Steve Weibel’s Post

What does Freedom really mean, after years of incarceration? Some might think it's just walking out of a prison gate. But when I was released, I realized that another battle was just beginning.  For me, the only help or guidance I was given was money to purchase a bus ticket and my bag of belongings (Just paperwork and a few letters that I kept). No job lined up. No real money to speak of and no roadmap for how to rebuild. You’re expected to “just figure it out.” Sounds impossible, right? But that’s what thousands of men and women face every day when they re-enter society. I faced those same obstacles, job rejections, stigma, isolation. But I knew the most important piece of information; I was never going back. I found a way forward. Not because it was easy, but because I refused to give up. This isn’t just my story. It’s the story of countless others who are fighting for their second chance. We need to do better. We need to build bridges for those coming home, not walls. Here’s my question to you: What can we, as a community, as employers, as humans, do to make re-entry more than just survival? How do we make it about thriving?  If you’ve ever faced a second chance, given one, or believe in them, let's talk. Share your thoughts. Our insights could change someone’s life.  #resilience #mindsetmatters #justicereform #breakingbarriers #pathtosuccess #careerafterincarceration #buildingfutures

NEW BLOG POST IN OUR LENTEN REFLECTIONS READ NOW at https://lnkd.in/gwUADFCQ We're thrilled to announce the release of our latest blog post in the Lenten Reflections series: "Facing the Challenges: Living Day-to-Day." This excerpt delves into the intricate realities faced by families with incarcerated loved ones, shedding light on the daily struggles, triumphs, and resilience experienced in navigating life amidst adversity. Living day-to-day with a family member behind bars presents a myriad of challenges that extend far beyond the prison walls. From financial strains to emotional burdens, each aspect of life is impacted by the absence of a loved one. In this blog post, we explore these challenges in depth, offering valuable insights and heartfelt anecdotes from individuals who have walked this path. Hear stories of resilience as individuals struggle with the emotional toll of separation, finding strength in the face of uncertainty and adversity. But it's not just about the financial and emotional hurdles – family dynamics undergo profound shifts in the wake of incarceration. From altered roles and responsibilities to strained relationships and unexpected blessings. READ NOW at https://lnkd.in/gwUADFCQ #LentenReflections #FacingChallenges #FamilySupport #IncarcerationJourney #Resilience #Adversity #BlogPost #MessengersOfHope #living #childrensuffer

END, Incarceration of Black and Minority Youth: Have you recently seen a Black Adolescent who exited the Youth Justice Criminal System? I have seen one who presented as hopeless and sad, has no goals, and wanders through life. While he was incarcerated, he suffered immense trauma, racism, decreased health and a lack of interest in life. Back in the community, he has no career skills, no housing, no mentor and is stigmatized by society, which tells him that he is a failure. Incarceration does not rehab, help to plan one's future or eliminate delinquent behaviours in teens. I want to see increased mental health care, various community resources, and system changes. This book contains tools for change.

Today, my family and I took a trip back in time to the Old Cossack Prison, where history meets LOLs! 🏰 We strolled through the Heritage town, soaking up the vibes of days gone by, and couldn't resist the temptation to check out where the bad boys of yesteryears found themselves in a bit of a pickle 🥒. Walking through those ancient iron-clad gates, I couldn't help but think about the power of connection. Back then, these cells were like the ultimate 'unplugged' experience – no Wi-Fi, no smartphones, just good old-fashioned human interaction (whether you wanted it or not)! As we peered into the cramped cells, my mini-me and I shared a moment of silent contemplation. Then she shoots me this cheeky grin and whispers, 'Mummy, lets "Lock Down Jail Daddy?' Ah, the innocence of youth and the genius of a budding prankster! But beyond the giggles and guffaws, there's a nugget of wisdom to be found. In a world buzzing with notifications and distractions, it's easy to overlook the importance of real, face-to-face connection. Whether you're cellmates in a historic prison or just chilling at home, taking the time to truly connect with those around you is what makes life meaningful. So, next time you're feeling trapped in the chaos of modern life, remember the lessons of the Old Cossack Prison: cherish the moments, cherish the connections, and maybe, just maybe, hide the keys from your daughter's prank stash! 🗝️ #enhancemeempowerme #lornaedwards #mumof6 #over30 #onlinebusinessowner #personaldevelopment #globalopportunity #perth #globalbusiness #OnlineBusinessCoach #MomOfSix #HomeBasedBusiness #FreedomLifestyle #WorkLifeBalance #BusinessMentor #EntrepreneurLife #FinancialFreedom #Empowerment #ChoicesMatter

Re-entry isn’t a one-size-fits-all system, but that’s exactly what’s expected. Let me take you back to day one of my release. After five years of incarceration, I was wearing a white t-shirt, gray sweatpants, and a mesh bag with another identical set inside. From there, I was driven to a bus station, where I had to navigate my way to Little Rock, Arkansas, then transfer to another bus to reach my final destination. Finally, I had to take a taxi just to get to the halfway house. All of this on day one, while grappling with the overwhelming weight of freedom and uncertainty. Re-entry isn’t just about the words “Second Chance.” It’s about acknowledging the mental, emotional, and physical toll of release. True reform means guiding and supporting people as they rebuild their lives so they can truly live again. #ReEntryReform #SecondChances #PrisonReform #NavigatingReEntry #Resilience

A child’s involvement in the foster system can affect their lives well into adulthood. When they age out, young adults are more likely to become homeless, experience mental health issues, and become involved with the criminal legal system. Racist barriers make it worse for certain communities: Black children are disproportionately harmed because of bias that equates poverty with neglect. That’s why a task force was created by Gov. J.B. Pritzker in 2022 to address inequities and offer solutions. This year, they have issued more than 50 recommendations calling for investment in families with low income, not surveillance and separation. When families have the resources they need, their children can thrive. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/g75MR4B7

Want to help kids in need? Then you should consider prison ministry. 65% of incarcerated people have children. It’s tough to be a parent. It’s even tougher from behind bars. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to mentor underprivileged kids. But kids need parents even more than they need mentors. At JUMPSTART, we’re helping kids by getting their incarcerated parent back on track. You could be a part of the generational change that’s happening. By giving your time or resources. Let’s start with a conversation. >>>Send me a DM or contact me through my Featured Section

Success After Lockdown: Inspiring Interview with Eddie Fordham. Join us for a captivating conversation with Eddie Fordham as we discuss his journey to success after incarceration and how he is making a positive impact in his community. Discover the power of education and personal growth in reducing recidivism rates. #SuccessAfterLockdown #InspiringStories #CommunityImpact #PersonalGrowth #EducationMatters #ReducingRecidivism #PositiveChange #SuccessJourney #UnlockPotential #SecondChances

I want to clarify my earlier post...there are all kinds of people out in society who prey on the traumas and the suffering of justice impacted men and women. They know a lot of people are desperate or in need of some kind of relief from their condition of incarceration, and so, they target us and our loved ones with astronomical fees for services that bear very little, if any results. This is a disgrace. I became a consultant and started my own LLC for the very same reason. Instead of taking families through financial ruin, only to find their loved ones still trapped in the system...the only question that should be asked is, "How do we resolve the case? What can we do to restore justice? What can our client do to engender your support of his/her release? Nothing else is relevant, right? I am in search of remedies for both, you and myself...the question is how do we achieve them?