Our Team
Richard Smith
Richard Smith is a dedicated entrepreneur, mentor, and advocate for second chances. Having experienced the criminal justice system firsthand—serving time in both the juvenile and adult systems—he knows the challenges of rebuilding a life after incarceration. After coming to faith and radically transforming his own path, Richard committed himself to helping others do the same.
As the co-founder of Hope Seals LLC, he works alongside his wife, Valerie, to support men re-entering society, breaking down barriers, and providing real opportunities for change. His passion for redemption and resilience drives him to serve with integrity, compassion, and an unshakable belief in transformation.
Beyond his work, Richard is a devoted husband and father who values faith, family, and hard work. Through his leadership, mentorship, and lived experience, he is proof that change is possible—and he’s dedicated to helping others find that same hope
valerie smith
Valerie Smith is a passionate leader, speaker, and advocate with over a decade of experience. As a devoted wife, homeschooling mom of two, and co-founder of Hope Seals LLC, she is dedicated to helping men successfully re-enter society after prison. Valerie thrives on breaking down barriers, empowering others to achieve their dreams, and creating opportunities where they seem impossible.
Beyond business, she finds joy in serving her church, pouring into the next generation, and making people laugh. Whether she’s working alongside her husband and children in their family business or inspiring those around her, Valerie is committed to bringing hope, passion, and purpose to everything she does.
The Men of the arena
The Hope Seals LLC team is made up of warriors—men of the arena who are stepping back into the world after incarceration, determined to rebuild their lives with purpose and strength. These men are more than just workers; they are fathers, husbands, leaders, and role models in the making. Every day, they show up not just to work, but to grow—learning what it means to be providers, mentors, and pillars in their communities.
Each man carries a unique story, shaped by challenges, lessons, and dreams for the future. They fight hard to stay in the arena, pushing themselves to become better in every aspect of life. Through discipline, brotherhood, and relentless perseverance, they are rewriting their futures—one day, one job, and one step at a time.
Our guiding principle
“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”
Theodore Roosevelt, 1910
The Hope men stay in the arena.
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We firmly believe in the potential within every individual and have witnessed the remarkable impact that comes from offering a second chance. We employ individuals seeking a fresh start and a meaningful transformation in their lives. Our mission is to inspire other employers by demonstrating that hiring individuals with criminal records can enhance not just their workforce and company culture, but also uplift their surrounding communities.