SAN JOSE, Calif. (KRON) -- Former Ultimate Fighting Champion (UFC) champion Cain Velasquez is giving back to the community just a month after his release from prison. MMA star Cain Velasquez released from prison, reunites with family Velasquez was convicted of attempted murder in the shooting of a m an who allegedly molested one of his children. Now, he’s partnering with the Transformative Justice Center for a special meet-and-greet event aimed at raising money and support for incarcerated men and rehabilitation programs. On Saturday at UFC FIT San Jose Oakridge, Velasquez was taking photos and signing autographs with fans. But the event was about more than just meeting supporters. Earlier this year, Velasquez was released from a California prison after spending nearly a year behind bars. During that time, he said he gained a deeper understanding of the men he was incarcerated with. “I did time in prison, I realize that these men do need a lot of resources," said Velasquez. I would say the majority of them are now on the road to recovery, self-recovery, where the stigmas of what I saw in movies and TV didn’t paint a picture of what I saw in my experience.” The meet-and-greet is helping raise money for the Monterey-based Transformative Justice Center. Founder Megan McDrew, who created the Empathy in Action program, said the center works to connect incarcerated individuals with the public through dialogue, healing and understanding. “I like to say I run a ministry, but it’s not a typical ministry," said McDrew. "It’s a ministry of remembrance. We hope people remember who they were before the crime, the labels and the loss of innocence.” The program also includes yoga, trauma-informed healing, reentry support and public education through tours and art exhibits. Velasquez added, “Realizing that their traumas as young men formed their lives to where they are now — decisions they made, the life they were living — all came from a source of being neglected…abuse.” Velasquez told KRON4 that during his time in prison, he started a breathing class for men serving time. He said community support is critical to help reconnect them to society. “That’s what the majority of men are doing — they want better for themselves like everybody else. A lot of it comes from resources, having other people help them," said Velasquez. ...read more read less