Ramon Ramos, founder of the Exception, to join our American Youth Justice Narratives panel!
Posted in Announcements JRF
We are please to announce that we will be joined by Ramon Ramos, the founder and President of the Exception, at our American Youth Justice Narratives: Perspectives of the Media, Policymakers, and Communities at our upcoming 2026 Janet Reno Forum on September 10th!
Ramon will be joined by leading figures in media and policy to explore the stories we, collectively, are telling about today’s youth justice system. How are those who have been impacted by the system incorporating that experience into their lives? What are the helpful and unhelpful stories prevalent today about youth justice, and what are some ways we can help shift those narratives?
We hope you can join us reimagine what the next chapter of the American Youth Justice Story can be on September 10th! Learn more on the Forum’s registration site!
About Ramon
Ramon has an incredible life story that defies all odds. Born and raised in the streets of San Bernardino, California, he was surrounded by the harsh realities of drug addiction and gang violence from an early age. His future appeared bleak, and the prospect of a life in prison seemed inevitable.
By the age of 15, he found himself heavily involved in gangs, battling a meth addiction and living homeless on the streets. Determined to break free, Ramon embarked on a journey of personal transformation. His experiences inspired him to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life through a holistic approach to wellness.
Ramon’s story of overcoming adversity is at the heart of The Exception’s name and ethos. He refused to accept the grim predictions others had made for his life and became “The Exception.” His remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to others facing seemingly insurmountable challenges.
He brings over 25 years of experience mentoring at-promise youth and individuals impacted by the justice system, dedicating his life to creating lasting, positive change for young people and their families. Today, he works to cultivate a culture of servant leadership while strategically managing relationships with community stakeholders, media, and government partners to advance outreach and expansion efforts.
Most recently he was appointed as the Chairman of the Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council Ad Hoc Committee in Riverside County to help establish a community-based approach for youth justice system services. This also led him to create what is now known as the CBO Alliance, a dynamic group of community based organizations, united by a shared commitment to foster vibrant communities and address systemic challenges.