destructive paths. Through mentorship, education, and community engagement, we strive to create lasting change—one visit at a time.​
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Our work begins where the need is greatest in schools, juvenile halls, and foster programs reaching youth who are searching for direction, belonging, and hope. Through mentorship, awareness programs, and positive intervention, we help young people discover their potential, make better choices, and build a vision for a brighter future.
At The Compass Project, we believe every young person deserves guidance, opportunity, and the support to rise above life’s challenges. We’re here to help them find their purpose, develop leaders, and break free from the cycles that hold them back.
Together, we can create a generation of confident, purpose-driven youth who lead with integrity and become the positive change their communities need.
"For those of us who have survived and risen above a destructive life, we carry a duty to shield the next generation from the paths that once threatened to destroy us."
​-Juan Carlos Diaz
Our Vision
We envision a generation of young people who are confident, purpose driven, and free from destructive influences. Each child we reach will be equipped to make positive choices and become a leader in their community.
Our Purpose
The Compass Project exists to reach youth where they are, including schools, juvenile halls, and foster programs. We work to inspire change, build awareness, and guide young people toward hope, responsibility, and a brighter future.
