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Happy Holidays From The First 72+!
First 72+ community, thank you for believing in a world where prior incarceration is not a barrier to, but rather a foundation for growing and creating a meaningful and impactful life.
As 2025 comes to a close, we want to wish everyone a happy holiday season and a fulfilling new year.
The Gift of a Fresh Start
In 2025, The First 72+ served over 700 clients.
- Over 120 clients received job placements.
- 30 clients were housed in our transitional homes.
- Over 50 young adults, aged 18 to 24, were served.
The opportunity to guide and support justice-impacted individuals through their reentry journeys, and the support we receive from the community to do so, are the most incredible gifts. Thank you!
Holiday Cheer Shared Over a Meal
The Celebration of The Season Meal, December 17, was a success! Our Culinary Program students prepared a delicious spread for everyone in attendance, and we gathered in community and camaraderie.
Co-Executive Director Pastor Tyrone Smith led a discussion centered on reflection and how we can mindfully move into 2026. Clients and staff shared what they learned in 2025 and how they plan to grow in the new year.
The holiday spirit and feeling of gratitude were palpable all around. Every client in attendance walked away with a gift card, a Leah's Praline, and a backpack with essential food and hygiene items. Thank you to everyone who came together to create this special moment!
Bringing the Holiday Joy
This holiday season, Ronnie, a transitional housing client voluntarily decorated a transitional house. Lights, garland, and trinkets were strung beautifully across the home, and reminded everyone at The First 72+ of the warmth and connection we can experience during this time of year.Ronnie explained that while incarcerated he was unable to participate in even the simplest holiday activities like decorating.
"When you're in prison you can't do any of this, you can't see any of this." Now that he is able to, Ronnie takes advantage of every holiday opportunity and ensures he shares that holiday joy with everyone he meets. Thank you, Ronnie!
The First 72+ Staff Bake-Off
Last week, staff also joined in on the holiday activities by having a festive-dress bake-off. Sweet potato pie, brownies, and cakes were served. Congratulations to Torrey for winning the bake-off with his scrumptious ooey gooey cake!
A special thanks to our guest judges: Co-Founder Blair Boutte, newly elected Clerk of Court Calvin Duncan, and Judge Marcus DeLarge for determining who would take the cake!
