Mechanician changing car wheel in auto repair shop

For Fred, Support Led to Stability—and the Chance to Pay It Forward

Public Sector Solutions, Public Safety & Reentry

HEAR FROM FRED

“This was a chance to turn things around and be part of something that will hopefully help others.”

After more than three decades in and out of custody and probation, Fred had become accustomed to instability and turmoil. That’s why, when he was referred to Interface Children & Family Services—a California-based nonprofit service provider dedicated to promoting family stability and economic opportunity for those on formal probation—he had doubts that the program would change his situation.

A case worker began meeting with Fred while he was in custody to build trust and rapport. After his case worker referred him to clinical services, Fred began to gain new insight into his behavior. Soon, Fred began mentoring other Interface participants.

Fred received the support he needed thanks to an innovative partnership between Interface, Ventura County, CA, and Social Finance called Tackling Recidivism in Ventura County, California. Over time, this support helped him create a more stable life. He now operates a successful automotive repair business and hopes to begin volunteering to help others find their way.


No one had ever done anything for us before. To me this was a chance to get some help, turn things around, and also be a part of something that will hopefully continue to help others before they get to the point I was at when I started.Fred, Ventura County Project to Support Reentry participant

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