New Life Second Chance Organization Prepares for Reentry Awareness Month

New Life Second Chance Organization, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting formerly incarcerated individuals, is ramping up efforts for a comprehensive campaign during July's Reentry Awareness Month, aiming to spotlight the challenges faced by returning citizens and promote solutions for successful reintegration.

Founded by Waleisah Wilson-Menefee following her own experiences with the criminal justice system, the organization has become a beacon of hope for those seeking to rebuild their lives after incarceration.

"I started this organization because I lived through the struggle myself," Wilson-Menefee explained during a recent interview. "After my own incarceration, I faced countless barriers to housing, employment, and rebuilding relationships. I knew there had to be a better way to support people coming home."

Wilson-Menefee's personal journey informs the organization's approach, which targets individuals who have been incarcerated and are working to reestablish themselves in society. The demographic served is diverse but faces common challenges: limited access to stable housing, employment discrimination, mental health concerns, and fractured family relationships.

"Our primary focus is on those who society has often written off," said Wilson-Menefee. "We work with men and women of all ages who have served their time and are committed to transforming their lives, but need practical support and advocacy to overcome systemic barriers."

New Life Second Chance offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to address the multifaceted challenges of reentry. These include transitional housing programs, job readiness training, mental health counseling, substance abuse recovery support, and family reunification services. The organization also provides legal assistance for record expungement and restoration of civil rights.

"We believe in meeting people where they are and providing wraparound services that address the whole person," Wilson-Menefee stated. "Successful reentry isn't just about finding a job or a place to live—it's about healing trauma, rebuilding self-worth, and reconnecting with community."

The organization's approach has shown promising results in reducing recidivism rates among participants.

For July's Reentry Awareness Month, New Life Second Chance has planned an ambitious calendar of events designed to educate the public and create tangible opportunities for returning citizens. The events include community forums featuring formerly incarcerated speakers sharing their reentry journeys and a series of workshops on topics ranging from financial literacy to conflict resolution.

A highlight of the month will be a major job fair bringing together "second chance employers" committed to hiring individuals with criminal records. The organization has secured partnerships with several Georgia-based companies willing to look beyond conviction histories to evaluate candidates based on their skills and potential.

"Employment is absolutely critical to successful reentry," Wilson-Menefee emphasized. "A steady job provides not just income, but structure, purpose, and the dignity that comes with self-sufficiency."

That message resonates deeply with Derrick Mason, a Columbus resident who spent eight years in prison and now works full-time as a warehouse supervisor. “I went to over 20 interviews where the door shut the moment they saw my record,” Mason said. “An organization like this gives people like me a chance to not just survive, but thrive. Despite the stigma, reentry programs like this aren’t charity—they’re justice.”

Tasha Brooks, a mother of two who was incarcerated for five years, echoed that sentiment. “Reentry isn’t just about staying out of prison—it’s about becoming part of something again,” she said. “When I came home, organizations like this one helped me feel human again. They reminded me I still had something to offer—to my family, to my community, and to myself.”

The organization is also keeping a close eye on the state capitol as they continue working to push for policy reforms that would reduce barriers to reentry, including fair chance hiring legislation and expanded access to housing for those with criminal records.

Wilson-Menefee sees the work of New Life Second Chance as transformative not just for individuals, but for entire communities.

"When we support returning citizens in becoming productive community members, everyone benefits," she said. "Families are reunited, neighborhoods become safer, and we break intergenerational cycles of incarceration. This isn't just about giving people a second chance—it's about building stronger, more compassionate communities."

The organization relies on a network of volunteers, many of whom have lived experience with incarceration, as well as donations and community partnerships. Local businesses, faith communities, and government agencies have all played roles in supporting their mission.

As Reentry Awareness Month approaches, Wilson-Menefee hopes to see increased community engagement with the issue.

"We're asking people to look beyond stereotypes and see the humanity in those who have made mistakes," she said. "Everyone deserves the opportunity to transform their lives, and when we provide the right support, amazing change is possible."

Those interested in supporting New Life Second Chance Organization can find volunteer opportunities, donation information and event details on their website.