The DREAM Initiative

Reentry doesn’t stop at the gate—it extends beyond the walls.
We’re intentional about advocating for returned citizens not just in one space, but across sectors and industries where access, equity, and opportunity are too often withheld.

Today, we’re honored to speak with the members of WHET (Women in Higher Education in Tennessee) about what advocacy in the education sector looks like, why it matters, and how they can help drive real change.

Because when campuses become reentry-informed, lives are transformed—and the ripple effect reaches far beyond the classroom.

This Thanksgiving, we’re grateful for the power of community and the resilience of the individuals and families we’re privileged to serve. At DREAMi, we believe in creating opportunities for second chances and building brighter futures together. Today, we celebrate the strength, determination, and hope that unites us all. From the DREAMi family to yours, may your Thanksgiving be filled with gratitude, love, and new beginnings. 🍁✨

A monumental congratulations to Cohort 5 of the DREAM Initiative! Yesterday, we celebrated the graduation of 23 inspiring men at Trousdale who have taken bold steps towards substantial change and personal growth. Our unique program is specifically tailored by and for those seeking to overcome their past and build a brighter future.

Want to be part of the change?

Join us as a volunteer, become a second chance employer, or participate in our RESET training designed to help organizations foster an inclusive culture. Let’s empower individuals together and strengthen our communities. 🌟

🚶‍♂️ Join us every Thursday for Exodus, a reentry support group dedicated to returning and returned citizens across the globe. 🌍 Powered by The DREAM Initiative, we're providing a safe, empowering space for individuals to share, grow, and build a new future together. 🌱

📅 Every Thursday at 6 PM 📍 iStudio Nashville | 968 Madison Square 💻 Virtual options available!

No cost. Just support, connection, and community. Let’s walk this journey together.

Breaking the cycle, one dream at a time. The journey to reduce a 46% recidivism rate in Tennessee begins with opportunity and support. Join The Dream Initiative to create a future where everyone has the chance to rewrite their story.

At , we're all about reentry, second chances, criminal justice reform, and equity advocacy.

When you volunteer with us at The DREAM Initiative, you're stepping into a world where we believe in the power of redemption and the importance of leveling the playing field for all.

Our mission is clear: to create a society where every individual, regardless of their past, has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

So, if you're ready to be part of an organization rewriting the narrative, advocating for justice, and giving people the second chances they deserve, head over to www.thedreaminitiativeusa.com and join us in our mission to make dreams come true for everyone!

Desistance is the refraining from detrimental behaviors. It is our focus at and the reason we created this and . Our goal is to connect returning citizens and their families to resources, while also educating the community on ways to advocate, volunteer, and support this community of individuals.

This event includes panels on volunteering, expungements, second chances and the community, and a mayoral forum on second chances featuring Nashville mayoral candidates.

Registration is open now >>> thedreaminitiativeusa.com/secondchance

Each year, nearly 600,000 men and women are released from a correctional facility across the country. Of that, on average, 37.4% remain unemployed and MOST have difficulties finding gainful employment, housing, resources and support!

Join us this Saturday for our inaugural resource and job fair.

Visit thedreaminitiativeusa.com/secondchances for more information!

Powered by , the Discovering Desistance Second Chance Resource & Job Fair is an important event that aims to support individuals re-entering society after incarceration. Every year, nearly 600,000 returning citizens struggle to find housing, employment, and resources, making the transition back into society a difficult one.

At DREAMi, we believe that everyone deserves a second chance. No matter how long it has been since you were released from prison or jail, this fair is designed to provide you with the tools and resources needed to succeed. Whether you're in need of a job, housing, legal assistance, or just someone to talk to, we are here to help.

Because we believe that creating a supportive community is essential to ensuring successful reentry, we invite all members of the community to come and learn more about how to volunteer and advocate for reentry. By working together, we can make a positive impact and help those in need.

This is an excellent opportunity to connect with local organizations, employers, and service providers who are committed to supporting those re-entering society. With informative workshops, networking opportunities, and on-site resources, we're confident that you'll leave our fair feeling empowered and supported.

Join us at the Discovering Desistance Second Chance Resource & Job Fair and help us create a better future for those who need it most.

April is Second Chance Month, a time to recognize the importance of providing opportunities for individuals who have been impacted by the criminal justice system. At The DREAM Initiative, we believe in the power of second chances and the potential for every person to achieve their full potential.

There are many ways to celebrate Second Chance Month and support individuals who are rebuilding their lives after incarceration. Here are a few ideas:
❤Volunteer with organizations that support reentry programs and provide services to individuals who are transitioning back into their communities.
📢Advocate for policies and laws that promote fair and equitable treatment of individuals who have been impacted by the criminal justice system.
👨‍🔧🧑‍🔧👩‍🔧Hire individuals who have been impacted by the criminal justice system and give them a chance to prove their skills and abilities.
💡Educate yourself and others about the impact of mass incarceration and the need for criminal justice reform.
💰Donate to organizations that support second chance initiatives and help individuals rebuild their lives.

Register for the Discovering Desistance Second Chance Resource Fair at thedreaminitiativeusa.com/secondchance! This event brings together a community of individuals and organizations committed to supporting second chances and promoting reentry initiatives. It will feature resources, employers, and informative panels featuring reentry advocates and community leaders. Join us on Saturday, April 29, 2023, to learn more about resources, tools, and opportunities available for individuals who have been impacted by the criminal justice system.

Together, we can make a difference and create a more just and
equitable society for all. Let's celebrate Second Chance Month and support individuals who are rebuilding their lives! 🎉🙌🏽

Returning to society after incarceration can be a challenging and overwhelming experience. With the stigma and barriers that exist, it's not always easy for returning citizens to find the resources and support they need to successfully transition back into their communities. That's why we're excited to invite you to the Discovering Desistance Second Chance Resource and Job Fair!

This event, taking place on Saturday, April 29th from 10-3, is designed to provide returning citizens with access to a wide range of resources, including job opportunities, educational and training programs, legal services, and more. By bringing together community partners, service providers, and employers, we hope to create a one-stop-shop for returning citizens to get the support they need to thrive.

We believe that everyone deserves a second chance and that, by working together, we can create a brighter future for all. So whether you're a returning citizen looking for resources or an employer interested in hiring individuals with a criminal background, we hope you'll join us at the Discovering Desistance Second Chance Resource and Job Fair!

Let's break down the barriers and stigma that too often prevent returning citizens from reaching their full potential. Together, we can make a difference.

Join us for a day of empowerment and community support at the Second Chance Reentry Resource Fair! We believe in breaking down barriers and building new opportunities for those transitioning back into society after incarceration. This event will bring together a diverse group of vendors from different industries, including education and training, employment, housing, healthcare, and more, to provide individuals with the resources, information, and support they need to successfully reintegrate into their communities.

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those seeking a second chance. Let's show them they are not alone and we are here to support them on their journey toward a brighter future. Don't miss this opportunity to network with vendors, learn about the latest resources available, and make a positive impact in our community. Join us at the Second Chance Reentry Resource Fair!