About Us

Our Purpose & Mission

Empowering Change, Championing Justice

At PowerMentor, our mission is clear: to advocate for marginalized communities and provide humanitarian aid worldwide. We take action where it matters most—whether it’s direct intervention in rescue operations or sending critical briefs to the International Criminal Court to address injustices.

Our impact is both global and local. We organized Karen Day in Washington, D.C., where 20,000 Karen ethnic individuals stood strong at the U.S. Capitol in 2017 and continued annually until the pandemic halted large gatherings. Domestically, we empower refugees across the U.S., helping them adapt, integrate, and thrive as leaders within their new communities.

Through the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), our founder, Dr. Kevin LaChapelle, shares mentorship and expertise with emerging leaders worldwide—amplifying our mission on a global scale.

Our strategy is simple yet profound: identify those ready for change, nurture their courage, and empower them to transform their lives and impact the world. We believe in others even more than they believe in themselves, offering mentorship that is genuine, strategic, and purpose-driven.

What We Believe

Transforming Lives Through Purpose and Potential

We believe everyone has a unique, God-given purpose. At PowerMentor, we look beyond circumstances, focusing on the potential within every individual. Our approach is grounded in mentorship that influences lives meaningfully—leveraging our everyday actions to create extraordinary impact.

The term “PowerMentor” embodies our approach: a strategic, immersive experience that fosters personal and professional growth. This method, developed by former Police Officer and Founder, Dr. Kevin LaChapelle, emphasizes modeling positive behavior, connecting passionately, and involving individuals purposefully in real-world projects.

Our success stories range from high school dropouts becoming attorneys and professionals to community members finding their voice as advocates and leaders. Our framework is not just about support—it's about igniting a lasting change.

Our Story

One Encounter, Endless Possibilities

  • Kevin LaChapelle, EdD, MPA


    The PowerMentor journey began in the 1990’s when Kevin LaChapelle, then a police officer, met Jose Orozco at a fast-food drive-thru. What started as a casual conversation about college aspirations led to a transformative mentorship. Inspired by LaChapelle’s encouragement, Orozco earned his GED, enrolled in college, and set his sights on becoming an attorney.

  • Jose Orozco, Esq.


    This encounter was just the beginning. As their friendship grew, so did their ambitions. Orozco challenged LaChapelle to pursue his own college education, leading to the founding of PowerMentor in 1999. Since then, PowerMentor has changed lives—one person at a time—through mentorship and leadership development.

  • Agustin Pena, Esq.


    In 2005, LaChapelle and Orozco met Agustin Peña, another young man with a dream of becoming a lawyer. Despite facing immense tragedy, including the loss of his brother to gang violence, Peña persevered with the support of his mentors. Today, both Orozco and Peña serve as attorneys in San Diego, while LaChapelle earned his Doctorate in Leadership.

These stories are not exceptions—they are examples of what happens when belief, opportunity, and purpose align. At PowerMentor, we continue this legacy, inspiring and guiding individuals to turn their potential into power.