Peer-led · Peer-run · Peer-driven
About Us
We’re a nonprofit built by and for people who have lived through incarceration, unemployment, and homelessness, because the people closest to the problem are closest to the solution.
Our History
Built on the idea that lived experience is expertise.
BPUSA was founded in 2017 on the belief that people closest to the problem are often closest to the solution. Since then, we’ve grown from a grassroots idea into a highly respected local coordinating agency for reentry services, and a majority of our leadership and staff have personal experience with the carceral system.
Our Mission
Our mission is to dismantle the cycle of incarceration, unemployment and homelessness among people with justice involvement and behavioral health challenges by providing transitional and support programs and services to them, their families and their communities.
Our Vision
Our vision is that formerly incarcerated individuals have the opportunity to successfully transition back into the community and go on to reach their full potential.
Why This Work Matters
Reentry communities need support.
Higher unemployment rate for formerly incarcerated people than the general population
People released from state prison will recidivate within nine years
More likely to experience homelessness than the general public
People released nationally are re-incarcerated within three years, per the US Department of Justice
What Is Peer Support?
Support from people who've been there.
Peer support is a non-clinical, person-centered, and trauma-informed model of care. It means the person helping you build your plan has likely faced the same barriers you’re facing now: reentry, unemployment, housing insecurity; and knows what actually works.
Our Model
A whole-person path toward wellness.
Emotional
Cope effectively and build satisfying relationships.
Environmental
Provide pleasant, stimulating spaces that support wellbeing.
Financial
Feel satisfaction with current and future financial standing.
Intellectual
Recognize creative abilities and build new skills.
Physical
Physical activity, healthy food, and sleep.
Social
A sense of connection, belonging, and support.
Spiritual
A sense of purpose and meaning in life.
Vocational
Personal satisfaction and enrichment from work.