Crime in Atlanta, like in many urban areas, often stems from unmet basic needs, untreated trauma, and insufficient support for mental health and substance abuse issues. It is a misconception that all people commit crimes for enjoyment; survival and desperation frequently drive these actions. Addressing these root causes by helping individuals gain new skills, resources and meaningful employment can directly reduce crime and improve public safety. Second Chance Summit 2025- Te

The Challenges of Employment for People with Criminal Backgrounds As we are in the midst of our 4th cohort program, I realize that the challenge of people with backgrounds securing gainful employment is extremely challenging.  As I’ve heard before, when America gets a cold, low-income people get the flu. This is so very true in the arena of employment for people with backgrounds. In this era, I have seen that it is difficult for people without backgrounds who hold college deg

Society often holds misconceptions and stereotypes about formerly incarcerated individuals, perpetuating a stigma that hinders their reintegration process. Part of Project Restart’s mission is dispelling these myths and promoting a more inclusive and understanding society. We have heard so much about and have participated in so many diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) activities in the past 5 years, but a truly inclusive culture is one that also embraces this demographic.

When people have asked me why I’m passionate about the work I do or why I do what I do, I ask them, “why not?”.  Many of us have been...