The mission of The First 72+ is to stop the cycle of incarceration by fostering independence and self-sustainability through education, stable and secure housing & employment, health care, and community engagement. Through the leadership and wisdom of formerly incarcerated people themselves, the First 72+ transforms the re-entry experience into one that builds on the strengths and abilities of people returning home from prison and ensures that they, their families, and their communities are given the greatest opportunity to grow and thrive.
Residential and non-residential clients of The First 72+ come to us from referrals by the Parole Board, local attorneys, legal organizations, state and federal courts, family members of incarcerated people, and direct inquiries from currently incarcerated people and people recently released. Potential clients who are not currently incarcerated are also free to walk through our doors and do an intake to receive services. During the first three days we support clients with clothes, food, accessing vital records, enrollment in public benefits, visits with parole/probation, and healthcare (through the FIT Clinic). We recently built our second transitional house, The Ben Smith Welcome Home Center. Along with our first transitional house, we have 15 available beds for clients coming home. Even if we are not able to house someone, we are able to provide ongoing case management, peer-mentorship, reentry legal services, and support with small business development.
Students will learn how to work with at-risk and vulnerable populations by providing them with support on basic life skills.
| Adults | People with disabilities |
| People who are facing criminal charges or prosecution | People with a criminal history |
| People who have been incarcerated | People with low literacy |
| People who are homeless or in transitional housing situations | People dealing with mental or physical illness |
| Other staff members at the agency |
Students interested must attend an orientation.
Monday - Friday
8:30am - 4:30pm
Courtney Evans
Director of Client Services
courtney@first72plus.org
504.418.5725
Biking • 25 min
Public transit • 45 min
Driving • 12 min