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Every person deserves a second chance—a chance to redefine themselves, rise above their past, and contribute meaningfully to their community. Yet, society often forgets about those who need second chances the most: individuals who are justice-involved, who face barriers to employment, or who are emerging from years of struggle with systemic challenges. At Persevere, we have seen firsthand the transformative power of second chances and the extraordinary potential that lies within those society tends to overlook.

Who Are the Forgotten?

The “forgotten” are individuals society often dismisses as unworthy of opportunity. They include those with justice system involvement, people who face significant employment barriers due to their history, individuals with limited access to education or training, and those trapped in cycles of poverty or addiction. Many of these individuals bear the weight of their past, yet beneath the surface, they are brimming with untapped potential.

Statistics show that nearly 650,000 individuals are released from U.S. prisons each year, with 77% of them re-arrested within five years. These numbers are a sobering reminder that without intervention and opportunity, the cycle continues. At Persevere, our work focuses on breaking this cycle by equipping individuals with the skills, resources, and support they need to succeed.

The Challenges They Face

Imagine trying to rebuild your life when you’re met with closed doors at every turn. Employers, landlords, and even family members can be hesitant to trust someone who carries the stigma of a conviction or past mistakes.

On top of these barriers, individuals often face:

• A lack of marketable skills: Many have never had access to education or vocational training, leaving them unprepared for today’s job market.

• Systemic discrimination: A criminal record can overshadow even the most qualified candidate.

• Mental health challenges: Trauma, depression, and anxiety often follow justice-involved individuals as they navigate the world post-incarceration.

• A loss of identity and hope: Years of being defined by a mistake can erode confidence and self-worth.

How Persevere Provides Second Chances

At Persevere, we believe that skills change stories. Since April 2019, we’ve helped over 750 individuals in Tennessee transition to brighter futures. By addressing both the systemic barriers and personal struggles these individuals face, we create opportunities for them to reenter society with dignity and purpose.

Our programs include:

1. Technology Training: Teaching pathways like Full Stack Development, AWS Cloud Practitioner, Data Analytics, and Project Management.

2. Holistic Wraparound Services: Beyond skills, we provide case management, mental health support, and resources to ensure participants are equipped to handle life outside of incarceration.

3. Employer Partnerships: We actively partner with employers who are committed to hiring justice-involved individuals, providing pathways to meaningful, sustainable employment.

4. Youth Programming: By starting early, we disrupt the cycles that lead to incarceration, offering technology-based programs like EarSketch, which combines coding with music creation.

Our impact goes beyond individuals; it ripples into families and communities. For example, our recidivism rate in Tennessee is less than 2%, proving that second chances work when given the right support.

The Ripple Effect of Redemption

When you provide a second chance to someone, you’re not just helping an individual—you’re helping their family and their entire community. A justice-involved parent who learns to code can support their children. A young adult who gains technical certification can inspire peers in their neighborhood. A graduate who starts their own business can create jobs for others.

We’ve seen former participants rise to leadership roles, mentor others, and become powerful advocates for change. These stories remind us that no one is beyond redemption and that the label of “forgotten” is only temporary when met with opportunity.

Why It Matters

Providing second chances is not just about charity—it’s about justice. It’s about recognizing the value of every human life, no matter how messy or complicated their story. At Persevere, we believe that offering second chances is an investment in the future.

The economic benefits are clear: individuals who are gainfully employed are less likely to return to prison, reducing taxpayer burdens and increasing community prosperity. But beyond the numbers, it’s about humanity. Every person we serve is a reminder that everyone is capable of change when someone believes in them.

How You Can Help

You don’t have to run a nonprofit to make a difference. You can:

• Hire with purpose: Advocate for second-chance hiring practices in your workplace.

• Support organizations like Persevere: Donate your time, resources, or voice to amplify their mission.

• Educate yourself and others: Learn about the challenges justice-involved individuals face and how you can be an ally.

• Advocate for systemic change: Push for policies that reduce barriers to employment, housing, and education for formerly incarcerated individuals.

A Final Thought

Every day at Persevere, we see lives transformed. We see individuals who once felt invisible find their voices, their talents, and their sense of self-worth. Providing a second chance isn’t just a kind gesture—it’s a life-changing act of faith in someone’s potential.

The question is not whether we should provide second chances but whether we can afford not to. Let us remember: the most forgotten among us often have the greatest capacity for redemption. All they need is someone to believe in their story and their ability to write a better ending. Will you be that someone?

If you’d like to learn more about how Persevere is rewriting stories through second chances, visit us at PersevereNow.org. Together, we can continue to create change that matters.