Starting Fresh Reentry Resource Fair
Louisville Free Public Library
Innovation Synopsis
Starting Fresh is a one-stop shop that seeks to connect participants with tools and resources for a successful reentry into society - including support with job preparation, financial solutions, housing assistance, educational opportunities, mental health services, and substance abuse support. Attendees can receive personalized guidance from experts, join hands-on workshops, and benefit from vital services like health screenings and technology training.
Challenge/Opportunity
Purpose and Impact:
Many reentry services require individuals to visit multiple agencies across the city, which can be overwhelming when navigating transportation, childcare, and appointment logistics. Our goal was to simplify this process by gathering these services in one accessible location, helping people connect with what they need to rebuild their lives and futures.
Key Elements of Innovation
Structure
• Panel discussions on Violence Reduction & Family Reunification from subject matter experts
• Outside organizations provided
- Mental health support
- Expungement clinics
- Legal aid
- Interview preparation
- Medical screenings
- Housing support
- Food assistance
- Free, supervised play area for children
- Job search and résumé help
- Computer classes
Implementation
• Community partners and library staff met monthly to establish services and to gain buy-in from partners that already provide services
• Open dialogue meeting the needs of this population was discussed and addressed
Goals
• To offer access to legal resources and services for underserved populations
• To build partnerships with community partners to enhance the educational experiences among minority groups
• To host speakers related to the history/education of minority groups
• To encourage network opportunities for racial/ethnic minorities and promote discourse on racial justice
Achieved Outcomes
Final Reflections
Overall, Starting Fresh: Reentry Resource Fair was a tremendous success. The energy in the room was real, hopeful, honest, and full of purpose. The panel discussions were especially impactful. They were raw, informative, and deeply engaging. Participants shared openly, asked thoughtful questions, and connected in meaningful ways. These conversations were a clear highlight of the day.
Our keynote speaker, Savvy Kareem Abdul Shabazz, delivered a powerful message. His story of transformation set the tone for a day centered on second chances, healing, and empowerment. It made sense that the fair happened during Second Chances Month.
Community Feedback
The response from community partners and attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed appreciation not just for the services provided, but for the thoughtfulness of the event's design and flow.
One community partner shared, “I enjoyed sharing information with the public...]"
