Our Story
Transforming Lives Through Second Chances
Mission Statement
Teenz Clean is a youth-driven car care initiative designed to empower teens aged 12–18, especially those from underserved and at-risk communities, by providing a safe, productive alternative to idle time through weekend and school holiday car cleaning services. Launching as a mobile detailing unit, Teenz Clean envisions growing into a permanent, youth-operated car wash facility.
Our mission is to equip young people with essential workforce and life skills through hands-on training in vehicle detailing, customer service, financial literacy, and teamwork. With guidance from adult mentors, participants develop professionalism, accountability, and a strong work ethic.
Teenz Clean aims to reduce youth delinquency, foster respect for authority, and inspire entrepreneurial growth—preparing teens not only for employment but for lifelong success.
Non-Profit Organization
Teenz Clean Mobile Detail Youth Initiative Inc. is a registered non-profit organization committed to reducing youth delinquency through structured engagement, fostering respect for authority, and inspiring entrepreneurial growth—preparing teens not only for employment but for lifelong success.
The Founding Story
Teenz Clean was created to give young people—especially those facing difficult circumstances—a real chance to discover responsibility, purpose, and the possibility of a better future. The program’s values and mission are rooted deeply in the lived experience of its founder, Perry Bernard, whose life reflects the transformation and resilience Teenz Clean aims to cultivate in today’s youth.
As a young man, Perry served a 13-year sentence in the Louisiana Department of Corrections, serving every day with no eligibility for parole or early release. During that time, through discipline, focus, and consistent positive conduct, he earned a position in the administration building at Dixon Correctional Institute as a car wash orderly. That job became a turning point—not only because it provided skills, but because it gave him responsibility, trust, and dignity.
The classification officer was a woman who noticed Perry’s commitment and encouraged him to stay on a positive path, promising to advocate for a parole hearing if he continued demonstrating personal growth. Both men kept their word. Perry was released in 1992.
After his release, Perry dedicated himself to helping others overcome the same challenges he once faced. He co-founded Project Return, the first offender re-entry program in New Orleans and in the state of Louisiana, and served as Director of Programs from 1993 to 2004.
His work helped countless returning citizens rebuild their lives, reconnect with their families, and gain meaningful employment. In 2003, Perry received a full governmental pardon in recognition of his service, leadership, and commitment to the community.
Perry went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree (2006) and Master’s degree (2008) in Criminal Justice from Southern University at New Orleans. Continuing his lifelong dedication to youth empowerment, he founded Teenz Clean as a direct extension of his lived experience and professional expertise.
Teenz Clean is designed to give teens—particularly those involved in the juvenile justice system or at risk of entering it—the same transformative opportunity Perry was once given: the chance to work, learn, grow, and believe in themselves.
Teenz Clean gave my son structure and purpose. He’s more responsible now than I’ve ever seen him.
Program Overview
What It Is
A weekend and school holiday car cleaning service operated by teens, starting as a mobile detailing unit with plans to grow into a permanent youth-run car wash facility.
Who It Serves
Teens aged 12–18, especially those in underserved or at-risk communities, offering them a safe, productive alternative to idle time.
How It Works
Teens are trained in vehicle detailing, customer service, financial literacy, and teamwork. Adult mentors supervise operations to ensure safety, quality, and guidance.