What We Do

They are destitute, marginalized, and immediately vulnerable, but determined to live a successful free life.

“I learned to keep trying no matter how many times you fail. Just keep going because things will get better.” – Shawn

We build relationships with our people, walking alongside them and encouraging them every step of the way.

We start our work before our people get out of prison and stay with them throughout their journey in beginning and sustaining their new lives.

PRISON IN-REACH

We are in jails and prisons every day, sparking connections with the men and women who are doing time and will soon gain their freedom in our community.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Employment is the most important factor for successful reentry. We deliver a 3-day curriculum – every week, to a new group of just-released individuals – that emphasizes soft skills and gets people job-ready.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Our Business Development team builds relationships with employers across the city and region, and engages to meet their workforce needs.

Social Enterprises

Through our social enterprise, we engage our people as productive members of society generating revenue for economic growth. Transitional employment through PRO Employment (PROe) provides a starting income and PRO Housing (PROh) apartments give our people a place to call home.

“When I got my first check, I thought I was going to cry.” – Tim

Individual Coaching and Signature Services

Our Program Services team support and coach individuals through their transitions from incarceration to the community. We assist people with:

Individualized job search strategy: résumé creation, job leads, mock interviews, computer training, networking events, job search planning, and job coaching
Assistance with housing and utilities, medical and dental services, vision screening and correction, substance abuse services, counseling, child care, child support services, voting rights analysis, and additional needs
Obtaining identification documentation – birth certificates, state IDs, and driver licenses
Direct aid – food, clothing, bus passes, and transportation services

“I have done so much this past year, and
it all started here at Project Return with a set of tools.”
– James

BETTER SUITED

We partner with Middle Tennessee Men’s Wearhouses to provide our participants with like-new suits, dress shirts, outerwear, shoes, and ties.

REENTRY ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAM (“REP”)

For people who’ve gained stability after incarceration and are interested in starting their own businesses, REP offers capacity-building and mentorship in entrepreneurship, in partnership with Stanford and Vanderbilt Universities.

JOB RETENTION SERVICES

Keeping employment and advancing in employment is crucial, and we are there through thick and thin, with ongoing support, including one-on-one and on-the-job coaching, financial empowerment, child support assistance, and more, all within a two-gen framework, knowing that the success of this generation is the strength of the next.

Skills Development

To match the growing industries in our region, we provide our people with the education necessary to take advantage of employment opportunities.

CONSTRUCTION READINESS

Students learn basic construction and safety skills, and earn their NCCER certification.

HOSPITALITY READINESS

Students gain certifications and skills in guest services and culinary arts.