Second Chances, Real Jobs: How Uplift Solutions Reduces Recidivism | Atif Bostic
Release Date: 01/13/2026
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info_outlineAtif shares how Uplift evolved from tackling food deserts to becoming a workforce development engine with pathways like CDL, HVAC, and transitional “same-day work and pay”, while keeping the mission focused on dignity, stability, and long-term support.
In this conversation, you’ll hear:How Uplift has connected 1,500+ people to employment and impacted 3,000+ lives
Why their model supports participants for three years post-program, and how that ties to their 2% recidivism rate
The case for shifting from criminal justice to restorative justice, and why over-criminalization harms communities.
- What employers need to understand about second-chance hiring: the talent is real, and often outperforms when given an opportunity
- Why community, proximity, and relationships change outcomes (and what “NIMBY” has to do with it)
- Why collaboration beats competition, and how partners are building a broader continuum of support in North Philadelphia
- Uplift Solutions: Uplift Solutions Official Website
- Food For Thought - Men's Support Group: https://www.upliftsolutions.org/programs/food-for-thought
- City of Philadelphia Office of Reentry: https://www.phila.gov/departments/off...
- Hunting Park Neighborhood Resource Center: 2221 West Venango Street, Philadelphia, PA 19140
If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to the Opening Doors Podcast and share it with others who might benefit from these stories. Please visit https://openingdoorspodcast.com/ to subscribe to the newsletter. Remember, healing is a journey; you don’t have to walk it alone. Let’s open those doors together!
Opening Door Podcast Music by John Abella