Second Chance Supporters – Operation New Hope https://operationnewhope.org Building a Statewide Reentry Network Wed, 12 Nov 2025 15:23:02 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.1 https://operationnewhope.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/favicon.webp Second Chance Supporters – Operation New Hope https://operationnewhope.org 32 32 Dressing for Success: Chandler’s Hope Clothes Closet Supports Ready4Work Clients in Jacksonville https://operationnewhope.org/dressing-for-success-chandlers-hope-clothes-closet-supports-ready4work-clients-in-jacksonville/ https://operationnewhope.org/dressing-for-success-chandlers-hope-clothes-closet-supports-ready4work-clients-in-jacksonville/#respond Thu, 06 Nov 2025 16:49:24 +0000 https://operationnewhope.org/?p=23960

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

Chandler’s Hope founder Michele Holbrook and volunteer Jeanie at ONH’s Jacksonville office.

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.

Ready4Work participants selecting professional attire from the Chandler’s Hope mobile clothing closet.
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.
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Hope and Healthcare: USF’s Mo-Bull Clinic Joins Operation New Hope to Serve Returning Citizens https://operationnewhope.org/hope-and-healthcare-usfs-mo-bull-clinic-joins-operation-new-hope-to-serve-returning-citizens/ https://operationnewhope.org/hope-and-healthcare-usfs-mo-bull-clinic-joins-operation-new-hope-to-serve-returning-citizens/#respond Mon, 08 Sep 2025 18:15:17 +0000 https://operationnewhope.org/?p=23387

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!

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Sharing Hope in Tampa Bay Through Innovative Media https://operationnewhope.org/sharing-hope-in-tampa-bay-through-innovative-media/ https://operationnewhope.org/sharing-hope-in-tampa-bay-through-innovative-media/#respond Fri, 18 Jul 2025 17:13:37 +0000 https://operationnewhope.org/?p=22884

Sharing Hope in Tampa Bay Through Innovative Media

Operation New Hope featured on an IKE kiosk at Curtis Hixon Park in downtown Tampa.

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.

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High School Student Assembles 50 Hygiene Kits to Support Returning Citizens https://operationnewhope.org/high-school-student-assembles-50-hygiene-kits-to-support-returning-citizens/ https://operationnewhope.org/high-school-student-assembles-50-hygiene-kits-to-support-returning-citizens/#respond Wed, 11 Jun 2025 19:10:48 +0000 https://operationnewhope.org/?p=22609

High School Student Assembles 50 Hygiene Kits to Support Returning Citizens

Nadav standing with 50 Welcome Home Hygiene Kits at Operation New Hope's Jacksonville Office.

Recently, Operation New Hope had the pleasure of welcoming a very special donation from a young leader in the Jacksonville community. Nadav Bagaria, an incoming sophomore at Stanton College Preparatory School, organized a toiletry drive and assembled 50 Welcome Home Kits valued at over $500, which he personally delivered to our Jacksonville office. These kits, filled with essential hygiene items like body wash, combs, toothbrushes, and more, will go directly to individuals participating in our Ready4Work program, a career development initiative for people with a history of justice involvement. For those returning from incarceration, access to basic necessities is a vital first step toward stability and self-worth.

Thanks to Nadav’s thoughtful initiative, 50  individuals will have what they need to feel clean and confident as they prepare for job interviews and reenter the workforce.

We spoke with Nadav to learn more about what inspired this project, how he brought it to life, and what he hopes others take away from his impact.

What inspired you to create Welcome Home Kits for people returning from incarceration? Was this part of a school assignment, club, or personal initiative?

I was inspired to create Welcome Home Kits after learning about the challenges people face when they’re released from jail or prison. This wasn’t part of a school assignment or club, it was a personal initiative. I wanted to do something meaningful that could help give people a fresh start. I believe everyone deserves a second chance, and being able to feel clean and presentable can make a big difference in how someone sees themselves. I’m hoping to start a club at my high school to organize toiletry drives like this on a larger scale.

 

 

How did you gather the supplies and support needed for this project?

I created an online sign-up form where people could choose which toiletries to donate—things like shampoo, deodorant, razors, and toothpaste. I also gave people the option to contribute money so I could purchase items on their behalf. I explained how these small items can help someone feel more confident and ready for a new start, and people really responded. Over a few weeks, I collected all the supplies and then assembled them into kits for Operation New Hope to distribute.

What did you learn through this experience about reentry or giving back to the community?

I learned how hard it can be for people to reenter society after incarceration. Even if they’re trying to move forward, they often face stigma and limited support. This project helped me understand that even small gestures can go a long way. Giving back doesn’t have to be complicated—it just needs to come from a place of empathy and respect. It also reminded me that social justice includes helping people after they’ve served their time, not just before.

What do you hope the people who receive your kits will feel or experience?

I hope they feel seen, valued, and encouraged. I want them to know that their community supports their journey. My hope is that these kits help them feel a little more confident and hopeful as they take the first steps into a new chapter of their lives. Everyone deserves a chance to start fresh.

 

 

At Operation New Hope, we are continually inspired by individuals of all ages who support second chances in meaningful ways.

Nadav’s drive is a perfect example of youth leadership and community action in support of Florida’s reentry population. Projects like this are a great opportunity for students in need of service hours, as well as faith groups and businesses looking to make an impact.

Thank you, Nadav, for your generosity and advocacy! You are ensuring that our clients feel confident, respected, and seen as they rejoin the workforce.

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Jet HomeLoans Donates Over 50 Laptops to Expand Digital Access for Returning Citizens https://operationnewhope.org/jet-homeloans-donates-over-50-laptops-to-expand-digital-access-for-returning-citizens/ https://operationnewhope.org/jet-homeloans-donates-over-50-laptops-to-expand-digital-access-for-returning-citizens/#respond Thu, 29 May 2025 15:31:37 +0000 https://operationnewhope.org/?p=22490

Jet HomeLoans Donates Over 50 Laptops to Expand Digital Access for Returning Citizens

The Jet HomeLoans & ONH Team at Operation New Hope's Jacksonville Office.

On Thursday, May 22, 2025, Operation New Hope had the privilege of welcoming the Jet HomeLoans team to our Jacksonville office for a visit that will have a lasting impact across the state of Florida. They arrived with an incredibly generous donation of 51 laptops to support digital access and technology training for clients navigating their reentry journeys.

As Florida’s Statewide Reentry Network, Operation New Hope is committed to removing barriers to employment and self-sufficiency for people with past justice involvement. This generous gift from Jet HomeLoans will allow us to equip even more clients with the digital tools and skills they need to succeed and remain competitive in today’s job market. The laptops will be distributed across our tech labs at program locations throughout the state and used to support hands-on instruction during Technology Bootcamp, a core component of our nationally recognized Ready4Work program.

In the Technology Bootcamp portion of Ready4Work, clients gain essential computer literacy skills, including managing email, building resumes, creating LinkedIn profiles, and conducting online job searches. Thanks to this donation, our tech labs will be better equipped to serve more participants at once, offering greater flexibility and expanding access as program enrollment grows. This support is especially impactful, as lack of access to technology is a common barrier for many individuals returning home from incarceration.

We are deeply grateful to Jet HomeLoans for being a committed Second Chance Supporter. As a mortgage lender focused on helping clients build their future through homeownership, Jet HomeLoans also prioritizes investing in the communities they serve. They understand that empowerment comes not only from stable housing but also from meaningful employment. Both are essential to achieving long-term stability and reducing recidivism. We are honored that they chose Operation New Hope to receive this impactful contribution.

During their visit, seven members of the Jet HomeLoans team joined us for a presentation about our mission and impact, followed by a tour of our Jacksonville facility. They had the opportunity to see the tech lab in action, observe the Ready4Work classroom, and witness firsthand how their donation will directly support individuals reentering the Jacksonville community.

This generous partnership was made possible through the coordination of Operation New Hope’s Operations and Compliance Coordinator Kaitlin Mersnick and the support of Jet HomeLoans‘ IT team, including Jesi Pagan, and Benjamin Olsen, who ensured the laptops were ready for use and delivery to our facility.

To the entire Jet HomeLoans team, thank you for helping us bridge the gap in digital access for our clients and for believing in the power of second chances. Your investment in our mission will create a lasting impact and help more people rediscover opportunity through technology education.

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Turner Construction Helps Women Step Confidently Into the Workforce https://operationnewhope.org/turner-construction-helps-women-step-confidently-into-the-workforce/ https://operationnewhope.org/turner-construction-helps-women-step-confidently-into-the-workforce/#respond Thu, 13 Mar 2025 15:25:15 +0000 https://operationnewhope.org/?p=21445

Turner Construction Helps Women Step Confidently Into the Workforce

Turner Construction Team, ONH Staff, and Commissioner Rose with Donated Work Boots.

Operation New Hope is incredibly grateful that Turner Construction continues to be a Second Chance Supporter, ensuring that the women enrolled in our programs have the tools and resources they need to succeed.

On March 7th, 2025, Turner generously donated 20 pairs of high-quality work boots, helping women feel more prepared to step into new career opportunities. This marks the third consecutive year that Turner Construction has chosen to support our organization through their donations.

At Operation New Hope, our Ready4Work program provides comprehensive job training, mental health support, and career development services to returning citizens, empowering them to find and retain meaningful employment. Many of our clients are eager to enter industries like construction, logistics, and skilled trades, but lack the proper work attire needed to get started. By providing durable, job-ready boots, Turner is removing one more obstacle and allowing these women to focus on building their futures with confidence.

During Turner Construction Florida’s visit to our Orlando program location, we were honored to also welcome City Commissioner Shaniqua “Shan” Rose of District Five, who joined us for a tour to see firsthand the impact of reentry support. Turner’s generosity extends beyond Orlando, as clients at our Tampa program location will also receive a donation of work boots.

Equipping Clients for Success 

Turner Construction’s ongoing commitment to second chances highlights the power of strong community partnerships and the vital role that employers and businesses play in supporting reentry. Their investment in individuals striving to create a better future is a testament to how opportunity and support can transform lives.

We cannot thank Turner Construction enough for their continued support and generosity! By providing work boots, they are doing more than donating gear—they are giving women the confidence to step forward and build successful careers.

Interested in Joining Turner Construction in Supporting Second Chances?

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Building Strong Financial Futures: VyStar Credit Union Visits Operation New Hope https://operationnewhope.org/building-strong-financial-futures-vystar-credit-union-visits-operation-new-hope/ https://operationnewhope.org/building-strong-financial-futures-vystar-credit-union-visits-operation-new-hope/#respond Mon, 10 Mar 2025 19:29:02 +0000 https://operationnewhope.org/?p=21383

Building Strong Financial Futures: VyStar Credit Union Visits Operation New Hope

Sabrina Spann & David Aubuchon of VyStar Credit Union Visit ONH.

On February 24, 2025, Operation New Hope had the pleasure of welcoming David Aubuchon, Business Development Leader, and Sabrina Spann, Assistant Branch Manager, from VyStar Credit Union to our Jacksonville program location. Their visit to our financial literacy class, part of the Ready4Work program, provided our clients with crucial insights on Identity Theft and Fraud Prevention—an essential component of financial stability, especially for individuals reentering society after incarceration.

Beyond their informative session, the VyStar team also gave our clients the opportunity to apply for VyStar membership. Access to reliable banking services is a critical step in rebuilding financial independence, and we are thrilled to share that 15 clients were approved for membership.

VyStar Credit Union membership is open to individuals who live or work in designated counties in Florida and Georgia, including Jacksonville. Applicants must meet eligibility requirements, provide valid identification, and open an account with a minimum deposit. For many of our clients, gaining access to a credit union means having a safe place to manage their finances, build credit, and work toward long-term financial goals.

The impact of VyStar’s engagement doesn’t stop there. Mr. Aubuchon and Ms. Spann are eager to continue their support of Operation New Hope’s clients. They plan to return in March 2025 to provide another opportunity for new incoming clients to apply for membership. By leading mock interviews and similar initiatives, professionals have meaningful opportunities to volunteer their time in support of our mission. 

Empowering Second Chances Through Financial Literacy

At Operation New Hope, we recognize that financial literacy is a cornerstone of a stable future. For individuals reentering society after incarceration, understanding banking, budgeting, and fraud prevention is crucial to breaking the cycle of recidivism. Financial education empowers individuals to make informed decisions, build credit, secure housing, and ultimately achieve financial independence.

We are grateful for partners like VyStar Credit Union, who are committed to investing in the Jacksonville community and supporting second chances through financial education and workforce development. Their dedication to providing resources and hands-on learning opportunities makes a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.

As we expand our financial literacy efforts, we look forward to welcoming VyStar back and exploring new ways to equip our clients with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive. Thank you, VyStar Credit Union, for being a champion of second chances and financial empowerment!

Ready4Work Participants Learning About Fraud Prevention from VyStar Professionals.

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Women’s Giving Alliance Visits Operation New Hope to Support Jacksonville Reentry https://operationnewhope.org/womens-giving-alliance-visits-operation-new-hope-to-support-jacksonville-reentry/ https://operationnewhope.org/womens-giving-alliance-visits-operation-new-hope-to-support-jacksonville-reentry/#respond Wed, 29 Jan 2025 20:49:22 +0000 https://operationnewhope.org/?p=19541

Women’s Giving Alliance Visits Operation New Hope to Support Jacksonville Reentry

The Women's Giving Alliance Visits Operation New Hope.

Jacksonville’s Women’s Giving Alliance (WGA) kicked off the new year with a meaningful visit to Operation New Hope’s Jacksonville program location for a Second Chance Showcase and an interactive volunteer experience. This event provided WGA members with the opportunity to engage with our mission, connect with clients, and witness firsthand the transformative power of second chances.

During their visit, WGA members toured the Jacksonville facility, learning more about the Ready4Work program and its impact on individuals returning from incarceration. Ready4Work provides participants with comprehensive career development training, including life skills, employment readiness, financial literacy, and a technology boot camp—all designed to equip clients with the tools they need to succeed.

The highlight of the day was attending a special Ready4Work graduation ceremony, where 17 clients celebrated their successful completion of the program. These graduates courageously shared their personal journeys—reflecting on what hope means to them, the challenges they’ve overcome, and how they are cultivating a bright future for themselves.

Hands-On Commitment to Reentry Success

As part of their visit, WGA members assembled over 30 Welcome Home Hygiene Kits for ONH clients. These kits, filled with essential hygiene items, help individuals feel confident and supported as they transition back into the community. A fresh start begins with dignity, and we are incredibly grateful to WGA for their generosity in making that possible.

Beyond their hands-on involvement, the Women’s Giving Alliance has been a vital partner in expanding our services. Last year, Operation New Hope received a grant from WGA to launch a pilot program for incarcerated mothers, designed to support women preparing for release from Florida’s women’s prisons.

This initiative is similar to InsideOut Dad, a program that Operation New Hope delivers in partnership with the National Fatherhood Initiative, which equips fathers with tools to reconnect with their children. The new motherhood program will focus on strengthening family bonds, empowering mothers with resources for reentry, and supporting the next generation in breaking cycles of incarceration.

WGA Building Welcome Home Hygiene Kits.

Ready4Work Graduation:

One graduate, Brandon, shared,

“Operation New Hope gave me a second chance at getting it right. I finally have a life that I am proud of. I have peace, I have love, and I have happiness. Thank you to all who came to support me.”

Another client, Kelly, spoke about the changes she is making in her life and her vision for a prosperous future. She shared,

“Hope is when the way you finish looks different than your start.”

Brandon, Ready4Work Graduate, Jacksonville.
Ready4Work Graduation, Jacksonville.
Kelly, Ready4Work Graduate, Jacksonville.

These clients’ stories served as powerful reminders of the resilience and strength within each person seeking a new beginning. At Operation New Hope, we believe in people’s ability to transform their lives through commitment and hard work.

Gratitude for the Women’s Giving Alliance

We deeply appreciate the continued partnership of the Women’s Giving Alliance and their commitment to uplifting lives through advocacy, service, and philanthropy. Their support not only helps individuals rebuild after incarceration but also strengthens families and communities.

Thank you, WGA, for your dedication, generosity, and impact in Jacksonville and beyond.

Build Welcome Home Kits

These kits include essential hygiene items like shampoo, body wash, and toothbrushes, helping clients care for themselves as they start this new chapter of their lives. There’s no minimum supply requirement, making this an ideal opportunity for individuals to contribute or for larger groups to organize a supply drive.

Attend a Ready4Work Tour & Graduation

See how our team is working to develop safer communities, stronger economies, and more stable families. Tour our program facility in Jacksonville or Orlando and join us in celebrating our clients as they graduate from our nationally acclaimed Ready4Work program.

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Celebrating Generosity: Spherion’s Support of Second Chances https://operationnewhope.org/celebrating-generosity-spherions-support-of-second-chances/ https://operationnewhope.org/celebrating-generosity-spherions-support-of-second-chances/#respond Wed, 11 Dec 2024 17:45:51 +0000 https://operationnewhope.org/?p=19037

Celebrating Generosity: Spherion’s Support of Second Chances

The holiday season is a time for giving, and last Friday, Spherion exemplified the true spirit of generosity and community support. We were thrilled to welcome their team to Operation New Hope as they spent the day making a tangible impact on the lives of our clients. Their dedication and kindness remind us why partnerships are so crucial in helping individuals and families transition successfully into Florida communities.

Empowering Communities Through Local Connections

Spherion is a leading staffing and workforce solutions provider with a strong commitment to supporting local communities. With offices across the country, Spherion connects job seekers with meaningful employment opportunities while partnering with businesses to address their hiring needs. Beyond their professional services, Spherion is dedicated to giving back, exemplified by their involvement with non-profits like Operation New Hope.

Welcome Home Kits: Building a Foundation for Success

The Spherion team rolled up their sleeves and assembled Welcome Home Kits packed with essential hygiene items that they generously brought in. These kits play a critical role in supporting our clients as they transition home after incarceration. For many, these items represent more than just necessities—they’re a step toward rebuilding confidence and stability.

Generosity Beyond Measure

In addition to their hands-on efforts, Spherion made a generous financial donation to support our mission. They presented a $1,000 check during our Ready4Work graduation ceremony, a contribution that helps us continue providing the comprehensive resources and services our clients need to succeed, including job training, housing support, and mental health services. This kind of support is invaluable, especially during the holiday season when needs are often greatest.

A Day to Remember: Second Chance Showcase and Graduation

Spherion also joined us for our Second Chance Showcase, something ONH hosts the 2nd Friday of every month. This is an opportunity to learn more about what Operation New Hope does and the impact of incarceration in our state and across the nation. They took the opportunity to tour our Jacksonville office, learning more about the Ready4Work program and the work done by  Operation New Hope to provide second chances.

The day culminated in a celebration of our latest Ready4Work graduates. These individuals have worked hard to complete our program, and their achievements are a testament to the transformative power of opportunity and support. Having the team from Spherion there to cheer them on made the occasion even more special.

A Season of Gratitude

As we reflect on this season of giving, we’re profoundly grateful for partners like Spherion. Their generosity and commitment to helping others create lasting change in our community. Together, we’re building a stronger, more supportive network for individuals seeking a fresh start.

Thank you, Spherion, for joining us and for making such a meaningful contribution to our mission. Your support helps us continue to provide hope and second chances to those who need it most. 

Spherion Team Assembling Welcome Home Kits at Operation New Hope.
Six Members of the Spherion Team Attend a Second Chance Showcase.
Hygiene Supplies Donated to Build Welcome Home KIts.

Build Welcome Home Kits With Your Team!

Building Welcome Home Kits is a wonderful way for both individuals and teams to give back and support people reentering our communities. Consider hosting a drive for hygiene supplies at your organization and coming together to assemble the kits as a group. Items like shampoo, conditioner, toothbrushes, and deodorant can make a world of difference, helping individuals feel welcomed and cared for as they transition home. This initiative is a meaningful way to promote generosity and compassion, especially with the holiday season approaching.

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New Partnership: Clothing with Purpose for Returning Citizens https://operationnewhope.org/new-partnership-clothing-with-purpose-for-returning-citizens/ https://operationnewhope.org/new-partnership-clothing-with-purpose-for-returning-citizens/#respond Wed, 16 Oct 2024 16:14:23 +0000 https://operationnewhope.org/?p=18454

New Partnership: Clothing with Purpose for Returning Citizens

PSM's Director of Logistics, Neil, poses with Marketing Specialist Ally in front of donation items.

At Operation New Hope, we’re always looking for new ways to support our clients as they transition from incarceration back into their communities. Today, we’re excited to announce a new partnership with Presbyterian Social Ministries (PSM), a Jacksonville-based organization that shares our commitment to helping individuals rebuild their lives.

A couple of weeks ago, our team picked up the first clothing donation from PSM’s “Clothing with Purpose” program. This generous donation included seven boxes filled with men’s and women’s clothing in various sizes, valued at over $1,400. These items will go directly to our clients, ensuring they have clean, fresh clothes as they begin their journey of reentry.

PSM’s mission is to transform lives through compassion and connection, addressing both immediate needs and long-term challenges in the Jacksonville community. Their “Clothing with Purpose” program provides gently used and new clothing to individuals in need, offering dignity and hope through something as simple as a fresh outfit. We had the opportunity to tour their facility during the pickup, learning about their process for receiving, organizing, and distributing these essential items. It was inspiring to see the care and attention PSM puts into making sure clothing is ready for those who need it most.

We understand that something as simple as a new outfit can make a world of difference in someone’s confidence and sense of self-worth. By providing these essential items, we can help alleviate some of the stress that often accompanies reentry. For many of our Ready4Work clients, access to appropriate clothing is a critical first step toward feeling prepared for job interviews, workplace settings, and everyday life. Through this partnership, we are equipping returning citizens with the resources they need to confidently reintegrate into the workforce and their communities.

We are thrilled to begin partnering with PSM and look forward to the lasting, positive impact it will have on those we serve. By working together, we’re empowering returning citizens to take control of their futures with dignity, hope, and a fresh start.

Stay tuned for more updates on how this collaboration continues to make a difference in our community!

Interested in Partnering with Us?

Are you interested in partnering with Operation New Hope to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals returning from incarceration? There are several ways to get involved:
Employment Partners

Help provide opportunities by hiring participants of the Ready4Work program, giving them a chance to build a sustainable future.

Transitional Housing Partners

Provide safe, supportive housing for individuals in the reentry process.

Donate

Financial contributions go directly to supporting our life-changing programs, Ready4Release, Ready4Work, and Ready4Success.

Volunteer Opportunities

Engage with our community by leading Mock Interviews, attending a Second Chance Showcase, or assembling Welcome Home Kits.

Join us in creating second chances and transforming lives. Together, we can foster hope, reduce recidivism, and build stronger communities. Reach out today to explore partnership opportunities that fit your resources and expertise. Let’s work together to make a difference!

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