NEW BEGINNINGS ALLIANCE

Bridging release to reentry for successful second chances

COVID-19 Emergency
Response Fund

Governor Bill Lee declares
“Second Chance” month

What We Do

New Beginnings Alliance is a statewide nonprofit faith-based organization committed to increased public safety, strengthening communities, and reducing recidivism by offering second chances through assistance with employment, housing, and providing support for those returning from incarceration to reconnect with family as productive members of the community.

How it Began

New Beginnings Alliance came to life through discussions among individuals desiring to move Tennessee’s criminal justice system from its current fractured approach of retribution to a restorative justice model. The team is comprised of members from varied backgrounds devoted to promoting public safety awareness through faith-based initiatives, advocacy, education, legislation and litigation. The ultimate goal is a justice system which requires accountability while fostering community support for all to greatly reduce crime and recidivism.

Why it Began

There were 19,759 males and 2,016 females assigned to Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) for a total of 21,775 offenders incarcerated in Tennessee’s adult institutions on February 8, 2020. Adult offenders are not housed in the unit occupied by juveniles; however, there were 8 juveniles incarcerated in adult TDOC facilities as of February 8, 2020. The average cost-per-day to house a TDOC offender (including those housed at privately managed facilities) was $79.06 in fiscal year 2017-2018.

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’

Matthew 25:40

Mission Statement

New Beginnings Alliance is a statewide nonprofit faith-based organization committed to increased public safety, strengthening communities, and reducing recidivism by offering second chances through assistance with employment, housing, and providing support for those returning from incarceration to reconnect with family as productive members of the community.

What Works

New Beginnings Alliance is a collaborative effort of tenacious doers seeking to break this cycle by taking a holistic approach to reducing recidivism by providing resources which promote successful second chances. Reentry services include workforce education, financial literacy and life skills programs for inmates, accurate educational information for the general public, housing referrals, employment assistance, and a comprehensive, transitional residential program for recently released citizens. Programs delivered combine evidence-based techniques, methodologies and curriculums.

Pre-Release Program

Successful reentry begins prior to release at the institution of incarceration; equipping each participant with the necessary tools enabling them to successfully adjust and function as productive, law abiding citizens within society.

Intense Residential Program

A community-based component further equips participants with the necessary essentials to transcend back into society. Participants are reconnected with family, which is imperative in the process by establishing a firm foundation of support.

Aftercare

Resources remain accessible to all participants as needed to assist along the journey to living as law abiding, productive citizens. Continual support will be provided whenever a participant wants help to ensure lasting success.