After incarceration, rebuilding a life isn’t easy. Finding stable housing, securing a job, and accessing basic resources can feel like an uphill battle. But with the right support, it’s possible to turn things around.

One recent success story from New Horizons Healthcare demonstrates the power of this collaborative approach. A patient who had recently reentered the community after incarceration needed support in multiple areas—housing, employment, resume writing, and access to food resources. Recognizing the critical role financial stability plays in successful reintegration, a Community Health Worker (CHW) stepped in to provide guidance and connect him with essential services.

At United Way of Virginia’s Blue Ridge, we believe that financial security is key to building a stable, self-sufficient future. Through our partnerships with local organizations like New Horizons Healthcare, we help connect individuals with the resources they need to overcome barriers and achieve stability.

With support made possible in part through United Way’s CHW training and certification assistance, as well as financial support that helps fund the CHW’s salary, the CHW at New Horizons Healthcare was able to guide this individual toward local resources tailored to his needs. New Horizons Healthcare is one of three HUB partners funded by United Way, ensuring that CHWs have the resources they need to provide vital services in our community. The patient received information about TAP and other organizations that support formerly incarcerated individuals, as well as a list of landlords more open to renting to those with a criminal record. He was also provided with information on food assistance and employment support, including resume-building assistance and access to job fair resources.

Thanks to these efforts, the individual is now employed, has secured stable housing, and remains connected to ongoing support through New Horizons Healthcare. His journey toward financial security reflects the impact of our work with community partners—ensuring that more people in our region have the opportunity to rebuild and sustain their lives.

At United Way, we know that financial security is more than just a paycheck—it’s the foundation for long-term well-being. By investing in community organizations that provide direct support, we are helping to elevate individuals to self-sufficiency and create lasting change in our region.

When individuals and families achieve financial stability, the benefits extend far beyond their own households. A financially secure community sees lower crime rates, improved public health, and a stronger local economy. Stable employment leads to increased consumer spending, which supports local businesses and creates job opportunities for others. Additionally, reducing financial hardship decreases reliance on emergency services and social safety nets, allowing public resources to be reinvested in education, infrastructure, and other community improvements. By helping individuals build financial security, we are strengthening the entire region—creating a more resilient and thriving community for everyone.