FirstHandUp provides specialized reentry support for individuals returning home after 10+ years of incarceration. We don’t just offer a hand out; we offer a hand up to help you navigate a world that has changed, so you can build a future that lasts.
Returning to society after 10, 15, or 20 years is more than a transition—it’s a total transformation. From new technology to shifted social norms, the "outside" can feel like a different planet.
At FirstHandUp, we recognize the unique resilience of long-term survivors. We bridge the gap between "then" and "now" with trauma-informed care, modern skill-building, and a community that understands where you’ve been.
When our founder was released after more than a decade behind bars, the world didn't look like the one they left. The "simple" things—applying for a job on a smartphone, navigating a digital bank account, or even understanding new social norms—felt like an impossible mountain to climb.