But nearly 1 in 3 American adults has a criminal record. Each one faces barriers to employment, education, housing, and other things they need to unlock a brighter future.
And that’s not all.
They also face the stigma of their past. Society can be unwilling to engage with someone who has a criminal record—and can be quick to judge by looking at past offenses instead of future potential. A past can create obstacles in relationships with employers and the wider community—and even within churches.
Let's stand together for second chances.
In 2017, Prison Fellowship® spearheaded Second Chance Month®, a nationwide campaign to raise awareness and unlock second chances for men and women who have paid their debt to society. The goal of Second Chance Month is to change perceptions. To shift the narrative by amplifying the voices of the formerly incarcerated. To share their stories. To restore their dignity.
As Christians, we believe no life is outside of God's grace. Just as God offers us second chances, we can and should extend second chances to those around us.
Do YOU believe every life deserves a second chance?
During Second Chance Month, you have the opportunity to raise your digital megaphone, get creative to raise awareness, and make an unforgettable impact by raising funds!
By participating, you help prepare incarcerated people, their families, and returning citizens to live out a second chance by:
Advocating for reform that removes barriers that keep returning citizens from reaching their full potential, without compromising public safety.
Providing the Inside Journal® Life Recovery Bible in English or Spanish to prisoners who long for hope.
Sharing in the cost of sponsoring an in-prison Hope Event® that offers a safe space for prisoners to encounter Christ—many for the first time.
Caring for families of incarcerated people by providing Christmas gifts, camp events, and more to children of prisoners.
But don’t let the dollar amount limit you. Whether you raise $20, $200, $2,000, or more, EVERY dollar you raise will break down barriers. You'll ensure that prisoners and the more than 70 million Americans who have a criminal record can wipe the slate clean by getting the second chance they need—and prove they can make important contributions to society. We hope you’ll join us to #UnlockSecondChances. To smash negative stereotypes. And to release men and women from the barricades of their past so they can flourish within their communities.
