Blog – Operation New Hope

Celebrating New Beginnings: Space Coast Open House

Marketing Admin — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 18:54:30 +0000

Celebrating New Beginnings: Space Coast Open House

Operation New Hope
December 16, 2025
Blog, Uncategorized

On Thursday, December 4th, Operation New Hope welcomed community members, partners, elected officials, and supporters to help celebrate our new Space Coast office in Cocoa during a very special Open House event.

Operation New Hope first expanded to the Space Coast in August 2023 to meet the needs of justice-impacted individuals in Brevard County — an area among the top 10 in Florida for prison releases. With demand quickly growing, our Space Coast team previously operated out of two adjacent buildings to serve participants. As of this September, we are proudly operating under one roof in a larger and more accessible location, offering a more seamless and centralized experience for clients while expanding our capacity to serve.

The evening was filled with meaningful conversations, new connections, and a shared commitment to creating second chances for returning citizens across Florida — especially here in Brevard County.

Guests had the opportunity to tour our newly relocated facility, meet members of our Space Coast team, and learn more about the transformative reentry services we provide, including career development training, employment services, transitional housing, and other critical wraparound supports that help break cycles of incarceration.

Throughout the event, our dedicated staff guided attendees through each program area, answered questions, and highlighted how Operation New Hope empowers individuals returning from incarceration to thrive personally and professionally — ultimately strengthening families, workplaces, and communities.

Community support was on full display, with representatives from local organizations, employer partners, law enforcement, Brevard County leaders, and donors joining us to explore ways to work together to reduce recidivism and expand economic opportunity throughout the region.

The opening of our new Space Coast office marks an important milestone as we continue our mission as Florida’s Statewide Reentry Network. Each month, thousands of individuals return home from prisons and jails, often facing overwhelming barriers to stability. With this expanded space, we are better equipped to welcome people home, increase access to essential reentry services, and support more individuals in building stable, successful lives right here on the Space Coast.

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who joined us for this celebration, and to all who continue championing second chances. Together, we’re proving that hope truly starts here.

Pictured left to right: Cocoa Police Commander A. Marchica and Jarvis Wash, Director of Operation New Hope’s Space Coast Office.

Share this post

Dressing for Success: Chandler’s Hope Clothes Closet Supports Ready4Work Clients in Jacksonville

Marketing Admin — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 16:49:24 +0000

Dressing for Success: Chandler’s Hope Clothes Closet Supports Ready4Work Clients in Jacksonville

Reentering the workforce after incarceration comes with many challenges — landing a job interview, building confidence, and adjusting to new expectations in professional settings. But for many returning citizens, one significant barrier comes before they ever step into an interview: the cost of professional attire.

When first beginning work, most people don’t have the savings to purchase a full professional wardrobe. A suit, dress shoes, shirts, and accessories can easily total hundreds of dollars, a major upfront investment. For individuals balancing transportation, housing needs, and legal fines or fees, purchasing business attire is simply out of reach.

However, how you show up matters. Professional clothing not only opens doors to job opportunities, it impacts confidence, first impressions, and career success. At Operation New Hope, we believe every person deserves the dignity of looking and feeling prepared as they take their next step forward.

That’s why we are deeply grateful for our partnership with Chandler’s Hope Clothes Closet, a nonprofit organization that provides high-quality clothing free of charge to those who need them in Northeast Florida and beyond.

About Chandler’s Hope

Chandler’s Hope was founded by Michele Holbrook in honor of her son, Chandler Cook, who tragically lost his life to addiction in 2020. Inspired by Chandler’s generous spirit, the organization seeks to carry on his legacy of kindness.

Their mission is clear:
“We seek to provide dignity and hope to the homeless and those in need by providing quality clothing free of charge and showing unconditional love.”

Through mobile clothing distribution, community outreach, and emergency support, Chandler’s Hope serves individuals across Northeast Florida — ensuring that no one has to choose between essentials and the dignity of dressing professionally.

Bringing Hope — and Style — to Ready4Work

Since July 2025, the Chandler’s Hope team has visited our Jacksonville office each month with their accessible mobile trailer to support clients enrolled in the Ready4Work program. At any given time, Jacksonville serves around 60 participants across Weeks 1–3 of the program, each preparing for employment and ready to take the next step in their careers.

With the help of dedicated volunteers, clients have the opportunity to select 2–4 complete professional outfits — entirely free of charge. These include:

Shoes
Blazers and jackets
Slacks and skirts
Button-downs and blouses
Sweaters and tops
Bags, jewelry, and accessories

All items are new or like-new and carefully curated to help clients feel their best.

Clients often express how meaningful this experience is — not only because they receive professional attire, but because they feel seen, supported, and set up for success.

Empowering Confidence and Second Chances

Walking into a job interview dressed professionally doesn’t just change how an employer sees you — it changes how you see yourself.

Thanks to Chandler’s Hope Clothes Closet, our clients are equipped with the confidence they need to pursue opportunity and thrive long after Ready4Work graduation.

Community Partnerships

Operation New Hope extends a heartfelt thank you to Chandler’s Hope Clothing Closet, their caring volunteers, and the incredible community members who make this initiative possible. Your generosity directly contributes to stronger families, safer communities, and brighter futures.

Thank you for being Second Chance Supporters and helping our clients look — and feel — Ready4Work.

From Hiring Partner to Workforce Leader: Melissa’s Journey with Operation New Hope

Marketing Admin — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 19:14:11 +0000

From Hiring Partner to Workforce Leader: Melissa’s Journey with Operation New Hope

Operation New Hope
October 7, 2025
Blog, Uncategorized

When Melissa first connected with Operation New Hope more than a decade ago, she was looking for great employees. As a hiring manager at a Jacksonville construction company, she faced the same challenge many employers do — finding dependable, skilled team members who would show up, work hard, and grow with the company.

At the time, Melissa was meeting individuals struggling with homelessness, addiction, and reentry after incarceration. Having experienced the impact of incarceration within her own family, she deeply understood how it affects loved ones, but as an employer, she often felt unsure how to truly help.

That changed when she met Operation New Hope.

“Until I met Operation New Hope, I was losing faith in the process,” Melissa recalled. “But they restored that faith by showing what real second chances look like.”

Through Operation New Hope’s Ready4Work program, Melissa began hiring graduates who were rebuilding their lives after incarceration — and she quickly noticed a difference.

“The employees we hired from Ready4Work weren’t just qualified — they were motivated, loyal, and eager to succeed,” she said. “They brought so much value to our team.”

With the support of Operation New Hope’s staff, Melissa learned how to help employees navigate challenges that could arise on the job. Rather than letting someone go when issues occurred, a Job Coach would step in to provide guidance and equip the employee with tools for success. This hands-on collaboration helped participants maintain employment and thrive, while giving Melissa’s company the reliable workforce it needed.

Melissa became a strong believer in second chance hiring, seeing firsthand how it benefits both employees and employers. The results spoke for themselves; her company saw a 30% increase in repeat requests for Ready4Work employees, improved punctuality, fewer workplace accidents, and access to the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) during a tough economic period. Most importantly, she saw lives transformed for employees, their families, and the business itself.

“Employers stopped referring to us as just a day labor service,” Melissa said. “They began to see us as a full-fledged staffing agency with people who were capable, consistent, and committed.”

A Full-Circle Moment

Years later, Melissa’s journey came full circle when she joined Operation New Hope as our Workforce Development Coordinator.

Now, she helps other employers experience the same benefits she once did. Instead of hiring Ready4Work graduates, she helps prepare them to enter the workforce. Melissa connects clients with meaningful jobs and equipping them with the tools they need to thrive in living-wage careers.

Her unique background means she knows exactly what employers are looking for, and how to match them with the right candidates. Her role bridges two worlds: she works closely with both employers and participants. For clients, she helps develop individualized career plans, strengthen interview skills, and identify industries where they can thrive. For employers, she serves as a trusted partner, helping them access WOTC and Federal Bonding programs, find qualified candidates, and create supportive workplaces that reduce turnover and increase retention.

“When companies partner with us, they aren’t just hiring someone who’s ready to work,” Melissa said. “They’re helping break cycles of poverty and incarceration. It’s the best business decision you can make for your company and your community.”

Why Second Chance Hiring Works

Melissa’s experiences, both as an employer and as a staff member, have made her a passionate advocate for second chance hiring.

“Second chance hiring isn’t just a moral imperative — it’s smart economics,” she explained. “These are people who are motivated to rebuild their lives. They bring loyalty, commitment, and fresh perspectives to the workplace.”

She’s witnessed countless success stories, including one Ready4Work graduate who started in construction, completed an apprenticeship, earned a journeyman license, purchased a home, regained custody of their children, and now earns over $38 an hour.

“That’s what this program does,” Melissa said. “It helps people rebuild their lives, and helps employers gain some of their most dependable, driven employees.”

Building a Stronger Community Together

Today, Melissa continues to champion second chance hiring across Florida. She educates employers, shares her story, and reminds them that when they hire someone from Ready4Work, they gain an employee backed by a dedicated support team.

“Our staff work alongside both the employer and the participant to address challenges quickly, so the employer isn’t left on their own,” Melissa said. “That combination of motivation, structure, and support is what makes second chance hiring work.”

Her hope for the future is that second chance hiring becomes the norm — not the exception. “I envision a future where reentry programs are embraced as a standard part of workforce development,” she said. “When we focus less on punishment and more on reintegration, we all benefit. That’s how we build safer, stronger, and more prosperous communities.”

Improve Your Team & Organization

Join Melissa and hundreds of other business leaders in making an impact through second chance hiring.

Share this post

From Start to Finish: Hope Starts Here 5K Inspires Change

Marketing Admin — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 16:50:23 +0000

From Start to Finish: Hope Starts Here 5K Inspires Change

Operation New Hope
October 1, 2025
Blog

On Saturday, September 27, 2025, nearly 200 Orlando community members came together at Harbor Park in Lake Baldwin for the Third Annual Hope Starts Here 5K Orlando, raising awareness, funds, and support for second chances. Benefiting Operation New Hope, Florida’s Statewide Reentry Network, the event united participants of all ages and experience levels to run, walk, and celebrate hope and opportunity.

Running for Second Chances

The race kicked off at 8:00 a.m. as participants set out on the scenic 5K course around Lake Baldwin, enjoying tree-lined paths and beautiful water views. Energy and excitement carried runners and walkers toward the finish line, while our DJ kept the momentum high with great music throughout the morning.

Our first-place male finisher, Gregory Mathis, completed the course in an impressive 20:06, while Haley Roberts claimed first-place female with a time of 29:09. Afterward, participants gathered for an awards ceremony where Operation New Hope President & CEO Reggie Fullwood shared words of gratitude:

“Wow—what an amazing morning! At Operation New Hope, we see every day how difficult it is for our neighbors returning from incarceration to secure safe housing and fair employment. That’s why your support today means so much—it helps us open doors, create opportunities, and give second chances. Together, we are proving that when barriers come down, hope rises. Thank you for coming out and proving that hope starts here!”

The morning also featured the beloved Kids Dash, where children sprinted across the finish line, a joyful reminder that hope begins with the next generation. At Operation New Hope, our work not only transforms the lives of individuals returning from incarceration but also strengthens families, helping parents build stability and end cycles of poverty and incarceration for their children.

Community Support on Display

The 5K was a powerful celebration of community solidarity in support of reentry services and second chances. Local businesses and sponsors joined the cause, forming running teams, setting up vendor tables, and cheering from the sidelines. A special thank you to the Black Girls Run Orlando team for showing up in support!

A special thank-you to our sponsors—Orange Theory Fitness, The Southern Group, Waste Pro, and Recharge Infusions—whose generous support made this event possible. We are also deeply grateful to the dedicated volunteers from Olympia High School, whose hard work ensured the event’s success. These students assisted with registration, handed out water and post-race snacks, distributed medals, and cheered for every finisher. We truly appreciate the support of youth in our community!

Impact Beyond the Finish Line

Proceeds from the Hope Starts Here 5K will support Operation New Hope’s proven programs that provide:

Career development training
Transitional housing
Mental health services
Job placement support

These resources help justice-impacted individuals returning from incarceration build stability, and achieve long-term success. Since its founding in 1999, Operation New Hope has served more than 16,000 individuals across Florida through program locations in Orlando, Jacksonville, the Space Coast, St. Petersburg, and Tampa.

Clients of Operation New Hope experience a recidivism rate less than one-third of the state average—clear evidence that access to reentry services works, reduces crime, and strengthens communities.

Thank you, Orlando, for running with us! This event showed that when a community comes together, second chances become possible.

Together, we go the distance—for reentry, for hope, and for a stronger community.

Share this post

Operation New Hope Space Coast Has a New Home

Marketing Admin — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 17:01:17 +0000

Operation New Hope Space Coast Has a New Home

Operation New Hope
September 22, 2025
Blog

Operation New Hope, Florida’s Statewide Reentry Network, is excited to announce that our Ready4Work Program Location in Space Coast has moved into a new office!

Previously, due to client capacity, our team served participants across two adjacent buildings. As of Monday, September 15, 2025, we are now fully open and operating under one roof at our new location:

840 N Cocoa Blvd, Suites C & D, Cocoa, FL 32922

This new space allows us to continue providing wraparound reentry support in a more unified and accessible environment.

Supporting Second Chances in Brevard County

In Brevard County, the need for second chances is all around us. Every year, our community welcomes home hundreds of individuals returning from incarceration—placing Brevard among the top 10 counties in Florida for prison releases. Each one of these individuals deserves the opportunity to transform their life and truly thrive — but too often the barriers they face are overwhelming, contributing to cycles of homelessness, unemployment, and repeated incarceration that can ripple through generations.

Across Florida, nearly 6 in 10 people released from prison are rearrested within three years. Without access to stable housing, employment, or mental health support, these cycles are hard to break. Here in Space Coast, the Brevard County Jail averages nearly 1,600 people in custody each day, a sobering reminder of how many families are impacted.

Finding work after incarceration is one of the biggest challenges. Studies show that someone with a criminal record is 50% less likely to get a call back from an employer, no matter how qualified they may be. When combined with housing insecurity and the stigma of incarceration, it’s easy to see why so many struggle.

But there is hope. With 95% of people incarcerated in Florida eventually returning home, programs designed to provide returning citizens with skills and tools to support reentry success are essential: this is why a program like Ready4Work is vital to a thriving community. By providing training, counseling, housing, and a network of support, Operation New Hope is helping people not just return, but truly restart—building stronger families and safer communities in Brevard County.

How Ready4Work Helps

Every week at our Space Coast site, a new class of clients returning from incarceration begins their yearlong Ready4Work journey. For the duration of the program, each participant receives holistic, individualized guidance from their dedicated Ready4Work team: a case manager, a job coach, and a licensed mental health therapist. These experienced professionals work closely with each client to ensure they receive the tools, care, and resources necessary to reconnect with the community, their family, and the workforce.

Ready4Work offers:

Career development and employability training
Personal growth and life skills workshops
Three months of transitional housing
Access to vocational training after graduation in fields that lead to living-wage careers and long-term advancement

These interconnected strategies are proven to reduce recidivism, strengthen families, and create safer, more successful communities for all residents.

Our New Facility

Until now, services at Operation New Hope Space Coast were delivered from two nearby facilities — one housing intake, mental health, and client services, and the other dedicated to employment services and Career Development instruction. While only a short walk apart, services were not centralized.

Our new office brings all of our programs together under one roof, providing a more seamless experience for clients, and expanding our ability to serve. 

Highlights include:

Larger Career Development classroom with expanded seating
Centralized intake area for easy access to all services
Expanded technology spaces—a computer lab growing from 6 to 16 workstations, plus a Wonderlic testing lab expanded from 2 to 6 devices
Improved visibility and accessibility, located near public transportation and local businesses
Dedicated kitchen spaces for both clients and staff
One-stop support, where clients can meet with any member of their care team in a single visit

This new facility ensures participants receive the support they need in a space designed to foster growth, confidence, and long-term success – because we know that when individuals have the ability to overcome their past and truly thrive, the entire community benefits.

A Growing Community of Support

Since first opening our Space Coast site in August 2023, we have been deeply grateful for the community’s support. From local partners and employers to volunteers and advocates, your commitment has helped us grow and better serve justice-impacted individuals in Brevard County.

Every Friday we celebrate the graduation of a new Ready4Work class completing their three-week program. These ceremonies are open to the public, and we invite you to join us to witness the power of second chances firsthand. At Operation New Hope, we believe that Hope Starts Here. We look forward to continuing to serve clients in Brevard County and across the space coast region from our new home at 840 N Cocoa Blvd. Together, we’re building safer, stronger communities through opportunity.

Want to get involved?

Share this post

Hope and Healthcare: USF’s Mo-Bull Clinic Joins Operation New Hope to Serve Returning Citizens

Marketing Admin — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 18:15:17 +0000

Hope and Healthcare: USF’s Mo-Bull Clinic Joins Operation New Hope to Serve Returning Citizens

Operation New Hope is excited to announce a new partnership with the University of South Florida’s (USF) College of Nursing that will bring critical health services directly to our Ready4Work clients and alumni in Tampa and St. Petersburg.

Through this collaboration, USF’s Mo-Bull Nurse Medical Clinic will visit both ONH Tampa Bay sites bi-weekly for one full year, providing 52 free clinic visits valued at more than $300,000. Typically costing $3,000 per unit visit, these services are being generously offered at no cost to our clients thanks to USF’s commitment to serving underserved communities.

Accessible Care for ONH Clients

Beginning September 2nd in Tampa and September 9th in St. Petersburg, clients will be able to book appointments for:

New patient visits
Well visits and routine checkups
Adult and child physicals (including school, sports, and work physicals)
Sick visits and follow-up care
Women’s health services (including gynecological exams and well-woman appointments)
Immunizations
Management of common acute and chronic health issues
Point-of-care testing (blood glucose, pregnancy, rapid strep, cholesterol, and more)

Care will be available from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Tampa and 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in St. Pete on alternating weeks. Appointments can conveniently be scheduled online.

About the Mo-Bull Nurse Medical Clinic

Launched through a four-year grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (award number UK1HP46068), the Mo-Bull Nurse Medical Clinic is a state-of-the-art mobile unit designed to expand access to primary care.

The bus is fully equipped with two exam rooms, a restroom, medical storage, and a pop-up awning for community engagement. It is staffed by two advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), a patient care coordinator, and a faculty preceptor, while also serving as a clinical training site for undergraduate nursing students.

Meeting a Critical Need

Many of Operation New Hope’s clients face barriers to healthcare access due to financial constraints, lack of insurance, or limited availability of providers. This partnership directly addresses those challenges by bringing comprehensive, consistent medical care to our program participants where they are.

We are deeply grateful to the University of South Florida’s College of Nursing for this innovative partnership and their investment in the health and well-being of returning citizens and other underserved residents of Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. By supporting our clients’ physical health, this collaboration strengthens their ability to successfully reenter the community, secure employment, and build brighter futures.

Hope starts with opportunity, with access to healthcare being a vital part of that journey.

Are you a current Ready4Work client or alumni in Tampa or St. Pete?

Schedule your appointment today!

Learn more about where the Mo-Bull Nursing clinic serves the Tampa Bay area, and how you can support!

Share this post

Voices of Hope Update: Tanaine Jenkins – Florida State Organizer, REFORM Alliance

Marketing Admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 14:48:13 +0000

Voices of Hope Update: Tanaine Jenkins – Florida State Organizer, REFORM Alliance

Operation New Hope
September 4, 2025
Blog, Voices of Hope

When we first met Tanaine Jenkins in 2012, she had just joined Operation New Hope’s Ready4Work program in Jacksonville. Seeking a fresh start after incarceration, her case manager quickly connected her to an interview at a logistics company, where she was hired right away. That opportunity was just the beginning of a journey that has taken her from Ready4Work graduate to statewide leader, public speaker, entrepreneur, and national advocate for criminal justice reform.

Finding Her Voice

In her original Voices of Hope story in 2022, Tanaine shared that she was pursuing her public speaking certificate. Just one month later, she proudly walked across the stage in Atlanta to receive her certification from Eric Thomas and Associates. That same year, she stepped onto the TEDx stage in Jacksonville to share her powerful story with the world.

“I’ve been on countless panels and conferences since then,” she recalls. “They really haven’t been able to shut me up since!”

Building Confidence Through Opportunity

Tanaine credits Ready4Work with giving her the confidence to know she was capable of success.

“Operation New Hope showed me that nothing was wrong with me—I was still ready to work,” she reflects. “I practiced the ABCs: Any Job. Better Job. Career.”

Starting with “any job,” then moving to a “better job,” and eventually building her career, she exemplifies how one opportunity can unlock a lifetime of growth. Today, she makes it her mission to show others what’s possible by reminding them that ‘people cannot be what they cannot see’ and inspiring them through perseverance and purpose.

Entrepreneurship with Purpose

Driven by her own journey, Tanaine launched Everything I Am, a brand centered on authenticity and self-acceptance. “I started Everything I Am because I didn’t feel like I was enough. And I knew if I felt that way, others did too. I wanted to help people like me,” she explains. Her philosophy is simple: “It doesn’t matter if you’re flawed—you’re still everything you are. Be yourself. You can’t be anybody else because everyone else is taken.”

Her entrepreneurial spirit soon led her to create a hair apparel line celebrating locs, born out of a personal need. “One Christmas, I couldn’t find a T-shirt that celebrated my hair, so I decided to create my own. If there’s not one, build one. Everyone deserves to be represented.”

Like many entrepreneurs, she encountered barriers—including funding struggles during the pandemic. But rather than give up, she pivoted to digital platforms and grew her ventures into self-sustaining businesses.

For Tanaine, entrepreneurship is more than business, it’s purpose. “If what you’re doing doesn’t fulfill you, don’t do it. This is purposeful work. When you love what you do, it isn’t a job—it’s joy.”

Leading Change with REFORM Alliance

Today, Tanaine serves as the Florida State Organizer for REFORM Alliance, a national nonprofit working to transform probation and parole systems across the country. In just six years, REFORM has helped pass 22 laws in 11 states, including Florida’s SB 752 “incentives bill,” which reduces probation time for people working consistently or pursuing education.

In her role, Tanaine travels the state meeting with legislators, faith leaders, law enforcement, and community members to educate them about the realities of probation and build support for reform. “People can’t care about something they know nothing about,” she explains. “My job is to plant seeds and build power.”

Her proudest moments are seeing policy changes that reduce technical violations and shorten probation terms—victories that directly impact thousands of people who, like her, deserve a second chance.

Looking Ahead

Over the next five years, Tanaine hopes to see barriers to employment removed, more people accessing fair wages, and initiatives like Clean Slate advanced to clear records for those who have demonstrated years of successful reentry. She believes these changes are essential for building stronger families, safer neighborhoods, and greater opportunity.

Her message to those just starting their reentry journey is simple but powerful:
“You are enough. Your name is not felon, inmate, or worthless—your name is your name. Don’t answer to anything else.”

She also shares a perspective shift that has shaped her life:

“When I was on my bunk, I would wake up and say, ‘God, is my life?’ Now I wake up and say, ‘God, is this my life?’—and that has a completely different meaning. A lot of times we feel stuck in a place when we’re really just there for a season. You are not your worst day. And the truth is, you’ve survived 100% of your bad days. Look at your track record—you win every time.”

From Ready4Work graduate to state leader, Tanaine’s journey shows that with opportunity, support, and determination, returning citizens not only persevere but also thrive, making an impact across our cities, our state, and our nation.

Get Involved

Tanaine encourages community members and businesses to learn more about probation reform and support the mission of REFORM Alliance. She invites people to visit reformalliance.com to explore current campaigns, including the Safer Supervision Act, a federal bill with the potential to create lasting change across the nation.

Share this post

Voices of Hope – Shannon B.

Marketing Admin — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 15:24:46 +0000

Voices of Hope – Shannon B.

Operation New Hope
August 4, 2025
Blog, Voices of Hope

“Before coming to Operation New Hope, I had never had a job before, never worked, and had never even made a resume. I had been in and out of jail my whole life. Eventually, I went to rehab in the Space Coast at a center called STEPS, and that’s where I first heard about ONH.

I signed up for the Ready4Work program and completed it in Space Coast, Florida. Ready4Work helped me in a lot of ways, especially with my social skills. The program offers access to so many resources. After graduating, I was about to take an advanced machinery class for free because I thought I might go into that field. Even though I didn’t end up in that career, I gained useful knowledge and skills that I still use today.

One thing I really remember from the program was learning how to handle conflict and tough situations in a positive way. The staff really advocate for you. Since I had never had a job before, I didn’t think I had anything to put on a resume, but they asked me questions and showed me how to pull skills from my life experience. They helped me build a great resume.

What stood out the most to me during the three weeks of class was the tech class in the last week. I learned a lot about navigating the internet, which has helped me so much since then.”

“At the time, I didn’t know what was coming next in my life, but Operation New Hope encouraged, inspired, and prepared me for the workforce.”

“It showed me what to expect in a business environment, how to interact with coworkers, and how to deal with different circumstances. I got to practice those situations, and it showed me that there’s a better way to handle things than what I had learned growing up.

The staff were always supportive. Anything I was interested in or wanted to try, they made it happen. They didn’t just want me to get a job, they wanted me to pursue a career I actually cared about. Ready4Work gave me hope.”

“After graduating from the program, my whole life changed. Now, I have a full-time job, my own car, an apartment, and I’m sober and happy. I’m building something to last. I have two kids, a son and a daughter. I was an addict coming in and out of their lives while they were growing up, but when I entered transitional housing, I started seeing them on a weekly basis. I had to let go of the things that were hurting our relationship, and we’ve been working on it ever since. Now, we spend time together every week.

Today, I work in Titusville at Curative Care Center doing outreach. This September will mark one year there. The center offers STD and HIV testing, treatment, and preventative medications. I drive our mobile unit to low-income areas to offer free testing, provide resources, and help connect people to care. I facilitate appointments and advocate for my clients. I’ve really enjoyed being able to provide these services to people who might not otherwise have access.

Every few weeks, I even bring our mobile unit back to Operation New Hope. I offer testing there and get to see the staff, who really are my friends. It’s a full-circle feeling to come back, talk to the clients, and let them know that I was in their shoes not too long ago. I try to tell all of them to take the program seriously and make the most of it.

Ready4Work had a major impact on my life. It helped me take those first steps toward building something new. It helped restore my hope and made me believe in myself again.”

“Even though I had no work experience, ONH helped me realize that there were things I could do that I had never thought I could.”

“To anyone who’s in a situation like I was, I’d say, “Don’t give up. Take it one step at a time. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but it does happen. The right thing will come, but it just takes time. If you’re thinking about coming to ONH, give it your all. If you really want to change your life, you will. Dress and show up as the person you want to become. Know that you can do anything you set your mind to.”

“To me, hope means believing, trusting, and having faith in what you can’t yet see. It’s knowing that things can get better.”

Share this post

Operation New Hope Celebrates One Year of Impact in Tampa Bay

Marketing Admin — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 17:47:30 +0000

Operation New Hope Celebrates One Year of Impact in Tampa Bay

Operation New Hope
July 22, 2025
Blog

This month marks one full year since Operation New Hope opened its doors in St. Petersburg and Tampa, and what a year it has been. Since launching services in the Tampa Bay region in July 2024, we’ve had the privilege of supporting hundreds of individuals as they reenter their communities after incarceration. With the help of local partners, we’ve expanded our mission to deliver meaningful second chances and brighter futures across Florida.

Founded in Jacksonville in 1999, Operation New Hope is a nonprofit reentry organization that has spent over 26 years helping people rebuild their lives after involvement with the criminal justice system. Today, 1 in 3 Americans has a criminal record, yet this population continues to face countless barriers that perpetuate the cycle of poverty and incarceration. With Florida’s incarceration rate exceeding the national average, we remain committed to providing opportunities for those ready to move forward and achieve their goals, whether that means owning a home, earning a driver’s license, maintaining sobriety, building a career, reconnecting with loved ones, or living with purpose.

Through our nationally recognized Ready4Work program, we offer comprehensive support including case management, job training, mental health services, help obtaining vital documents, transitional housing referrals, and connections to living-wage employment. We believe that with the right support, reentry success is possible, and that second chances strengthen not only individuals but entire communities.

Operation New Hope expanded into Tampa Bay in 2024 to address the growing need for reentry support in two of Florida’s most populous counties. With poverty rates exceeding 20% in some neighborhoods and unemployment among formerly incarcerated individuals topping 27%, the demand for second chances was undeniable. Backed by strong local partnerships and the support of leaders like Mayors Ken Welch and Jane Castor, the combination of high population density, community need, and civic alignment made Pinellas and Hillsborough counties a clear choice for Operation New Hope’s next phase.

What We Do Works

According to the Florida Department of Corrections, the statewide 3-year recidivism rate is 25.7%. For that same period, our Ready4Work program reports a 3-year recidivism rate of just 8.64%. That means program participants are nearly three times less likely to return to incarceration, a result that not only strengthens families and communities, but also reduces the financial burden of corrections on Florida taxpayers. Reentry support is a proven public safety solution and an investment in a more equitable future.

These efforts align with broader public safety gains across the region. The Tampa Police Department recently reported a continued decline in crime during the first half of 2025 compared to the same time last year, with violent crime down 19% and overall crime down 22%. These promising statistics underscore the importance of community-based solutions like reentry services in helping create safer neighborhoods.

“These numbers are more than just stats, they represent individuals in our community, real stories, and real hope,” said Natasha Goodley, Operation New Hope’s Tampa Bay Regional Director. “We’re strengthening communities across Tampa Bay, one person at a time.”

In addition to serving clients, Operation New Hope has hosted several events to engage the community and celebrate progress. Notable moments include the attendance of St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch at the St. Pete 100 Graduates Celebration in April 2025 and the participation of Tampa’s Mayor Jane Castor at our Tampa Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in October of 2024.

Clients at both sites have the opportunity to complete vocational trainings that prepare them for living-wage careers. The most common job placements have been in construction and restaurant services—industries that offer accessible pathways to stability. One of our most popular vocational programs at both sites is the forklift certification.

In just one year, our Tampa and St. Pete teams have made a remarkable impact:

A Year of Growth and Community Impact:

This progress would not be possible without the generous support of our local partners. We’re especially grateful to the cities of Tampa and St. Petersburg, our housing and employment partners, and the many community organizations that have welcomed and collaborated with us.

Building a safer, stronger Florida takes all of us, and our organization is proud to be part of a collaborative Statewide Reentry Network that is creating opportunities, growing the workforce, supporting stronger economies and safer neighborhoods.

As we celebrate this milestone, we remain focused on the future. Operation New Hope is committed to expanding our impact across Tampa Bay and throughout Florida. One year is just the beginning as hope continues to expand its reach.

Share this post

Sharing Hope in Tampa Bay Through Innovative Media

Marketing Admin — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 17:13:37 +0000

Sharing Hope in Tampa Bay Through Innovative Media

If you’ve been out and about in downtown Tampa, you may have spotted Operation New Hope on the move. That’s all thanks to our new collaboration with Orange Barrel Media (OBM), whose innovative digital kiosks are spreading the word about second chances across Tampa Bay.

Founded in 2004, Orange Barrel Media is a national leader in out-of-home advertising, known for blending art, technology, and community impact. Through their sister company, IKE Smart City, they’ve installed interactive digital kiosks—known as IKEs—in urban centers across the country. These kiosks, placed on city sidewalks and public spaces, feature interactive touchscreens, an engaging suite of applications, and integrated features that support placemaking initiatives. They serve as dynamic hubs for sharing local information, promoting civic engagement, and now, spreading the word about hope through free reentry services.

Reaching People Where They Are

In April 2025, OBM generously partnered with Operation New Hope to feature information about our free reentry services on more than 30 IKE kiosks throughout Tampa. These high-traffic, street-level touchpoints allow passersby to learn about the support we offer, including career training, transitional housing, mental health services, job placement, and more.

This increased visibility is especially important as we continue to grow our presence in the Tampa Bay area. Since launching our programs in Tampa and St. Petersburg in July 2024, we’ve already served hundreds of individuals as Florida’s Statewide Reentry Network. With the support of Orange Barrel Media, we’re able to connect with more people who may not yet know that hope is just around the corner.

A Shared Vision for Community Impact

“We first learned about Operation New Hope through our outreach in Tampa as we looked to build meaningful partnerships with organizations making a direct impact in the community,” shared Orange Barrel Media. “The work OHN does to create sustainable opportunities for individuals affected by the criminal justice system is not only important, it’s transformative.”

OBM’s support is part of a larger commitment to corporate social responsibility and community engagement. Their IKE kiosks are designed to connect residents and visitors with what’s happening in their city, from local events and services to civic resources.

“Through our community engagement program, we work hand in hand with nonprofit organizations to amplify their work and help people access support systems they may not even know exist,” OBM added. “Offering this opportunity to Operation New Hope was a natural extension of that commitment. Their mission deserves to be seen, shared, and celebrated.”

The kiosks showcase ONH information and allow users to:

Scan a QR code to visit our website
View directions and public transportation routes to our office
Access client reviews, office hours, and contact information

A Campaign for Connection and Change

Together, our goal is simple: connect people to hope. Whether it’s someone just released from incarceration, a family member searching for support, or a passerby inspired to get involved, we hope this campaign brings reentry services into clearer focus across Tampa.

“We hope this campaign increases awareness of the services Operation New Hope offers and reaches those who need support the most, whether directly or through someone they know,” OBM said. “We also hope it sparks conversations around reentry and opportunity. At its core, the campaign is about connecting people to life-changing resources, and we want it to be a catalyst for opportunity and renewed hope across Tampa.

We are incredibly grateful for Orange Barrel Media’s generosity, innovation, and belief in second chances. By using their platform to amplify our message, they are helping ensure that everyone, regardless of their past, is aware of the opportunities available to them throughout the state of Florida.

Blog – Operation New Hope

Celebrating New Beginnings: Space Coast Open House

Celebrating New Beginnings: Space Coast Open House

Share this post

Read More...

Dressing for Success: Chandler’s Hope Clothes Closet Supports Ready4Work Clients in Jacksonville

Dressing for Success: Chandler’s Hope Clothes Closet Supports Ready4Work Clients in Jacksonville

About Chandler’s Hope

Bringing Hope — and Style — to Ready4Work

Empowering Confidence and Second Chances

Community Partnerships

Thank you for being Second Chance Supporters and helping our clients look — and feel — Ready4Work.

Read More...

From Hiring Partner to Workforce Leader: Melissa’s Journey with Operation New Hope

From Hiring Partner to Workforce Leader: Melissa’s Journey with Operation New Hope

A Full-Circle Moment

Why Second Chance Hiring Works

Building a Stronger Community Together

Improve Your Team & Organization

Share this post

Read More...

From Start to Finish: Hope Starts Here 5K Inspires Change

From Start to Finish: Hope Starts Here 5K Inspires Change

Running for Second Chances

Community Support on Display

Impact Beyond the Finish Line

Thank you, Orlando, for running with us! This event showed that when a community comes together, second chances become possible.

Together, we go the distance—for reentry, for hope, and for a stronger community.

Share this post

Read More...

Operation New Hope Space Coast Has a New Home

Operation New Hope Space Coast Has a New Home

Supporting Second Chances in Brevard County

How Ready4Work Helps

Our New Facility

A Growing Community of Support

Want to get involved?

Share this post

Read More...

Hope and Healthcare: USF’s Mo-Bull Clinic Joins Operation New Hope to Serve Returning Citizens

Hope and Healthcare: USF’s Mo-Bull Clinic Joins Operation New Hope to Serve Returning Citizens

Accessible Care for ONH Clients

About the Mo-Bull Nurse Medical Clinic

Meeting a Critical Need

Are you a current Ready4Work client or alumni in Tampa or St. Pete?

Schedule your appointment today!

Learn more about where the Mo-Bull Nursing clinic serves the Tampa Bay area, and how you can support!

Share this post

Read More...

Voices of Hope Update: Tanaine Jenkins – Florida State Organizer, REFORM Alliance

Voices of Hope Update: Tanaine Jenkins – Florida State Organizer, REFORM Alliance

For Tanaine, entrepreneurship is more than business, it’s purpose. “If what you’re doing doesn’t fulfill you, don’t do it. This is purposeful work. When you love what you do, it isn’t a job—it’s joy.”

Her message to those just starting their reentry journey is simple but powerful:“You are enough. Your name is not felon, inmate, or worthless—your name is your name. Don’t answer to anything else.”

She also shares a perspective shift that has shaped her life:

Get Involved

Share this post

Read More...

Voices of Hope – Shannon B.

Voices of Hope – Shannon B.

“At the time, I didn’t know what was coming next in my life, but Operation New Hope encouraged, inspired, and prepared me for the workforce.”

“Even though I had no work experience, ONH helped me realize that there were things I could do that I had never thought I could.”

Share this post

Read More...

Operation New Hope Celebrates One Year of Impact in Tampa Bay

Operation New Hope Celebrates One Year of Impact in Tampa Bay

What We Do Works

In just one year, our Tampa and St. Pete teams have made a remarkable impact:

A Year of Growth and Community Impact:

Share this post

Read More...

Sharing Hope in Tampa Bay Through Innovative Media

Sharing Hope in Tampa Bay Through Innovative Media

Reaching People Where They Are

A Shared Vision for Community Impact

The kiosks showcase ONH information and allow users to:

Scan a QR code to visit our website

View directions and public transportation routes to our office

Access client reviews, office hours, and contact information

A Campaign for Connection and Change

Share this post

Her message to those just starting their reentry journey is simple but powerful:
“You are enough. Your name is not felon, inmate, or worthless—your name is your name. Don’t answer to anything else.”