The Fortune Society’s Alternatives to Incarceration (ATI) program aims to reduce the prison and jail populations by helping people impacted by the criminal legal system lead law-abiding, productive lives. Through weekly group sessions, regular meetings with a case manager, and connection to key resources, the ATI program provides tools designed to help people enrolled in the program succeed.    

Keith graduated from the ATI program in 2024, and he shared that his time in the program was incredibly valuable. At the start of the program, Keith connected with his case manager, Malik, who became a role model for him throughout his time in ATI. They met regularly, and Malik became an integral part of Keith’s growth and self-development while at Fortune.    

“It was like having a mentor or a big brother to look up to and to learn from by seeing his mistakes and where he came from,” Keith explained. “He facilitated everything for me in regard to getting connected with leadership opportunities and networking.”    

While enrolled in the ATI program, Keith attended weekly group sessions where he practiced Anger Management skills and Interactive Journaling, among other topics. Each group session follows a curriculum that encourages participants to share personal experiences and learn from one another.   

Keith shared that at the start of the program, he and the other participants felt hesitant; however, he was determined to take advantage of the opportunity before him.

Keith continues to make the most of the opportunities presented to him, through Fortune and elsewhere. During his time in the program, Keith participated in Drive Change, a three-month paid culinary program that teaches system-impacted people culinary and leadership skills.     

Currently, Keith is a Justice Ambassador at Columbia University, where he works as an intern to learn more about office work and focus on professional development.  

“I never thought about going to school, and maybe I still don’t, but people have seen capabilities in me that I wouldn’t have thought I had,” Keith shared. “I’m using all of these opportunities as networking, and in the future, I want to advocate for the youth and come up with preventative measures that keep people from getting locked up.”   

Keith is grateful for his mentors, who encourage him to continue developing his leadership skills. At Fortune, he has connected with staff and participants who have shown unwavering support and encouragement. As Keith looks toward what comes next, he feels grounded knowing that the people he met at Fortune will continue to stand behind him.