Fortune & Me

A Call for Justice and Reform

“We will judge a society by the way it treats its prisoners,” Dostoevsky wrote. By that standard, we, as Americans, fall short. With 5% of the world’s population and 25% of the world’s prisoners, we must bear the moral and ethical obligation to treat literally millions of Americans in prison, on probation, in home confinement, and in halfway houses with enough decency and common sense to break the vicious cycles of recidivism.

Discovering The Fortune Society

I understand this obligation better than many, given the arc of my life, my 8½ years in federal prison, and now my five years post-incarceration. My journey and my commitment to justice for all brought me to The Fortune Society. My first visit was one of the most touching experiences of the past five years. My dear friend and Fortune Society board member Alan Patricof asked me to join him one Thursday afternoon on one of his regular visits.

That afternoon, I met David Rothenberg, the founder; Stanley Richards, the CEO; and many staff members and volunteers. Most importantly, I encountered an impressive array of dozens of current and former residents gathered for the weekly group meeting. I was impressed and committed to the mission, vision, staff, and, most importantly, the residents. So I was delighted when I was invited to join the board of The Fortune Society. It felt like a natural progression of my commitment to effecting positive change.

The Fortune Society’s Missions

My decision to work with The Fortune Society stems from both a personal drive to make an impact and a belief in the power of second chances. The Fortune Society is an organization dedicated to supporting individuals impacted by the criminal justice system. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including housing, education, job training, mental health support, and substance abuse treatment.

The goal is to help people returning from incarceration rebuild their lives, find stability, and reintegrate successfully into society. When I learned about The Fortune Society’s work, I was moved by its dedication to creating pathways of hope for those often overlooked or marginalized. I knew I wanted to be part of that mission.

A Holistic Approach to Rehabilitation

I was drawn to The Fortune Society for its holistic approach to rehabilitation. Individuals released from incarceration often face challenges beyond a lack of opportunity, such as mental health issues, addiction, housing shortages, and societal stigma. The Fortune Society addresses these needs with a support network crucial for sustainable change.

Addressing Systemic Issues

Another reason for my involvement is The Fortune Society’s commitment to addressing systemic issues in our criminal justice system. The U.S. has one of the highest incarceration rates globally, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. Structural inequities create a cycle of poverty and incarceration that is difficult to break without targeted support and advocacy.

Engaging in Advocacy and Reform

The Fortune Society provides services and engages in public policy work aimed at reducing incarceration rates, promoting fairer treatment, and advocating for criminal justice reforms focused on rehabilitation over punishment.

Leveraging Skills and Networks

As a board member, I bring a deep respect for The Fortune Society’s mission and a commitment to leveraging my skills and network to support its initiatives. I hope to contribute by building awareness around the issues that formerly incarcerated individuals face and fostering partnerships that can amplify The Fortune Society’s reach and impact.

The Power of Second Chances

Supporting The Fortune Society means standing with those working tirelessly to rebuild their lives against considerable odds. It is about recognizing that everyone deserves a second chance and that society benefits when we lift each other up. I am honored to be part of this organization, working alongside a talented team of leaders, advocates, and individuals driven by a shared vision of a more just and compassionate society.

A Vision for Change

Ultimately, my decision to join the board reflects my belief that change is possible and that each of us has a role in building a world where everyone can live with dignity, respect, and an opportunity to thrive.

If you’re inspired by the pursuit of justice and the transformative power of second chances, delve deeper into these themes with my book, available on Amazon. It’s a thoughtful exploration of personal journey and societal reform, offering insights and reflections on how we can collectively work toward a more equitable world. Order your copy now and join us in advocating for meaningful change.