THE NEWSLETTER
SPRING 2025: RISE UP AND THRIVE
For people to succeed after incarceration, a strong reentry ecosystem is key. This newsletter shines sunlight on individuals and entities that are finding inspiring ways to grow, rise and thrive. A perfect reflection of spring.
NEWS FROM HQ
NEWS FROM OUR SITES
SHARING THE STAGE
AT MONTICELLO WITH
BRYAN STEVENSON
On Friday, April 11, our agency was honored to share the stage at Monticello with criminal justice icon Bryan Stevenson. Guests gathered on the West Lawn to celebrate Founder’s Day and award Stevenson with the 2025 Thomas Jefferson Foundation Medal in Citizen Leadership. The ceremony also included the presentation of the 2025 Citizen Service Award to Martize Tolbert on behalf of The Fountain Fund.
Stevenson is a widely acclaimed public interest lawyer who has dedicated his career to helping the poor, the incarcerated and the condemned. Through a powerful keynote address, he reminded listeners of Jefferson’s deeply held belief that honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom. He eloquently shared, “We deny ourselves the beauty of justice when we refuse to tell the truth.” And he thoughtfully encouraged, “We can all be citizen leaders by committing to being truthtellers, even when it’s inconvenient, even when it’s uncomfortable.” He continued, “I believe there is something better waiting for us. Something that feels more like freedom.”
For Stevenson, receiving the award, at this particular moment in time, is a call to action. “A challenge not to sit down, but to stand up. A challenge not to be quiet, but to keep speaking. A challenge to be a truthteller for the kind of just world that we all so desperately need.”
Martize Tolbert, Bryan Stevenson, and Erika Viccellio at Monticello
FOUNTAIN FUND FACTS
Supporting Client Partners as they achieve their goals is at the heart of everything we do.
ACTIVE LOAN PORTFOLIO
As of February 28, 2025, our agency’s active loan portfolio across all markets included 370 loans valued at nearly $1,691,138.
LOAN OVERVIEW
Since agency inception, 825+ client partners have received $3,956,716 in loans, with $1,843,958+ being recycled back into the loan fund. Donate today! Your donation is the gift that keeps on giving.
OUR BOARD HELPS US RISE TO A WHOLE NEW LEVEL
Each February, our Board of Directors convenes in Charlottesville to welcome new members, reflect on the previous year, and think strategically about the road ahead. In our fast-moving world, it’s impossible to overstate the value of this simple act of gathering. Of being in the same room … slowing down, engaging in complex questions, and thinking collectively about how best to fulfill our mission.
This year, Arbor Rising team members joined us from New York to co-facilitate a discussion about the Fountain Fund’s theory of change model – an essential compass that will guide decision-making as we grow. The board also reflected upon stories emerging from internal program data that reveal how our nation’s current socio-economic and political volatility is leading to increased struggle for the clients and communities we serve. Insights gleaned through conversations like these ensure that our lending and financial literacy programs are as responsive and impactful as possible.
The Fountain Fund Board of Directors
WELCOME NEW BOARD MEMBERS
Margaret Hall and Felicia Rinier bring passion and expertise to our expanding board. Welcome!
Boston
CLIENT PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Stephen Pina
It’s one o’clock on a Tuesday afternoon when the interview with Stephen Pina gets underway. He’s halfway between a morning meeting, lunch and a panel discussion that is set to start within the hour. We video chat for twenty minutes in his car, before he asks if there’s any chance we can walk and talk.
“Of course,” I reply. In this short time together, one thing is abundantly clear… as a reentry advocate, Stephen’s commitment is absolute, his resolve unwavering. And the hat he wears says it all, he is never not working.
What drives his urgency and determination? Stephen spent nearly three decades in prison for a murder that he didn’t commit. In 2022, new evidence resulted in his release. Just recently, after two years, eleven months and three days, Stephen says with relief, “The judge overturned my conviction and vacated the sentence.” At long last, Stephen is fully exonerated.
“Since I’ve been home,” Stephen shares, “I advocate heavy. I take any opportunity I can to help someone get out of a wrongful conviction. I believe it’s a hidden epidemic that needs to be recognized in the same way as the opioid crisis.” He continues, “I also show up in spaces to talk about post-incarceration trauma, post-incarceration syndrome and the mental health issues that result from time behind bars.”
The ability to easily and reliably get around town is pivotal to Stephen’s advocacy and outreach efforts. So, when his vehicle started to falter, he wasn’t quite sure where to turn. His car was given to him as a gift from a friend when he was released, and as such, it holds sentimental value. Stephen knew about the Fountain Fund through his work in the reentry sphere, so he decided to reach out and explore options. Within no time, a $5,900 auto repair loan had been approved, and he was able to get his car back on the road! He made his first payment in February 2025 and is excited about the chance to watch his credit grow while continuing his lifechanging work. Thank you, Stephen, for moving through the world with a Herculean heart.
Stephen Pina, Community Engagement Associate at the Exoneree Network
BOSTON FACTS
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
95% “Transformed my life for the better.”
97% “Feel empowered to overcome barriers
in my life.”
ACTIVE LOAN PORTFOLIO
As of February 28, 2025, Boston’s active loan portfolio included 9 loans valued at nearly $25,751!
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
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“I wish more people knew about your low-interest loans. You helped me build credit and keep working. Thank you.”
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“A lot of places say they want to help this population, but when you get down to applying, they shut you down and block you out. Working with Jay was different. The first thing he wanted to know was my story, and that was beautiful.”
Client Partner Joe Sierra celebrates his education loan.
PROGRAM PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
InnerCity Weightlifting
InnerCity Weightlifting’s mission is to amplify the voice and agency of people who have been most impacted by systemic racism and mass incarceration. As shared on their website, “This is not your typical gym. It’s a culture and community in which the power dynamics are flipped, social capital is bridged, and new leaders emerge in the fight to combat longstanding inequities.”
Program participants are supported through case management and careers in and beyond personal training. Individuals are elevated as fitness experts and revered for their life wisdom. ICW also helps program participants by connecting them with other reentry organizations! Joe Sierra was recently referred to the Fountain Fund for a loan to pay tuition for his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Today, Joe is on his way to a promising new career.
STRENGTHENING BOSTON’S REENTRY ECOSYSTEM, ONE CONNECTION AT A TIME
Each quarter, the Boston Reentry Partners Breakfast brings together leaders, advocates, and organizations working to support individuals returning from incarceration. Shares Jay Vilar, Boston Site Director, “The room is always filled with energy, collaboration, and new connections!” He emphasizes, “Reentry is not a solo journey, and neither is the work of supporting it. When we build strong networks between reentry partners, we create a more effective, comprehensive, and sustainable ecosystem for success.” Interested in joining an upcoming reentry breakfast or becoming involved as a volunteer or donor? Contact us at 617.229.5131, to learn more.
We thank the Patriots Foundation for believing in our mission! Their support makes these gatherings possible.
SITE DIRECTOR JAY VILAR TO SPEAK AT
TEDX ROXBURY
On Saturday, May 3, Jay Vilar, Boston Site Director, takes the stage to present: How Choosing Happiness Can Have Generational Benefits. Shares Jay, “Speaking at TEDx has been one of those big, audacious dreams—the kind that sits on your vision board, waiting for the right moment. And now, that moment is here.” Visit TEDx Roxbury to purchase tickets. Let’s raise the roof for Jay!
CLIENT PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Edwin Melton
Sitting down with Edwin Melton for a cup of coffee and a conversation is like walking into a novel. He starts out at the beginning, and before you know it, you’ve journeyed a lifetime.
Edwin was raised in a hardworking, middle-class family with a workaholic dad who devoted his career to the union and a mom who made her way up through the ranks into finance at the Franklin Mint. During his life, Edwin has served as a young journalist for the union, mastered the art of drywall finishing (where he became a union journeyman), and so much more. He also spent time in prison. While there, he found a love of the law, completed a paralegal degree, and began serving as a jailhouse lawyer — supporting other inmates as they prepared for trial.
The intense work ethic that Edwin witnessed in childhood became a guiding force that propels him to this day. So, when Edwin approached the Fountain Fund for a $9,200 loan to help him launch his home repair business called Melton Husband For Hire, Inc., we knew he would succeed.
A summary of reviews on NextDoor states: “Mr. Melton comes highly recommended for his reliable, professional, and affordable services. He is praised for his versatility and ability to handle a wide range of tasks from drywall repair and painting to deck restoration. Clients appreciate his punctuality, fair pricing, and excellent communication." Edwin's services are, "considered a ‘find’ by many, and he is often sought after for various home projects.”
Now that Edwin is rebuilding his life, he believes, “It’s up to me to give something back.” Serving others through his business is one step in that direction. As an ex-offender, he also believes, “You owe the community for all you have taken in the days of doing wrong. And if you fully change, then you can rest and enjoy.”
And how does Edwin spend his leisure time when he isn’t working on home improvement projects around town? He’s writing several books. Shares Edwin, “If you wanna be a rapper, you got to move to Atlanta. You wanna be a movie star? You got to go to California. You wanna be an author? To be able to write your own truth?” He pauses for effect, “You got to live in Charlottesville." So that’s exactly where he is. Building his dream.
Edwin makes home projects easy through his business Melton Husband for Hire.
CVILLE
CHARLOTTESVILLE FACTS
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
99% “Felt empowered to overcome barriers in life.”
96%“Transformed lives for the better.”
ACTIVE LOAN PORTFOLIO
As of February 28, 2025, Charlottesville’s active loan portfolio included 162 loans valued at $658,967!
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
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“Getting the loan wasn’t easy, but everyone, especially Paul, made sure I had a strong business plan, that everything was in order. He was a guiding hand. He made it hard on me, but it paid off.
PROGRAM PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Keys to Love
Thank you, Uhuru Foundation, for making our community stronger through Keys to Love! As shared on their website, “Keys to Love is a supportive program for men who are returning citizens in recovery from substance use disorders. The program addresses the needs of men with safe and substance-free housing, wrap-around support, life coaching, peer support, and links to education, employment, healthcare, and other services. The program is recovery-oriented and focuses on homelessness prevention, reentry, and hard-to-reach adults. Keys to Love is part of Uhuru's family-centered approach to keeping families connected and supporting the broader community.”
AN UNFORGETTABLE SCREENING
OF DAUGHTERS
In late March, the Fountain Fund co-hosted over 75 guests for an unforgettable screening of Daughters. This award-winning documentary follows the journey of four young girls preparing for a special Daddy-Daughter Dance with their incarcerated fathers. The movie’s potent arc highlights the power of love, resilience, and second chances. Critics rave: “This film will crack your heart wide open.” And “It’s rare to see a documentary so unafraid.”
This community event also included an inside look at filming with Angela Patton, the movie’s Co-Director & Executive Producer, and an engaging Q&A with local reentry leaders and changemakers. If you haven’t seen the movie, be sure to check it out! This is more than just a film — it’s a movement. A conversation. A chance to uplift voices and advocate for families impacted by the criminal justice system.
Moderator Sarad Davenport (far left) led a robust conversation with Angela Patton, Eddie Harris, Martize Tolbert, Dr. Cathy Ames Turner, and Earl Gladden. In addition to filming Daughters, Ms. Patton is also CEO of Girls For A Change, a national nonprofit with a bold mission: to prepare Black girls for the world—and the world for Black girls. (Photo by Alicia B Studios)
CLIENT PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Jirrico McKee
The Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) is the nation’s largest reentry employment provider. They prepare individuals for the workforce after incarceration, and Jirrico McKee is an essential part of their team. In his role as Job Coach/Retention Specialist, he’s involved in job readiness training, offers transitional coaching and works alongside individuals as they step into new employment.
As someone who was previously incarcerated, Jirrico knows how hard reentry can be. “A lot of us have been through so much. You get out of prison, and you think ‘I’m going to go home. I’m going to do the right thing.’ And then when you get out, there’s so many different things coming at you - so many obligations, so many doors that get closed on you. It’s discouraging.”
His experience as a Reentry Instructor while behind bars created the perfect foundation for him to assist others upon their release. Since reestablishing his life in New Orleans, Jirrico has become knowledgeable about a multitude of reentry organizations, and he tries his best to point others in the right direction.
It was through an informal conversation with Meagan Jordan, Economic Opportunity Facilitator, that he learned about the Fountain Fund’s lending and financial literacy offerings. One day, she urged, “If you know of anyone who might need our services, send them over.” Shortly thereafter, Jirrico referred several clients, and that simple connection became new loans helping great people.
Then one day, when Jirrico’s own car broke down and needed significant repairs, he found himself in a bind. The inability to get to work could jeopardize his job, and he knew he couldn’t afford time off. “Yeah, the Fountain Fund really came through in a clutch!” he recalls. “Everything went through quick. Not too much red tape or delay. I was able to get my vehicle repaired without having to be out of work.” Keep making the world a better place, Jirrico! We’re so glad you’ve got reliable wheels to get you where you need to go.
Client Partner Jirrico McKee shares wisdom with returning citizens.
NOLA
DIFFERENT LOANS FOR DIFFERENT FOLKS
Individuals approach the Fountain Fund for a variety of reasons, but transportation, housing and business loans are often at the top of the list. The following stories offer a glimpse into how loans in NOLA are making a difference.
HOUSING
As the recipient of four loans, Mr. Finney is an excellent example of how having access to low-interest capital - coupled with support from a caring team - is improving lives. Over the past several years, he has secured loans to help with vehicle purchases, auto repairs and, most recently, support for housing. Fountain Fund team members remark on his bubbly personality, generous heart, and for paying off his loans well in advance!
BUSINESS
Growing a small company is exciting and daunting. This is especially true for previously incarcerated individuals where barriers to traditional bank loans are so entrenched in our society. So, when Mr. Johnson approached the Fountain Fund for a $4,500 loan to upgrade his business, we were excited to help make that happen. Funds allowed him to purchase a new backpack blower, a lawn mower, a weed eater and more. Now Mr. Johnson’s business is stronger than ever.
PROGRAM PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Vote/Voice of the Experienced
The Fountain Fund in New Orleans is always on the lookout for strong partners to connect with and support. One agency that deserves a huge shoutout is Voice of the Experienced! As shared on their website, “VOTE is a grassroots organization founded and run by formerly incarcerated people, their families and their allies. They are dedicated to restoring the full human and civil rights of those most impacted by the criminal (in)justice system.” The phenomenal individuals working with VOTE have, “the experiences, expertise and power to improve public safety in Louisiana and beyond without relying on mass incarceration.”
NEW ORLEANS FACTS
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
95% “Have hope for the future.”
97% “Established trust & felt supported by team.
ACTIVE LOAN PORTFOLIO
As of February 28, 2025, New Orlean’s active loan portfolio included 41 loans valued at $72,284!
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
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“When you actually find a resource that is of value, a nonprofit organization like the Fountain Fund that actually does what it says? I mean that’s very meaningful in a lot of people’s lives.”
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“More programs need to be like the Fountain Fund. Seriously. I know you guys can’t help every single person, but you guys go out of your way to at least try.”
CLIENT PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Reggie Jenkins
As a military kid and a Navy vet, Reggie Jenkins has lived all over the world. He was born in a small town called Pine Tops, North Carolina, but he’s also experienced big cities like Okinawa, Los Angeles, and New York. Prior to incarceration, he worked for more than a decade helping address homelessness and AIDS through advocacy and outreach in Manhattan. These efforts brought Reggie the Commissioner’s Award – two years in a row! Even still, the transition to Philadelphia was filled with uncertainty.
Reggie needed to create a new place to call home: land a job, get an apartment, find community, build friendships and so much more. It was vast. A turning point came when he reminded himself, “Just be yourself, talk to people, be genuinely, authentically you, and let God guide you.” And that’s what he did.
Through a connection at the Office of Veteran’s Affairs, Reggie found out about the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) and enrolled in their Emerging Leaders Program. Shortly thereafter, he was hired as Senior Community Intervention Specialist, a role specifically designed and created for his unique skill set and inspiring life story!
Reggie’s exciting new job demanded trustworthy transportation. And that’s where a $13,300 auto loan from the Fountain Fund came in. Not only is this loan helping him build credit, reinforce his personal accountability goals and fulfill the responsibilities of his new role, it’s also allowing him to do what he does best … help other people.
In his role with CEO, Reggie brings his caring heart and natural networking skills to life. The reentry community in Philadelphia is lucky to have him in their midst!
PHILLY
ON HIS WAY TO HOME OWNERSHIP
Thanks to his full-time job and credit building success, Reggie is planting the seeds to purchase his first home! He discovered the Philly First Home Program through a supportive conversation with the Fountain Fund team. Sharing knowledge. Building bridges. Rising to a brighter tomorrow.
PHILADELPHIA FACTS
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
100% “Improved understanding of credit.”
100% “Have hope for the future.”
100% “Were not reincarcerated.”
ACTIVE LOAN PORTFOLIO
As of February 28, 2025, Philadelphia’s active loan portfolio included 82 loans valued at $574,972!
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
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“The fact that someone literally sat me down. Talked with me about interest rates. Talked with me about credit. … it was like, ‘Oh, you really do give a damn!’”
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“I'm thankful for the opportunity to be able to do what I love and provide for myself and my family in a positive way"
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“When you see people at the Fountain Fund, it invigorates you. It makes you keep going. I was burning out. You guys recharged me.”
PROGRAM PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Center for Employment
Opportunities
The Fountain Fund and the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) have created strong referral pathways in both Philadelphia and New Orleans. In fact, in Philadelphia, our agency is fortunate to share office space with this impactful nonprofit! CEO is a nationwide agency that works to reduce recidivism and increase employment. As shared on their website, “We provide people returning from prison immediate paid employment, skills training, and ongoing career support. … CEO guarantees every participant who completes a brief paid orientation up to four days a week of transitional work on a crew and daily pay – a critical asset during an important time. In addition to work and daily pay, CEO provides a robust set of wraparound vocational support services. Once participants find full-time positions, CEO continues working with them for a year to ensure they have the support to grow in their careers.”
MICHAEL BUTLER, SITE DIRECTOR,
BECOMES ADJUNCT PROFESSOR
The Fountain Fund congratulates Mike Butler, Philadelphia Site Director, for becoming a University of Pennsylvania Adjunct Professor. Mike is currently co-teaching a course called “Social Impact Entrepreneurship” through PREP-WORKS, a partnership between the University of Pennsylvania’s Social Policy and Practice Department and the Wharton School. This eight-week course brings business education to returning citizens! Participants attend a group course, receive one-on-one business plan advising from Wharton MBAs, develop a viable business plan and receive a certificate from Wharton. Congratulations Mike! You inspire.
CLIENT PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Karen Grant
Whenever the Fountain Fund approves a loan, one of our greatest hopes is that it will create upward economic mobility and new opportunities – now and in the future – for the individuals we serve.
Has Karen Grant’s life trajectory been improved because of her car loan? She answers with an unequivocal and enthusiastic, “Yes! One hundred percent!!!” She adds, “The loan is helping me follow-through on my personal intentions, one of which is building credit. My credit had fallen off for nearly eight years. Today, I’m turning that all around.”
Karen’s new car has also helped her elevate in her role as project coordinator with Recovery Corps at REAL LIFE. Each day, she shares her hard-earned wisdom with others, many of whom have been previously incarcerated and are struggling to overcome substance use and mental health disorders. Karen works with 80+ clients: leading support groups, helping individuals navigate programs, conducting employment follow-ups, and staying connected with alumni to make sure they are staying true to their recovery.
When asked to describe three of the most important tools to success on her own journey, Karen pauses for a moment to reflect and then shares: Accountability. Responsibility. Consistency.
She remarks, “One of the things that often comes with addiction is that there are no borders. No boundaries. No rules.” By using these tools as building blocks for a new life one begins to break the chain and set the stage for healing. Karen has over three and a half years of sobriety. Recovery, she will tell you, starts with small steps that lead to big change.
Karen Grant supports others on their recovery journey. An auto loan from the Fountain Fund is helping her thrive… personally and professionally!
RICHMOND FACTS
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
97% “Achieved better financial stability.”
100% “Achieved primary loan goal.”
ACTIVE LOAN PORTFOLIO
As of February 28, 2025, Richmond’s active loan portfolio included 76 loans valued at nearly $359,164!
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
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“The whole process was very easy from start to finish. And today I can proudly say that my life is only going forward from here. … If you ever need anything, I suggest you reach out to the Fountain Fund. They’re nothing but good people.
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“Everything with the Fountain Fund was smooth. Thomas’ communication was great. He was precise and made everything clear.”
PROGRAM PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
A Better Day Than Yesterday
Tom Mundy, Richmond Site Director, is always looking for positive and effective ways to network with other reentry agencies. Today, we shine a light on the important work being done by A Better Day Than Yesterday. Their mission is to educate, empower, and equip at-risk families with the skills to overcome adversities caused by incarceration, divorce, and military deployment. As shared on their website, an astounding “103,000 Virginia children will have had a parent behind bars during their youth.”
This nonprofit offers a variety of K-12 youth programs whose goal is to, “reduce the pain and stigma experienced by children, improve communications between the child and the incarcerated parent(s), and make visitations more child-friendly and less traumatic.” They also offer an array of adult programs that focus on strengthening basic literacy skills which are essential for securing a job and reducing the likelihood of recidivism after imprisonment.
CELEBRATING OUR NEW HOME
IN SHOCKOE SLIP
Our new space is conveniently located near bus lines in the heart of downtown Richmond. Interested in applying for a loan, volunteering or becoming a supporter?
Call 804-214-7151 to learn more.
Site Director Tom Mundy congratulates a Client Partner on his loan closing at the Fountain Fund’s new office in Shockoe Slip.
