Tales of redemption are central to our understanding of the human experience. Classic works like Les Misérables, A Christmas Carol, and Crime and Punishment all tell stories of individuals who confront past wrongs and seek atonement. Still, though the experience is universal, an individual’s path to redemption after justice involvement in the United States, specifically, is rampant with stigma, discrimination, and unnecessary barriers.

Compassion and support are critical to helping individuals move forward from past mistakes and overcome the hurdles they face because of them.

While in prison for 33 years, Robert heard “a friendly voice with a compassionate heart” on the radio discussing criminal justice reform. That voice belonged to David Rothenberg, the founder of The Fortune Society. David’s kindness inspired Robert to write him a letter. He then included Fortune within his plan as he prepared for release—he even wrote an essay for the Summer 2003 issue of The Fortune News titled “Redeeming the Time.” In April 2019, the day of release finally came. Though it’s been just a few weeks since then, our caring teams immediately began addressing Robert’s needs. Staff in our Single Stop program guided him through the complexities associated with obtaining a new ID and receiving benefits through the Social Security Administration. In addition, he attends meetings each Thursday that inspire and motivate him at The Fortune Academy (“the Castle”), our Emergency and Transitional Supportive Housing Program in West Harlem.

Each experience with Fortune affirms Robert’s gratitude for a community that cares.