Jim Wahlberg’s journey from troubled youth to philanthropist is a testament to the power of second chances and the importance of giving back to the community. Growing up in the tough Dorchester neighborhood of Boston, Wahlberg faced many challenges. He struggled with drug and alcohol addiction at an early age and was in and out of juvenile detention centers for various offenses. His life took a darker turn when he was sentenced to prison for armed robbery, followed by a second sentence for breaking and entering.

It was during his second prison stint that a pivotal moment changed the course of Wahlberg’s life. A Catholic priest offered him a job in a chapel, which led to a life-changing encounter with Mother Teresa during her visit to Massachusetts. Wahlberg, deeply moved by Mother Teresa's humility and strength, recognized the profound impact that faith and service could have on transforming lives.

"Only God can take your deficits and the ugliness about you and turn that into assets," Wahlberg reflects.

After his release, Wahlberg began working with individuals struggling with addiction, using his own experiences to guide and support them. Over the years, he has dedicated himself to helping those in need, particularly in the areas of substance abuse recovery and youth mentorship.

Nearly 24 years ago, Wahlberg and his wife, Bernarda, relocated to South Florida to escape the cold New England winters. It was there that he met John DiDonato, a fellow community advocate, and the two formed a strong bond based on a shared passion for helping others. Together, they’ve worked to create opportunities for those in need, focusing on jobs and mentorship for young people, building up to now, where Jim is a co-owner of K12 Print.

As part of his work with the Wahlberg Family Foundation, Jim continues to make a difference in the community by providing support and resources to individuals and families facing difficult circumstances. Wahlberg also currently serves as the executive director of the Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation, which was created to improve the quality of life for inner-city kids.

At K12 Print, we believe in the power of transformation and the importance of supporting those who are working to create positive change. Jim Wahlberg’s story is a powerful reminder that with determination, faith, and a commitment to helping others, we can all make a lasting impact in our communities.