Community Spotlight: Forrest Leichtberg & The Freedom To Choose Project

Forrest Leichtberg, Executive Director

1.  Can you please share more about yourself and the mission of The Freedom To Choose Project?

For the past eleven years, I've called the South Coast my home, where I've built my life and career. My leadership journey began when I founded The Consciousness Network, a personal growth organization that began with just a kernel of an idea and developed into a vibrant community of over 2,000 members and participants within four years, making a county-wide impact.

What sparked this journey was a life-threatening illness that I faced at age 17. This profound pain and suffering ignited a deep motivation to share ideas, concepts, and initiatives that could bring healing to as many people as possible. Since then, I've dedicated my life to personal growth, enhancing my capacity to serve humanity, and supporting various service organizations in boosting their well-being and effectiveness.

The mission of The Freedom to Choose Project fits right into this intention: To transform the lives of individuals impacted by incarceration through compassionate experiential education.

2.  Who has made a strong impact on your life and has helped you to get you where you are today? 

I've been fortunate to have a variety of mentors and admired individuals who have a deep understanding of human nature, the search for meaning in life, and the intent to pursue personal and collective well-being. Their wisdom and guidance has shaped my journey in every way and helped me become who I am today. One of those mentors was the late Michael Russer, who passed away in March of 2023. My parents have both been huge influences on me, as well.

3.  What are some recent highlights at Saticoy Food Hub? And what events, milestones and steps are in the near future? 

A significant recent highlight is the successful launch of our correspondence program, which occurred in response to the COVID-19 shutdowns. This initiative now reaches participants in every state prison across California and allows us to expand our impact across the entire State of California and beyond.

Additionally, we were just recognized by the California State Assembly with a formal resolution, sponsored by Assembly Member Gregg Hart: “The Freedom to Choose Project has evolved into a leader in the field of prison rehabilitative programs and services, and... is commended for the vital role it has played in supporting rehabilitation and reducing recidivism."

4.  What about Saticoy Food Hub is special to you, what would you like our readers to know?  

What makes the Freedom to Choose Project truly special to me is our amazing culture. This palpable, joyful culture permeates every level of the organization—from our board and staff to our volunteer community. This energy also extends to our programs, where participants genuinely experience a transformational field of love and acceptance. It's within this nurturing environment that they find their healing and growth.

5.  Why did you think it was important to become an organizational member of the CNL? What do you value most about your membership? 

I believe deeply in the importance of leadership development and board development. Joining the Center for Nonprofit Leadership was important because it's one of the best resources I've ever found for helping nonprofit agencies across the Central Coast reach their fullest potential. My connection with the Center for Nonprofit Leadership not only allows me to continue growing and contributing effectively to the nonprofit sector but supports our board and entire organization in building our capacity to do so.

6.  How can the community support you? Where can they find you on social media? 

I encourage the community to reach out to me via LinkedIn or to email me at forrest@freedomtochooseproject.org. I'm always open to forming personal and professional relationships that lead to mutual growth or simply new friendships. And, if you are interested in learning more or supporting The Freedom to Choose Project, please consider volunteering or making a donation—you can find out more about our work at www.freedomtochooseproject.org.