The concept of L.E.A.P. came from a vision that God gave the founder, Richard “Reason” Garrett in his darkest hours. Having made some poor choices in life that led to his incarceration, Richard had plenty of time to reflect on his downward spiral from the top. It was there that he learned the valuable lesson that it is not only the inmate that does the time, but also his family and loved ones because a part of them is locked away. With a newfound determination and renewed relationship with God, Richard life began to transform behind the bars. One message he continued to preach to fellow inmates was the importance of finding a reason to change and letting that be the reason they refused to let anything prevent them from committing to that change. After awhile the name Reason stuck.
As for the vision of LEAP it came in the still of the night, when only thoughts can be heard. God showed Reason an enclosed apartment complex with a nearby day care, and community center where families could be strengthened and youth developed into productive and responsible citizens.
Upon being released in 2006, Reason set out to make the vision a reality. To fund the project he started his own publishing company called Liberated Publishing where he also provided web design and marketing services. He later changed the official name of the company to LEAP Enterprises and continued funding the organization through this for profit venture.
Gradually he began to share his vision with others. While many dismissed it as if it was just wishful thinking, there was a handful that embraced it. Pastor Harris of First Missionary Baptist Church being one of them who opened up the Emmanuel Family Life Center for LEAP to operate its mentoring program out of as well as the day care. In addition to allowing LEAP to develop 3 acres of the churches land into an apartment complex for low income single parents. Pastor Tommy and the HOPE organization provided additional resources, advice on how to obtain 501c3 status and obtaining grant funding. Leo Millan with Millan Enterprises provided the first apartment unit to house a single parent and her two kids under the Emergency Housing program. Treva Gordon utilized her position in the community and Convenient Shopper Magazine to build awareness of the things LEAP were striving to achieve in the community.
Several other organizations have aided LEAP in working towards fulfilling its vision. Reason alongside an involved Board of Directors and growing volunteer base are committed to LEAPing for success through faith, education, and outreach.
