About Us
T.R.A.P. TEAM
We are the Trap Team, a Truth, Recovery, Advocate Project. Our mission is to be a strong voice and advocate for various critical issues affecting our community
. We are passionate about advocating for the homeless, working towards finding sustainable solutions, and providing support to those in need. We are dedicated to drug prevention and intervention, aiming to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse and offering resources for recovery. Additionally, we are committed to combating sex trafficking by promoting prevention measures and providing support for survivors on their journey to recovery. Furthermore, we stand with parents who have children in the Child Protective Services (CPS) system, advocating for their rights and working towards positive outcomes for families. Together, we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Our Story
Founder And CEO
Valentino Gonzales, the visionary founder and CEO of Truth Recovery Advocate Project (T.R.A.P.), is a living testament to resilience, transformation, and the power of second chances. Once navigating life as an ex-gang member and drug dealer, Valentino faced an uphill battle after being accused of attempted murder and facing a 13-year sentence. He successfully had the charges reduced to self-defense, assault with a deadly weapon, and great bodily injury (GBI), resulting in a six-year split sentence. During this challenging time, Valentino became homeless and struggled with addiction. He served two of his three years in custody and, during his incarceration, transitioned into the Salvation Army Anaheim Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC). A year later, he graduated from the program and now proudly serves as an alumnus. While navigating homelessness and living in La Palma Park in Anaheim among Orange County’s homeless community, Valentino battled addiction and the challenges of reentry. Through a journey of self-discovery and renewal, he embraced faith and education as guiding lights. After graduating from the Salvation Army Anaheim Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC) in 2019, he began his journey, and these experiences became the cornerstone of his advocacy work. Today, Valentino channels his past into purpose, leading T.R.A.P. with a commitment to supporting formerly incarcerated and system-impacted individuals. His unique perspective fuels his dedication to outreach, recovery, and helping others rebuild their lives with dignity. After founding Streetkeepers Outreach Ministry in 2020, he then founded T.R.A.P. in 2023. Through his efforts, Valentino is not only reshaping his community but also inspiring others to believe in the possibility of change and redemption.
V.P
Frank Palacios, Vice President of the Truth Recovery Advocate Project, is a dedicated advocate for change with a personal journey that speaks to the power of resilience and transformation. After spending 17 years in the California state prison system, Frank emerged determined to use his experiences to support and uplift others affected by incarceration. As a formerly incarcerated and system-impacted individual, he brings a unique perspective to his role, working tirelessly to empower those seeking a second chance. Through his work with the Truth Recovery Advocate Project, Frank is committed to breaking down barriers, fostering community connections, and advocating for meaningful reentry opportunities. His leadership is guided by compassion, empathy, and a steadfast belief in the potential for personal and societal change.
DONATIONS
For every $25 donation, we are able to provide 10 hot, nutritious meals to individuals and families in need during our Thanksgiving outreach. Your generous contribution directly supports our mission to feed the homeless community and families living in local motels who are facing challenging times. With your help, we can bring warmth, nourishment, and hope to those who need it most this holiday season.