Author: Isabella Lavaorgna

Operation New Hope is an organization that is dedicated to helping those that have been involved with the criminal justice system get re-acclimated into society afterwards. For over 25 years, they have worked to build a statewide reentry network, reconnecting people with the workforce, their families, and their communities. They have a ready4release, ready4work, and ready4success program where participants are able to receive job training, job placement, financial benefits, support services, mental health services, housing, and transportation assistance. By collaborating with the Department of Corrections, Operation New Hope is able to deliver pre-release services to 29 facilities in Florida. Their ready4release team targets qualified inmates, where case managers can ensure them with adequate housing, transportation, and job training. Once completed, it is followed by the ready4work program. Poverty and financial hardship for the formerly incarcerated are the main drivers of recidivism, so a comprehensive 4-pronged approach is implemented to ensure each client succeeds. The final step is the Ready4Success programs, and it offers first-class case management, career development, and other crucial program services in a virtual service model. They do their best to provide everything needed to build a new future after incarceration and reduce recidivism. Operation New Hope recognizes the cycle incarceration creates in communities that experience higher rates of crime, unemployment, and recidivism. This cycle not only harms individuals but also drains the local tax base and overall economy. Operation New Hope has given many people the opportunity to get back on their feet after involvement in the criminal justice system and help create a better future for themselves. If you or a loved one is struggling to re-acclimate after incarceration, reach out and help the next success story. They are located in downtown Jacksonville and can be contacted through their website: OperationNewHope.org.