We’ve talked a lot about our belief in redemption and the transformative power of second chances. It’s the core foundation of our Fair Chance Program, which provides career opportunities to justice-involved individuals. Where Fair Chances allow people to create a career at JBM, we have realized that for our team members to be successful, we need to go beyond simply providing opportunity.
Challenges of Re-Entry
Depending on the length of their sentence and local support systems, someone who comes out of prison may face various difficulties. They may have a tough time finding housing, experience legal and financial issues, have inadequate access to healthcare, or lack transportation to and from work. When you talk to many people coming from prison, one of the most significant issues they face is the social stigma associated with incarceration.
“We all make mistakes, but we are not our mistakes,” Saralin, a participant in the JUMPSTART program, recently said. “Please give us a chance.”
How the Better Lives Program Works
We created our Better Lives Program to make sure each JBM Fair Chance team member has someone to walk alongside them, providing the resources and guidance they need to navigate the challenges of reintegrating into society. At the core of the program are two Better Life Coaches, who regularly meet with team members to offer continuous guidance to support them in their personal and professional lives.
The program is structured into five key steps to address and meet the unique needs of each participant:
Step 1: Initial Interview
The program begins with an interview, during which the Better Lives Coach assesses the team member’s current situation, including housing, transportation, and support systems. This session also delves into the individual’s incarceration history and coping mechanisms, laying the groundwork for a personalized support plan.
Step 2: Getting to Know Each Other
Building a strong rapport is essential for effective support. During these sessions, the Better Lives Coach and participant discuss personal interests, family backgrounds and life goals. This mutual understanding forms the foundation of a trusting and supportive relationship.
Step 3: Developing the Better Lives Plan
To offer direction, our Better Lives Coaches help team members create a personalized plan. This includes identifying short- and long-term goals, coping strategies and a detailed support system of people the individual can turn to during difficult times. This plan serves as a roadmap, guiding the person toward stability and success.
Step 4: Weekly Check-ins
Consistency is the key to progress. Participants meet with the coach each week to hold a weekly check-in and review progress, address challenges and offer ongoing support and accountability. These sessions ensure that participants remain on track with their plan and have the encouragement, insight, and resources they need to overcome obstacles.
Step 5: Graduation and Beyond
Participants enjoy a graduation ceremony once they have completed a year of the Better Lives program. Each graduate is encouraged to bring a loved one or support person to help celebrate their growth and achievements. For many, it is the first positive recognition they have received outside of prison in many years.
But support doesn’t end with graduation. Each participant continues receiving assistance as needed, ensuring they remain on a positive trajectory.
Helping Hands from Around the Community
We’re fortunate to have an army of community partners who help equip our Better Lives program participants with the resources and support they need to be successful. We work with various non-profit and government groups that provide resources like transportation, housing and furnishings. This holistic approach fosters a supportive environment for team members both in and outside JBM.
“People who arrive at JBM want to create a better life for themselves,” said Jacqueline Cooley, Leader of Learning and Development at JBM Packaging. “Our goal is to equip them with the resources they need to take the next steps both personally and professionally so they can succeed at every level.”
At JBM, second chances aren’t only given; they are actively nurtured and supported. We know that when our employees live Better Lives, they create Better Solutions, which contribute to a Better World.
