Our Story
First Step Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to financial empowerment and successful reentry for justice-involved individuals. Founded by financial services professionals and community leaders with lived experience, we are committed to expanding access to the knowledge, resources, and support people need to build a stronger future.
Our Fresh Start programs combine practical education with individualized coaching and peer mentoring that help participants improve their financial skills and confidence. Beyond education, access to affordable banking services is essential to achieving financial independence. Many of the individuals we serve face barriers to mainstream banking, and we help them connect with
low-cost services that provide a pathway to greater inclusion.
Partnerships with mission-aligned organizations, agencies, and academic institutions help us reach community members who can benefit from our programs.
You've done your time. You deserve more than just a fighting chance.
Our Mission
To help justice-involved individuals create a path to financial empowerment and successful reentry by providing financial education, entrepreneurship training, peer mentoring, and access to affordable banking services.
Our Vision
A future where justice-involved individuals have broad access to safe and inclusive financial systems, supported by a First Step Alliance community loan program and a groundbreaking not-for-profit financial cooperative.
Our Values
Inclusion
Everyone should have access to the resources they need for a more secure financial future, no matter their background or circumstances.
Acceptance
The past should not define the future. We support each person's journey without judgment.
Fairness
We promote just and consistent practices that remove barriers and increase opportunity.
Trust
Our relationships are grounded in mutual respect, compassion, shared experience, and integrity.
Transparency
We are committed to listening, communicating openly and honestly, and staying accountable to our community.
