CFFC’s Largest Grant Awarded for Reentry Support
Larry Kiefer, Abby Donahue, Kim Hawk, Rita Masi, Jessica Hajek-Bates, Ron Gabriel
With proceeds from the Gala of Giving, the Community Foundation of Fayette County (CFFC) awarded its largest grant ever to support reentry programming for residents exiting the Fayette County Jail. This year’s Catalyst for Change Grant is funding $100,000 for the Pathways to Reintegration Initiative at Fayette County Community Action Agency, Inc. (FCCAA).
The new program will establish dedicated post‑release reentry support for residents leaving the Fayette County Jail, addressing a critical need for services that help residents carry the goals they set during incarceration into their return home. FCCAA already delivers strong pre‑release workforce development planning through federal funding and its partnership with the jail’s nationally recognized IGNITE Program; this grant will allow the organization to extend that support beyond the jail walls.
By adding staff focused solely on post‑release services, FCCAA will strengthen continuity of care at the most vulnerable stage of reentry, improving access to resources, promoting long‑term stability, and reducing the likelihood of reoffending.
“Our board of directors made this selection after a careful and comprehensive review process,” said Ron Gabriel, Chair of the CFFC Board of Directors. “Each year, the Catalyst for Change Grants address an area of need, and this year’s investment takes meaningful steps toward creating safer, stronger futures for all who call Fayette County home.”
Through the Pathways to Reintegration Initiative, reentrants will be connected to workforce development services, education, and professional attire, as well as assistance with essential identification documents, transportation, and housing.
Through coordinated partnerships, reentrants will also access comprehensive support, including addiction recovery resources, to help them rebuild stability and move toward long‑term success.
“This grant is instrumental in helping individuals transition into the workforce after release from jail by providing the support for essential employment needs and other necessary resources to help them gain and maintain employment while working toward self-sufficiency,” said Kimberly Hawk, FCCAA’s Chief Executive Officer.
“We were excited to award our first Catalyst for Change Grant for a project that includes people from all across the county and sparks economic growth by bringing people together for a special show in town,” said Renee M. Couser, CFFC Executive Director.