Mahatma Gandhi
This non-profit organization operates with a clear focus on youth and young adults who are either currently or formerly incarcerated, and those at-risk of possible incarceration in the future. Side Door aims to provide these individuals with hope, inspiration, and support through athletics, programs, and academic achievement striving to reduce recidivism through rehabilitation and reintegration.
Our programs and initiatives are designed to support the personal and professional growth of the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated offering them the resources and guidance they need to successfully transition back into society. We believe in the power of education, mentorship, and community support to break the cycle of incarceration and create pathways to a brighter future.
The Side Door’s Vision is a world where people have the power, confidence, and opportunity to create a better future for themselves after growth, change, and development. A world that is welcoming and supportive of those striving to make a positive impact in their communities after rehabilitation.
We operate under the influence of a Hope culture. We believe being rooted in the belief that anything is possible allow us to achieve the unthinkable
We believe in continuing to do the work even when we are not seeing results yet. We believe that no problem can withstand the onslaught of continuous effort.
We believe creativity is essential to discovering new ways to battle ongoing challenges. We encourage each other to think outside of the “normal way” of doing things. We are constantly pursuing those things that have yet to be done.
Courage is what enables us to overcome adversity. It empowers individuals to stand up for what they believe in, and to pursue their dreams
We are committed to excellence. We are constantly looking at ways to improve our courses of action, making us more efficient and impactful.
We believe creativity is essential to discovering new ways to battle ongoing challenges. We encourage each other to think outside of the “normal way” of doing things. We are constantly pursuing those things that have yet to be done
Recognizing people’s potential and desire for change and growth, helping them envision a future beyond their current circumstances and inspiring them to reimagine their dreams and goals they once held close to them. We empower individuals to transform their lives. Hope is a powerful force that can ignite the desire for personal growth and rehabilitation, fostering resilience and a sense of purpose. Our commitment to instilling hope ensures that those in custody are not defined by their past but are given the chance to build a better future.
Changing public perception of adults in custody is crucial for fostering a more compassionate society. Often, individuals who are incarcerated are viewed solely through the lens of their past mistakes, leading to stigma and exclusion even after they have served their sentences. To shift this narrative, it's essential to highlight the potential for rehabilitation and the positive contributions these individuals can make when given the opportunity.
By sharing stories of transformation and redemption, and emphasizing the importance of second chances, we can encourage the public to see adults in custody not as defined by their life’s greatest mistake, but as human beings capable of growth and redemption. This change in perception can pave the way for greater support for reintegration efforts and a more inclusive community.
Building relationships between people in the community and the incarcerated population is essential for fostering understanding, empathy, and successful reintegration. These connections can break down the barriers of fear and prejudice, replacing them with mutual respect and support. Community members who engage with those who are incarcerated—whether through mentorship programs, volunteer efforts, or restorative justice initiatives—play a vital role in bridging the gap between prison and society. These relationships provide incarcerated individuals with a sense of hope, support, and belonging which are all crucial for their rehabilitation and eventual reintegration. For the community, these authentic interactions offer a chance to see the humanity in those who are incarcerated, to see the similarities that we all have within each other, recognizing their potential for change and the value of giving second chances. In this way, building relationships across these divides not only supports the incarcerated population but also strengthens the fabric of the community as a whole.
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