News
200+ turn out for Back in Style event
It was an evening of brightly colored backpacks filled with school supplies, delicious barbecue, fresh new ‘dos and glittery nails. More than 200 families and volunteers came out for our Back in Style event on Aug. 22 at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church. The 8th annual fundraiser helps kids with incarcerated loved ones prepare for the new…
Read MoreExploring the untapped potential of second chance employees
Businesses should consider hiring second chance workers for the same reason they consider hiring any other candidate — because they’re good employees. They’re “incredibly engaged and loyal members of staff” and an ideal solution for the current employment and labor shortage. As such, employers must “adapt their approach to talent acquisition in order to create…
Read MoreKevin Walsh: From LifeWorks! intern to program director
Kevin Walsh is the epitome of a second chance success story. A decade ago, following his release from prison, he had mandated weekly visits with a federal probation officer. Today, that same probation officer is referring clients to Kevin at LifeWorks!, where he was recently promoted to program director. In just 5 years, Kevin’s journey…
Read MoreCCT heads to state capital for Second Chance Lobby Day
Center for Community Transitions staff and supporters joined 1,000-plus members of the NC Second Chance Alliance at the 2019 Second Chance Lobby Day May 7 at the NC General Assembly. The statewide alliance is made up of people with criminal records, their family members, service providers, congregations, community leaders and concerned citizens who have come together to address the causes of…
Read MoreSpring Fling honors dedicated volunteers
We celebrated our dedicated volunteers May 14 at our annual Spring Fling volunteer appreciation event. Trish Morrison, Audrée Gilbert, Bethany Mason and St. Luke’s Lutheran Church ELCA received the Making the Difference award for their loyal dedication and unwavering commitment. We thank them – and all of our volunteers – for their outstanding contributions toward…
Read MorePartner Spotlight: Mecklenburg County ABC Board
CCT would not be successful in providing reentry and family services without financial support from organizations like the Mecklenburg County ABC Board. The board demonstrates its strong commitment to community by funding “innovative programs and services that lead to best practice interventions or strategies” that prevent or combat alcohol or substance abuse-related issues. The foundation partners…
Read MoreTorrey Smith surprises Center for Women residents
Carolina Panthers’ Torrey Smith paid a surprise recently to our Center for Women residents. A Charlotte newcomer, Smith wanted to learn more about the program, which assists with actions plans for employment, family reunification and housing. He spoke to residents about his own experience of being the child of an incarcerated parent and offered words of encouragement to…
Read MoreFinding Home: People with records still face housing challenges
Nearly one in three Americans have a criminal record and having a conviction can make it challenging to find housing. Many CCT clients can afford to pay rent, but they’re rejected by landlords because of their background.WFAE is taking a year-long look at Charlotte’s affordable housing problem through the series, Finding Home. Hear and read what Executive…
Read MoreInspiration, entertainment & generosity make Build People, Not Prisons event huge success
Inspiring speeches, lively bidding wars, generous supporters and impromptu dancing highlighted our Build People, Not Prisons fundraiser on March 21 at Warehouse 242. The 2nd annual spring event raised more than $32,000, which will directly fund CCT programs and services like LifeWorks!, Families Doing Time and the Center for Women. More than 160 guests…
Read MoreJulius Peppers donates $10,000 to CCT from Sneaker Ball fundraiser
When the idea of hosting the Julius Peppers Charity Sneaker Ball came up, the retired Carolina Panther was excited to celebrate Charlotte and have the opportunity to raise money for local organizations doing amazing work in the community. One such organization is the Center for Community Transitions.
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