7 Ways You Can Be the Key to Unlocking Second Chances

April 4, 2023 by Emily Andrews

Currently, 80 million people in the U.S. have a criminal record. It subjects them to nearly 44,000 legal barriers that stifle opportunity and success—obstacles that often serve no public safety purpose. Such restrictions prevent men and women from accessing education, employment, housing, and other essentials needed to make the most of their second chance.

By extending second chances to people with a criminal record, we afford them the opportunity to be productive, contributing members of the community.

Are you wondering how you can contribute? Here are seven ways you can be the key to unlocking second chances.

1. Educate yourself and others on the struggles of having a criminal record.

2. Pray for people with a criminal record.

3. Promote Second Chance Month® on social media.

4. Step forward in your community to help people find housing, employment, transportation, child care, and more.

5. Ask lawmakers to pass Second Chance Month resolutions and proclamations.

6. Take other advocacy actions to support voting rights and other second chance opportunities.

7. Become a Justice Ambassador to inspire the Church, change the culture, and advance justice that restores.

UNLOCK SECOND CHANCES

When we remove barriers for the 80 million Americans with a criminal record, we give them the chance to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities. Too many still face obstacles to jobs, housing, and education. Urge Congress to support policies that restore second chances and allow people to move forward.

TAKE ACTION

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Filed Under: Prison & Prisoners, Advocacy & Reentry, Reentry, Second Chance Month Tagged With: Justice Ambassador, Pell grants, Second Chance Act, Second Chance Month, Voting Rights

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