Supporting Successful Reintegration

The Twelfth Street Heritage Development Corporation is leading the way in providing essential support for individuals recently released from prison, as well as those at risk of incarceration. Through its Re-Entry Prevention Program, the organization offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to help participants reintegrate into society with dignity, stability, and purpose.

This initiative recognizes that successful re-entry is about more than securing a job—it’s about transforming lives, building resilience, and creating safer, more vibrant communities. The program is rooted in a holistic approach, addressing emotional, financial, behavioral, and health-related needs alongside employment support. At its core, Twelfth Street’s mission is to reduce recidivism and violence by empowering individuals with tools, opportunities, and community connections that lead to long-term success.

The Challenges Of Re-Entry In Kansas City

Across Kansas City, many formerly incarcerated individuals face a daunting journey after release. Local and state data reveal that nearly 40% of individuals released from Missouri prisons are re-incarcerated within three years. This high recidivism rate is often driven by persistent barriers such as:

• Limited job opportunities
• Financial instability
• Emotional and behavioral health challenges
• Stigma surrounding criminal records
• Lack of access to stable housing or social support

The transition from incarceration to community life can be overwhelming, particularly for those without access to resources. Many individuals lack work history, job skills, and education. Others struggle with emotional trauma, mental health conditions, or unresolved conflict that can lead to re-offending if left unaddressed.

These issues are compounded in Kansas City, which continues to face one of the highest violent crime rates in the state. Without support, the cycle of violence and incarceration continues—affecting individuals, families, and entire neighborhoods.

A Comprehensive, Community-Based Solution

The Twelfth Street Re-Entry Prevention Program is designed to break this cycle by offering comprehensive, wraparound services. By focusing on the whole person, the program equips participants with the tools and support necessary to build sustainable, positive lives.

Key services include:

Employment and Job Readiness

• Daily work opportunities through the organization’s lawn care program, providing immediate income and hands-on job experience.
• Job readiness training, focusing on professional behavior, punctuality, and workplace communication.
• Workshops and one-on-one coaching to build skills in resume writing, interviewing, and navigating the job market.
• Job placement assistance through partnerships with local businesses, connecting participants to meaningful employment.

Emotional and Behavioral Support

• Individual and group counseling sessions to promote emotional intelligence, address trauma, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
• Conflict resolution and stress management training to reduce the risk of future violence or criminal behavior.
• Peer support groups, creating a space for shared experiences, encouragement, and accountability.

Financial Literacy

• Workshops on budgeting, saving, and managing credit.
• Personalized financial coaching to help participants gain control of their finances and build toward future goals.

Health and Wellness

• Physical and mental health workshops, including guidance on nutrition, physical activity, and preventive care.
• Access to mental health professionals for counseling, crisis intervention, and long-term support.

Mentorship and Community Engagement

• Mentor pairing with individuals who have successfully navigated the re-entry process.
• Community service activities to foster connection, pride, and a sense of contribution.

Addressing Root Causes To Promote Lasting Change

The program’s design is based on a deep understanding of the underlying causes of recidivism and incarceration. By tackling issues like job instability, unresolved trauma, financial insecurity, and lack of social support, Twelfth Street offers participants a genuine opportunity to turn their lives around.

This approach is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves a second chance—and with the right resources and encouragement, individuals can move beyond their past to build a better future. For many participants, this is the first time they’ve had access to structured, compassionate, and consistent support.

Real Needs, Real Impact

The Twelfth Street Re-Entry Prevention Program was created in direct response to community needs identified by local data and the experiences of residents. These needs include:

• Comprehensive re-entry support that goes beyond employment.
• Access to stable, supportive work environments.
• Skill-building in financial literacy, communication, and emotional resilience.
• Reduction of barriers caused by stigma and social isolation.
• Targeted violence prevention education.

By addressing these needs, the program not only supports individual success but also contributes to a safer, healthier Kansas City. Participants become role models, employees, neighbors, and mentors—shaping a community that values growth and inclusion over punishment and exclusion.

Program Goals & Community Benefits

The Twelfth Street Re-Entry Prevention Program aims to:

• Reduce recidivism by supporting individuals through the most vulnerable stages of re-entry.
• Increase employment stability through job training and placement.
• Improve emotional health and conflict resolution skills to prevent violence.
• Foster financial literacy and independence.
• Strengthen community ties and build a network of support that uplifts returning citizens.

The long-term vision is not just to help individuals avoid re-incarceration, but to help them thrive—building productive, fulfilling lives that contribute to community well-being.

A Vision For Transformation

The Twelfth Street Heritage Development Corporation believes in the power of community-based solutions to complex social issues. With continued investment, collaboration, and innovation, the Re-Entry Prevention Program has the potential to transform not only individual lives—but entire neighborhoods.

By meeting people where they are and walking alongside them as they rebuild, Twelfth Street offers more than services. It offers hope, direction, and a future free from the cycles of poverty, crime, and incarceration.

For Kansas City to thrive, every resident must have access to the support they need to succeed—and the Twelfth Street Re-Entry Prevention Program is making that possible, one life at a time.

Locations

Click on the window icon (upper right corner) of the map below to expand. List of all program locations is included with expanded view of map. Locations are also listed on this page below the map.