TYRO “tiro” is a Latin word meaning; Apprentice, novice, someone learning something new.

TYRO was founded because incarceration affects more than just the individual—it impacts the entire family. When TYRO co-founder Ron Tijerina was sentenced to 14–25 years in prison, he and his family faced what felt like an insurmountable challenge. Rather than accept defeat, they committed to restoration and growth. TYRO is the result of 15 years of lived experience, principles, and hard-earned lessons that helped them transform that journey. It’s also backed by an additional 19 years of successful reintegration into family life and society.

TYRO was created from the Tijerina story, "Living With A Label," which inspired the development of the program. You can watch the story here: Living With A Label. TYRO was officially launched in 2006 as a fatherhood-specific program. Since then, it has evolved to serve not only fathers but also mothers and individuals without children.

The TYRO class consists of 20 hours of in-class instruction and an average of 4 hours of homework, totaling approximately 24 hours of total engagement.

Each TYRO workshop is typically 2 hours long. However, workshops can be customized to fit different time formats based on local needs.

Yes. While the standard format is 2-hour sessions, TYRO workshops can be localized and adjusted to suit varying time constraints or preferences.

In the standard format, the 20-hour TYRO class would typically require 10 workshops (2 hours each), not including homework time.

TYRO can be taught by staff, peer-facilitated, or led by an outside organization that is an existing partner.

TYRO is delivered through a variety of flexible formats to meet the diverse needs of participants. It can be taught in-person by certified facilitators, staff or peer led, allowing individuals to learn from one another. Additionally, TYRO is available on-demand, enabling participants to progress at their own pace, wherever and whenever it’s convenient for them. The program is designed to be adaptable for use in correctional facilities, businesses, community based organizations, and more, ensuring that it can reach a wide range of audiences.

TYRO is built on real-life experience and lasting transformation. Created by Ron and Catherine Tijerina who personally overcame incarceration and family breakdown, TYRO offers a principle-based approach rooted in authenticity—not just theory. The program is designed to break cycles of self-destruction and self-entitlement, empowering participants to take ownership of their lives and build a strong, lasting legacy. TYRO focuses on restoring identity, strengthening family bonds, and setting up individuals for success. With over 15 years of proven curriculum and nearly two decades of reintegration success, TYRO is delivered through flexible options including facilitator-led sessions, peer-to-peer models, and on-demand access.

Yes, TYRO is supported by evidence-based research demonstrating its effectiveness across various demographics.

• TYRO Dads Program: A randomized controlled trial involving 252 fathers found that participants reported significant improvements in their relationship satisfaction and increased engagement in activities with their children. These positive outcomes were linked to enhanced parenting efficacy, role identity, and co-parenting relationships .(Wiley Online Library)
• TYRO Leadership: is grounded in evidence-based practices and is an extension of the evidence-based TYRO Dads program. It equips individuals with the tools and mindset necessary for effective, values-driven leadership.
• TYRO Youth Program: An evaluation by Baylor University revealed that TYRO Youth participants experienced statistically significant gains in behavioral intentions related to abstinence, awareness of the consequences of early sexual activity, and perceptions of teen pregnancy .(tyroyouth.com)
• TYRO Couples Curriculum: This program has been shown to effectively increase skills related to relationship building, communication, conflict resolution, and relationship satisfaction, particularly among couples affected by incarceration .(ICHGCP)
• Additionally, TYRO Youth curricula have been reviewed by medical professionals and found to be medically accurate, aligning with Health Education Standards as indicated by the Health Education Curriculum Analysis Tool (HECAT) .(tyroyouth.com)

These studies collectively affirm TYRO's commitment to delivering programs grounded in research and proven to produce meaningful, positive outcomes.

The TYRO program has shown strong success, particularly in reducing recidivism and improving participants' outlooks on life. Key success metrics include:

• Recidivism Rate: TYRO Leadership participants have a low recidivism rate of about 2.8% after one year.
  
  
• Commitment to Fatherhood: Around 97% of participants report a strong commitment to fatherhood.
  
  
• Hopefulness for the Future: About 90% of participants express renewed hopefulness for their future.
  
  
• Recidivism Reduction for TYRO Dad: TYRO Dad participants aim for a recidivism rate of less than 3% within three months following their release.
  
  
• Improved Parent-Child Relationships: 90% of TYRO Dad participants report improved relationships with their children after completing the program.
  
  

Employment Outcomes: At least 75% of TYRO Dad program completers are expected to obtain full-time employment within three months of release.

TYRO is designed for individuals who want to break negative cycles and take ownership of their future—especially those impacted by incarceration. This includes incarcerated individuals, returning citizens, mothers, fathers, at-risk youth, and families seeking restoration. TYRO is also valuable for organizations, businesses, and community groups looking to develop strong character, leadership, and responsibility in the people they serve. Whether you're rebuilding your life, strengthening your family, or leading others, TYRO provides the tools to create lasting change and a meaningful legacy.

TYRO participants can expect personal transformation that leads to lasting change in every area of life—from how they view themselves to how they interact with others and pursue their goals. Outcomes often include stronger character, improved decision-making, increased personal responsibility, and a restored sense of identity. Participants also report healthier relationships, better communication skills, and a deeper commitment to family and legacy. For those reentering society, TYRO provides the tools to successfully reintegrate, reduce recidivism, and contribute positively to their communities. Ultimately, TYRO helps individuals break destructive cycles and build a life they—and their families—can be proud of.

TYRO is implemented nationwide and is expanding into international communities. It is delivered in a variety of settings, including correctional facilities, businesses, and community based organizations. TYRO can be facilitated by certified instructors or delivered through peer-to-peer facilitation models. Additionally, an on-demand version is available, allowing participants to engage with the program at their own pace.

Yes, TYRO can be tailored to meet the specific needs of various settings, including schools, businesses, organizations, and correctional facilities. For high schools, TYRO Youth empowers students by building values, resilience, and leadership skills. It helps students make positive choices, improve decision-making, and strengthen relationships with family and peers. Whether in a school, workplace, or facility, TYRO’s flexible curriculum creates a meaningful impact in any environment.

To explore how TYRO can benefit your organization, simply email us at info@tyro365.com to schedule a meeting. We’ll work with you to understand your specific needs and determine the best way to deliver TYRO for maximum impact.

Absolutely! TYRO isn’t just hype—it’s the real deal. It’s helped countless people break bad cycles and build better lives. Think of it as the secret sauce for lasting change—minus the mystery.