Georgia has a HUGE problem with Incarceration
In Georgia, nearly 1 in 3 people released from prison are re-arrested within 3 years. Every year, thousands of Metro-Atlanta residents return home from incarceration. Despite what many people may believe, most want the same things we all do — steady work, a safe place to live, and the chance to move forward. But without support, the road back can be steep.
"In Georgia, nearly 1 in 3 people released from prison are re-arrested within 3 years."
Despite the many cries many politicians and community figures receive each day, there is still no clear path for justice-impacted citizens to regain stability. There are very minimal resources available, most are disqualified because of their background. Major employers across the United States are bound by legalities and, oftentimes, prejudice toward these residents despite their willingness to work. A recent study showed that 60% of US hiring managers declined to employ people with a criminal background.
These systematic problems have led to a nearly 50% recidivism rate in the state of Georgia. A problem that affects every Georgian taxpayer. A problem that, fortunately, is not hard to solve!
Stable employment is the single most effective way to break that cycle. Studies show that formerly incarcerated individuals who find work are 20% less likely to return to prison.
Yet, across Fulton County, too many justice-impacted residents are left without training, job placement, or support to make that leap.
1000 Strong: Conviction to Career Campaign
1000 Strong: From Conviction to Career is Georgia Vocational Solutions’ annual campaign to change that. Our goal is simple but bold: help 1,000 local residents move from conviction to career by giving them the tools, training, and guidance to thrive. This is our initial phase to achieving a $2,980,000 goal and we need your help!
Help 1,000 local residents move from conviction to career
When you give, you’re helping provide:
Hands-on job training in high-demand fields like construction, safety, and trade skills.
Career certifications that open the door to better-paying work.
One-on-one coaching and mentorship that keeps people on track.
Partnership pathways with local employers ready to hire.
This isn’t about handouts — it’s about hand-ups. It’s about equipping men and women right here in Atlanta with the chance to rebuild, earn a paycheck, and strengthen our neighborhoods.
Your support has an immediate impact.
Atlanta is a city built on resilience, grit, and second chances. Together, we can stand behind 1,000 strong — and make sure conviction isn’t the end of the story, but the start of a new one.
Interested in Partnering With GVS to Sponsoring Multiple Students?
GVS is eager to connect with organizations and powerful individuals who are looking to make a significant impact in the lives of our students and their families. They need full tuition with GVS as we offer several wrap-around services needed to aid our student's success. Services like transportation, food, housing, case management, outreach, and more. As a tuition sponsor, you are recognized as a partner with GVS with many perks to come with it; including first dibs on an eager workforce and training opportunities for your specific field
If this is you, contact media-relations@mygvs.org and speak to our Fundraising team to get started!
We accept in-kind donations!
A gift-in-kind is a donation or contribution of items that add value to the Georgia Vocational Solutions (GVS) educational experience. When received, any gift-in-kind becomes the property of GVS, and the program will decide the best use of the gift. We will consider using the gift to enrich a specific area of campus or student supplies, but we also reserve the right to sell, exchange or discard items that do not match our current needs. Examples of a gift-in-kind could include but not be limited to book collections, office equipment, building supplies, transportation vehicles, and artwork. To make a gift-in-kind, please contact the Office of Grants and Giving at giving@mygvs.org.