Roots to Rise

Income inequality

County of Los Angeles (select only if your project has a countywide benefit)

Pilot or new project, program, or initiative (testing or implementing a new idea)

The issue we aim to address is the complex and often overwhelming set of challenges faced by individuals reentering society after incarceration. These individuals frequently experience barriers to stable housing, employment, healthcare, and mental health support—all of which are critical to successful reintegration. Without access to coordinated, trauma-informed services, many are at high risk of homelessness, relapse, or reoffending, perpetuating cycles of incarceration and marginalization. Our program seeks to break this cycle by offering holistic, person-centered support that fosters stability, empowerment, and long-term community connection.

Roots to Rise is an innovative, trauma-informed reentry program that supports formerly incarcerated individuals through a holistic, four-phase model: Stabilize, Heal, Empower, and Thrive. The program integrates transitional housing, mental health care, case management, digital literacy, and peer mentorship to address the root causes of recidivism and promote long-term reintegration.
Participants begin in safe, community-based transitional housing, where they receive wraparound services tailored to their unique needs. Licensed clinicians and trained peers lead culturally responsive therapy, mindfulness workshops, and substance use support. A Digital Freedom Lab provides access to devices, internet, and training to build digital and job-readiness skills. Employment coaching, entrepreneurship pathways, and record-clearing support are woven throughout.
By treating reentry as a journey rather than a deadline, Roots to Rise empowers individuals to reclaim autonomy, restore dignity, and reconnect with their communities—creating not just second chances, but stronger futures.

If our work is successful, Los Angeles County will be a more just, inclusive, and resilient community. Formerly incarcerated individuals will return home with the support they need to heal, stabilize, and thrive—reducing homelessness, recidivism, and reliance on emergency systems. Communities most impacted by incarceration will see increased safety, restored families, and economic participation. Employers will benefit from a new pool of skilled, supported talent, and public systems will shift from crisis management to prevention and empowerment. Ultimately, the cycle of incarceration will be replaced with cycles of opportunity, wellness, and long-term reintegration—transforming reentry from a public burden into a public benefit.