Who We Are
Our Mission
Fresh Start focuses on enabling individuals to create a successful life emotionally, spiritually, socially, physically, and financially through REAL Transition. Each year Fresh Start provides hope, training, and support to previously incarcerated men and women allowing them to redirect their lives and become contributing members of our community and their families.
How it Works
People love connection. Fresh Start works with government entities and correctional facilities to train and bring healthy connections to women and men. Fresh Start offers a program that helps individuals by developing and setting goals in the five areas mentioned above. In addition, Fresh Start assists with housing, home ownership, education, employment, and entrepreneurial incubation.
This process reduces recidivism rates from the national average of 67% to only 6%.
Step 1: Transition Program
Fresh Start mentors work with those in prison through the REAL Transition program. This three-stage program has them set goals, make plans, and prepare for life once they are released. This typically takes about a year to complete. Want to be a mentor?
Step 2: Integration
In this phase, Transitioners who are released and qualify can have access to a Tiny Home that is on the property of a mentor family. The member pays rent, meets with the mentor family, and develops friendships in their new location. Interested in purchasing a Tiny Home?
Donated by Architectural Nexus, 2020
Step 3: Independence
Once their time in integration is complete (typically 18 months), the member is now encouraged to pursue their own interests. FreshStart provides employment tools & resources, helps Transitioners get their feet on the ground, and wishes them well in their new life.
Want to Know More?
What You Can Do
We Need You!
We appreciate every donor. We also need volunteers for all stages mentioned above. Mentors, builders, everything! Fill out our form to get connected with one of our members who can help you find the best way to contribute. You can volunteer for a minimal of only an hour, and still make a big difference in someone else’s life.
