Voices of Hope – Operation New Hope

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.

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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.”

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Voices of Hope – Braeden C.

Marketing Admin — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 16:42:47 +0000

Voices of Hope – Braeden C.

Operation New Hope
March 25, 2025
Blog, Voices of Hope

“I was born and raised on the East Coast. I left home at 13 years old and faced homelessness on and off over the years. When I came to Jacksonville, I ended up getting lost in substance abuse and really struggled to get out of that cycle. I remember just crying out and asking God to save me from the life I was living. I got arrested that evening. When I was incarcerated, another individual had mentioned Operation New Hope. When I was released, I was made aware my case had to be closed before I could enroll. A few weeks passed and I ended up in a sober living house. One week after moving in, my charges were dropped and my case was closed. I still felt pretty lost and had no idea how I would get back on track, so I went back to ONH which was a short three minute walk from the house. I was fortunate to be able to start the following Monday. Operation New Hope set me up for success; they covered three months of my stay at that sober living home.

The Ready4Work program reshaped my mentality. At this point, I hadn’t worked a 9-5 in about 5 years and I was pretty lost and had no confidence in reentering the workforce. ONH had everything I would need to completely turn that around.

The program gave me hope. I had an entire team of people standing right behind me with the intention to see me succeed. The staff at Operation New Hope were consistently encouraging myself and my peers to simply be the best versions of ourselves and provided us the tools to do just that. I am very grateful for my Case Manager Ciara’s encouragement. Whenever I had set a goal, she provided me resources and helped me make a game plan to achieve it.

“By the end of the third week of Ready4Work, the pressure was on to find a job. I had graduated the program and with all the tools in my tool belt and a newfound confidence, I attended a Job Fair. I went to every table and got some information from each one. I really found interest in the City of Jacksonville and Allied Security. From there I applied to a few entry-level positions with the city and would go on to attend an open interview with Allied.

A few days later I landed a seasonal position at the Supervisor of Elections Office. While working there I also worked to acquire my class D and G security certifications. Operation New Hope supported me in this journey as well helping me secure my D & G security license and my TWIC card.”

“At the end of the seasonal position, I got a call for an interview at the other city job I had applied to. I was hired as an Adoption Counselor at Animal Care Protective Services. I’ve always been passionate about helping animals and people and this job has given me the opportunity to do both. Every day I advocate for the welfare of animals and help connect people with an animal that fits their household. I recently started my career working for Allied as a part time security officer at the ports as well.

I have a dream of opening my own shelter. A shelter for homeless youth and animals. Where young people who have faced hardship can learn the responsibility of work and rebuild connections with animals who have also been left behind and need emotional support.

I am super grateful for the Ready4Work program because it gave me the confidence to believe in ME. I was so lost, starting over and had no idea how I would make it out of this cycle but in just 3 weeks I was given all the tools I needed to feel accomplished and get results. Now every goal I’ve set I have either met or surpassed. ONH sparked a match in me that relit a flame of passion, pride, and dedication. It showed me I can accomplish anything I set my mind to.”

Operation New Hope provides support and training to people impacted by the justice system, connecting them to the workforce, their families, & communities.

Our programs give people the tools needed to focus on the future and leave the past behind.

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Voices of Hope – Michael M.

Marketing Admin — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 15:36:46 +0000

Voices of Hope – Michael M.

Operation New Hope
September 9, 2024
Blog, Voices of Hope

“After 27 years of addiction, 2 years of living on the streets, and 6 visits to jail, I finally decided to enroll at Operation New Hope. There, I was given the opportunity to learn things I had long forgotten – things like resume writing and job interview skills. But the most important part of the program for me was the meeting setting and attending weekly art therapy sessions. Both helped me blossom socially after being introverted and antisocial for so long, lost in addiction and homelessness.

“I graduated from the Ready4Work program and continued to stay in sober living, but didn’t take any of the job connections initially offered. None of them felt like the right fit, so I worked odd jobs for about 9 months. However, I eventually had a wake up call that I needed to find a ‘real’ job. I knew I couldn’t go back into tattooing and remain on my sober path, or keep making ends meet with odd jobs, so one night, I prayed to get led into a good job. The very next morning, Ken from Operation New Hope called me and told me he had the perfect job opportunity for me – working at a detox facility. I said yes right away!

“I am now living purpose over a paycheck. What I learned at Operation New Hope has become the story that I share to help others. I have been at Tides Edge Recovery for 3 and 1/2 years, running 4 Art Therapy classes a week, and leading book studies and meditation sessions. I am a sponsor to 10 guys and my son is back in my life after 17 years of being lost in my drug addiction. I am going back to school to study counseling or therapy so I can pass the gift that I have on to others. I’ve grown to be a man who is reliable with an evolved personality that came out of the darkness of addiction. I was once so selfish and full of rage, but that has completely flipped in the last 4 years. I am now joyous, full of hope, and truly free.”

The Art of Hope

Michael is one of the artists we will be featuring at The Art of Hope on exhibit from October 10 through November 8, 2024. Presented at the UNF Lufrano Intercultural Gallery, Operation New Hope will exhibit works created by justice-involved artists to highlight how incarceration and art-making demand finding freedom in constraint and demonstrate that both require hope.

Save the Date – Opening Reception on October 10, 2024

Location: Lufrano Gallery, University of North Florida, 2nd Floor of Student Union, Building 58E, Suite 2401

Opening Reception: October 10, 2024, from 5:30 to 8:30 PM – Join us for an evening of art, drinks, and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets for the opening reception are $25 per person and sponsorships start at $1,000.

One of Michael’s drawings that he shared during Art Therapy when enrolled in Ready4Work

At Operation New Hope, we believe that we are all better than our worst mistake, worst day, or worst decision. We believe in people’s ability to transform their lives through commitment and hard work. We see it every day as we support our clients’ reentry and growth. With the skills learned and confidence gained from our Ready4Release, Ready4Work and Ready4Success programs, our participants go on to become productive community members and build successful careers earning living wages. Read more stories of transformation, success and hope!

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Voices of Hope – Alfredo D.

Marketing Admin — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 12:49:42 +0000

Voices of Hope – Alfredo D.

Operation New Hope
August 19, 2024
Blog, Voices of Hope

Alfredo in the kitchen at Clara White Mission where he now teaches culinary courses.

“I’ve been working as a chef most of my life, earning a great living. But when Covid happened and we lost a major account, I didn’t have much money coming in, got behind, and couldn’t pay for things like updating my car tag. So one day, I got pulled over and ticketed for my expired tag. Unfortunately, I had a friend in my car that day who was in possession of drugs, so we were both taken to jail. That’s when I got a real education on how the justice system works. Since I didn’t have money for bail, I ended up spending 11 days in jail for an expired tag.

“While in jail, God spoke to me and said that while I was busy crying about getting a ticket, I was surrounded by others in there who had serious problems. He told me I was there to help them out. I started offering translation services to people who couldn’t speak or read English, so they could better understand their charges. And that’s when I learned about The Bail Project, an organization that pays bail for those in need – for free. The next day, I met with Mr. Washington from The Bail Project and he told me I should be released that very night, and I was. I was so thankful, but worried that I didn’t have money or a car and didn’t know where to turn. And that’s when The Bail Project referred me to Operation New Hope.

“I signed up for the Ready4Work program to get help with housing at first, but I ended up getting so much more. The entire team at Operation New Hope has been great. They saw my years of experience as a chef and immediately got to work helping me find a job. My job coach told me that the Clara White Mission was looking for a culinary instructor, and even though I had never taught before, they offered me the job because of my years of kitchen experience. I’ve now been on the job for 3 months, and I’ve learned so much. I love working for a nonprofit and I’m even teaching some other clients from the Ready4Work program who are earning their classical kitchen training certificate.

“I’ve been behind for so long, but now it’s time to put up and move on, so I’m now setting new goals for myself. I’m going to be operating a food truck soon and planning to earn my Certified Dietary Managers credentials. My parents are getting older and moving down to Florida soon, so I hope to get a job in a hospital and help take care of them down the road. It’s more than just about food for me – it’s about life! I want to make my food heal people. I’m so thankful for The Bail Project and Operation New Hope being a part of the my journey.”

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Voices of Hope – Jazmin Y.

Marketing Admin — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 16:27:11 +0000

Voices of Hope – Jazmin Y.

Operation New Hope
August 16, 2024
Blog, Voices of Hope

“I am originally from New York and moved to Florida when I was 17 years old, a senior in high school. I got into an unhealthy relationship that lasted 7 or 8 years. We had a bad breakup, which led to me doing time. While I was in prison, I heard about Operation New Hope and started learning more about it and asking my family about it. I had a lot of goals for myself and my life for when I got out, so I decided to attend the Ready4Work program.

“I wanted my team to know that I was dedicated to not be in & out of prison. I wanted to truly change and was ready to be challenged. My team always supported me in that and pointed me in the right direction. I am so grateful to my Job Coach Mike, my Therapist Meredith, and my Case Manager Monae.

“I attended classes everyday and became acquainted with my job coach and team. I was very open and transparent with them. I was motivated to get to work on my goals and worked with them to set a plan. They made it so easy. The first thing I wanted to do was get a job to be able to support myself and my family. To do that, I knew I didn’t want a minimum wage job.

“They listened and set me up with some higher paying job options. While I was looking for these jobs, I held a position where I made $12 an hour, and after some searching found a job making $19.50 per hour. That position had a three-round interview process, I am a well-spoken and confident person so I was not nervous, but my team was still with me through all of it.

“My team helped me get my own place after being in transitional housing and helped me get my driver’s license. I had just relocated to Orlando alone, so I relied on them heavily for support. We were in constant communication, and they were with me every step of the way. Now in my new position I am able to work from home. As a mother, this was always the goal. I have my own place, my own vehicle, my driver’s license, and I am off probation. Even after my year after graduating from Ready4Work , my team said I can always reach out to them for any assistance.

“A goal I am currently working towards is getting my kids back. I am still not exactly where I want to be, but I have come a long way from where I was. I really believe that if you have the motivation, and support, you will be able to meet your goals. They go hand in hand, and you need both. Without one you are bound to stumble. I can see why so many people stumble without support, so I am grateful for the people that I have.”

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Voices of Hope Update-Father’s Day Edition with Fazil L.

Marketing Admin — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 17:40:23 +0000

Voices of Hope Update-Father’s Day Edition with Fazil L.

Operation New Hope
June 10, 2024
Blog, Voices of Hope

Founded in March 1999, Operation New Hope is celebrating our 25th anniversary this year, commemorating our legacy of transformative impact on the people and communities we serve. To mark this momentous occasion, we reached out to some of our former clients to see how they are doing now. Years after returning home, they are still applying what they have learned during their time here at Operation New Hope to achieve success and build a brighter future.

To celebrate Father’s Day this month, we also wanted to ask Fazil about his experience completing the InsideOut Dads program.

The InsideOut Dads Program is a transformative 12-week initiative designed specifically for incarcerated fathers, aimed at fostering responsible fatherhood and strengthening family bonds. Participants engage in activities and discussions that enhance parenting skills, emotional intelligence, and personal development, preparing them to be more present and effective parents upon their release.

Here is Fazil’s Voices of Hope Update:

What was your experience with InsideOut Dads?
“At first, I wanted to make sure it was legit. Ronnie Cage came in with a sincere and open heart. When I started the program, I didn’t have my daughter yet, but I had my adult son. We did not have any kind of relationship at the time. I was doing it to be there for other kids because I did not have a father in my life growing up. The class is what made me reach out to my son for the first time in his adult life.
My son is 30 now. Man, he’s a great kid. When I was away I used to write to him all the time, but right when I got out, he came up missing. But now he’s out and doing well. We have a cool relationship.
I couldn’t be a father to my son when he was coming up, but the program made such an impact on me I’ve been able to be a dad figure to others now that I’m out.”

What was your biggest takeaway from the InsideOut Dads program?

“Quality time. It is the small things that your kids will remember. Like their daddy pushing them on the swing. They won’t remember the things you get them, but they will remember the memories you made. Dad duties never stop. My little girl has ten pounds of energy! She’s going into gymnastics and basketball.”

What is an experience from InsideOut Dads that still impacts you today?

“Something I learned that I still remember is PRIDE. Please Remember I Destroyed Everything. I need to remember all the people that are counting on me.

Another thing we did was Mr. Cage had us write all the problems you’ve ever had on a sheet of paper. He said, “Now tear it up, and stick them under your feet.” Then he told us to walk around while holding them under our feet. It didn’t work. Dragging them across the floor is hard. Releasing them makes it easier to walk. That’s why you have to let that past stuff go.”

Why should incarcerated fathers complete InsideOut Dads?

“You should always have “kid lover” as a part of your resume. If these guys are for real with themselves, they are going to last a lot longer keeping their word with their kids. You are going to have an impact on the kids in your life regardless, but you need to sincerely prepare yourself to support them. It is not easy but it’s rewarding.”

What is your favorite part of being a dad?

“I really love my kids! My favorite part about being a Dad is everything. The good, the bad, and the ugly. The most fun part is seeing a smile on my daughter’s face. I could cry just thinking about it.”

What does Fatherhood mean to you?

A father is the most precious thing a child can have. Men and women bot play an important role. When you get a balance of man and woman you get a balanced result. Nurturing kids saves lives.”

What are you up to now?

“I have my own non-profit called Impact City. I am manifesting that ONH is going to partner with Impact City one day! I would love to partner with the organization because of how it has impacted me. I am forever indebted to ONH.”

What has been your happiest moment since being released?

“My happiest moments since release have been working with and connecting with kids. I love being a dad, and mentoring kids without a father figure in their life. It is all about valuing and loving them. I can’t let them down.”

What is one goal you have for the future?

“My dream is to save kids by mentoring them and doing prison prevention. We have to think about the generations after next. What is most important is leading by example.”

What motivates you?

“Waking up everyday and being able to try again.”

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Voices of Hope – James M.

Marketing Admin — Tue, 28 May 2024 18:13:51 +0000

Voices of Hope – James M.

Operation New Hope
May 28, 2024
Blog, Voices of Hope

“I was born in the project, grew up in poverty, and my whole family sold drugs. Even though I was a straight A student, I was living in a polluted environment, so I started hanging out with the wrong crowd. I got caught up in the street life and started doing robberies. I went to prison, but when I got out the first time, I went back to my old ways, and ended up right back inside. That’s when I realized that I had hit rock bottom. I had 3 reasons why I needed to change – my 3 kids – so I vowed to be different and committed myself to being a better father, family member, and citizen.

“I moved to Orlando for a fresh start and finally chose to go to rehab. After leaving rehab, I came straight to Operation New Hope and got help with everything I needed – sober living housing, training, and support. The staff was the best part and everyone at Operation New Hope was so supportive and caring.

“I took the Ready4Work program seriously because it was life or death for me. I graduated as Student of the Week and then enrolled in a 9 week vocational training program at the Home Builder Institute (HBI). I got up at 3:30 every morning to catch the bus to get there early because being on time is late. I worked hard in the HBI program and received certifications in Forklift, Intermediate Flaggers, OSHA 10, Green Building, and Carpentry. I graduated two weeks ago from HBI, and it was the first time I ever had a chance to wear a cap and gown. I now plan on getting into the carpentry apprenticeship program that starts in a few months.

“I’m still struggling with opportunities because of my record, but I know I’m going to be alright. I’ll be one-year sober on September 12 and continue to go to Recovery Connections and therapy at Operation New Hope. I am part of a church family now and give back by feeding the homeless. I have a great relationship with my kids who are now 12, 4, 3, and newborn. Everyone is so proud of me and that feels really good. I’m so grateful to my mother Marsha Denise Coger, my loving wife Anissa Dowe, and my supportive mother-in-law Luciana Slater. My goal is to start my own carpentry business, and because of all the training and support I have received from the team at Operation New Hope, I know that I can be a success.

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Voices of Hope Update- Crystal C.

Marketing Admin — Thu, 16 May 2024 19:51:54 +0000

Voices of Hope Update- Crystal C.

Here is Crystal’s Voices of Hope Update:

Looking back, what was the hardest thing about the first year after you were released?

“Reflecting on my first year, I recall a time filled with fear and uncertainty. Having spent the previous decade in prison, adjusting to newfound freedom was daunting.”

What are you up to now? Where are you working and how are you doing?

“Today, I proudly hold the position of Assistant Director of Operations at Camp Craft Cocktails. However, beyond my professional responsibilities, I devote my free time to serving as an inspiration to those who are incarcerated and striving to change societal perspectives.”

What have been the happiest moments since being released?
“Having the freedom to look down the road without seeing a fence is a profound feeling. Every day is a happy moment for me. Even if mentally or emotionally I’m at a low it’s about living through it and knowing that I have the power to decide my life.”

What have you learned about yourself in the time since going through the Ready4Work program?
“I am strong, smart, and intelligent. Ready4Work has taught me the importance of embracing my true self. I strive to be the leader I once needed and never feel ashamed of my past mistakes. They are part of my journey, shaping me into who I am today.”

What are your dreams and aspirations?
“My dream is to be the person who used her voice to help make change and pave the way for those who share my story.”

What achievements are you most proud of?
“My biggest achievement would be not only how far I’ve climbed the ladder in my profession, but also having the opportunity to return to a place where I was once incarcerated and bring hope to those beginning their journey to freedom. My greatest achievement is the positive impact I have on the lives of others.”

If you could change one thing about the criminal justice system, what would it be?
“We should strive to understand what led individuals to their actions and what can be done to help them become positive contributors to our community. It’s about addressing the root causes and providing support and opportunities for rehabilitation rather than solely focusing on punishment.”

What do you wish someone had told you about reentry?

“Your past does not dictate your future. There’s something greater awaiting you. While the road ahead may not be easy, remember that everything is possible with determination and resilience.”

How did incarceration and reentry change you?

“Incarceration played a significant role in shaping the person I am today. Despite its challenges, it provided a unique opportunity for self-focus without the distractions of the outside world, allowing me to work on improving myself for the future. The journey of reentry was far from easy, but with the love and support I received from Operation New Hope, I was able to embrace my true self and express my full potential.”

What does HOPE mean to you?
“Hope is seeing your second chance to truly live again, to embrace opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead.”

How do you hope your story can inspire or support others?
“I hope my story can shine a light and inspire anyone embarking on their path to not only physical freedom but also mental and emotional freedom. If I can build a successful life in just six years after knowing only the life of prison, then I believe you can build a successful life too.”

Is there anything else you would like to share?
“Second Chances matter, and so do you.”

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Voices of Hope – Chimekie J.

Marketing Admin — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 20:50:21 +0000

Voices of Hope – Chimekie J.

Operation New Hope
April 29, 2024
Blog, Voices of Hope

“After leaving a women’s residential facility, I went to Angel’s of Mercy transitional home in Sanford, Florida. A lot of the women living there have gone through the Ready4Work program at Operation New Hope and recommended I do the same. At first, I was worried it was going to be just like every other program, but it was far better than expected, and I’m so glad I went.

“The way the Operation New Hope staff interacts with us is really incredible. The counselors, job coaches, instructors, and case managers are so caring. From the very beginning, I was provided clothes and a hygiene kit. Then, they paid my rent for 3 months and provided weekly stipends. The interview prep and education assistance was so helpful, and I’m now enrolled in college to complete my GED.

“A month after completing the Ready4Work program, I started my own nonprofit – Meca’s HIV Awareness Foundation – with the mission of helping people with HIV and AIDS get the resources needed. Through my volunteer efforts and with help from my Ready4Work job coach, I was connected with the nonprofit Miracle of Love, where I now work full time as an HIV Peer Support Specialist. It’s my job to support people and let them know what we need to do to keep going so that we can be there for others who need us.

“I’m almost 2 years sober and staying focused on not practicing old behaviors. I’m happy to share that one of my Board Members learned about how my car kept breaking down and I was having to walk home from school and work, and so she gave me a 2014 Mercedes to use. Plus, it came with a full tank of gas! All I have to do is pay the insurance consistently for a year and it will be mine. Despite freezing up when I see the word TEST, I will complete my GED in less than 90 days.”

“When I look at where I came from and where I am now, it’s incredible. I have come to understand the importance of believing in yourself, and I’ve learned that you have to pick the crowd you hang with carefully. Sure, the alcoholic at the bar will believe in you, but I want CEOs, teachers, and employment agencies believing in me. That’s what I’m working on now and there’s no better time than the present. I am full of hope!”

Voices of Hope – Operation New Hope

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:

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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.”

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Voices of Hope – Braeden C.

Voices of Hope – Braeden C.

Operation New Hope provides support and training to people impacted by the justice system, connecting them to the workforce, their families, & communities.

Our programs give people the tools needed to focus on the future and leave the past behind.

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Voices of Hope – Michael M.

Voices of Hope – Michael M.

The Art of Hope

Save the Date – Opening Reception on October 10, 2024

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Voices of Hope – Alfredo D.

Voices of Hope – Alfredo D.

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Voices of Hope – Jazmin Y.

Voices of Hope – Jazmin Y.

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Voices of Hope Update-Father’s Day Edition with Fazil L.

Voices of Hope Update-Father’s Day Edition with Fazil L.

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Voices of Hope – James M.

Voices of Hope – James M.

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Voices of Hope Update- Crystal C.

Voices of Hope Update- Crystal C.

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Voices of Hope – Chimekie J.

Voices of Hope – Chimekie J.

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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.”