staceybooks

In every workplace, there are norms to follow, expectations to meet, and processes to respect. These norms ensure consistency and provide a framework for success. But there’s another element that often goes unspoken: the blend of integrity and values each individual brings to the table. It’s this mix of personal history, courage, and resilience that…

At Persevere, we believe in the power of second chances. Every day, we witness extraordinary transformations as individuals rise above their challenges, rebuild their lives, and unlock their full potential. Our graduates are living proof that with the right tools, support, and opportunities, the impossible becomes possible. From mastering technology skills in fields like Full…

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…

The workforce is evolving, and so should the practices of organizations seeking to attract, retain, and empower top talent. Yet, outdated hiring methods, rigid requirements, and surface-level approaches to diversity continue to hold employers back. As we step into 2025, here are three things employers need to stop doing—and how these changes can positively impact…

Taking PTO when you work in a nonprofit often feels like an impossible task. The demands never stop, the boundaries between personal and professional life blur, and the needs of others always seem to outweigh your own. Nonprofit work is deeply personal—it’s tied to your values and purpose—so walking away, even temporarily, feels like abandoning…

In a world where ambition is celebrated and success is idolized, it’s easy to slip into a cycle of manipulation, entitlement, and blind ambition. We often push for what we think we need, manipulating situations or people to get there, all while ignoring what’s already in front of us. In this pursuit, we fail to…

Respect is a powerful gift we can offer one another, but it’s also something we often take for granted. When we look at someone, especially those who have made mistakes—mistakes they are actively trying to overcome—it’s easy to focus on their past rather than their present or potential. Yet, when we reflect on our own…

We all carry stories—stories of triumph, struggle, redemption, and loss. For some, these stories are etched in scars that are visible, while for others, they are whispered quietly in memories of regret or shame. Yet, one universal truth remains: every person is deserving of respect and dignity, no matter their past experiences or choices. In…

One of the biggest barriers to successful reentry isn’t the lack of jobs, housing, or resources—it’s the stigma that follows justice-involved individuals. That stigma can make even the smallest steps forward feel like an uphill battle. I’ve witnessed it in the lives of countless others. Society often reduces people like us to our worst mistakes,…

Language has the power to shape how we see ourselves and others. The words we use to describe people can either uplift them or diminish their worth. This is especially true for individuals who have faced incarceration, substance use, or other challenges. In my work and personal life, I’ve come to understand the importance of…