Kendrick Howard

Kendrick first came to the First 72+ as a client in January 2025 after serving 31 years in Angola State Penitentiary. While in Angola, Kendrick worked as a mentor for RDAP, a residential drug addiction program. 

As a client with the First 72+,  Kendrick participated in workforce training with the Deep South Center for Environmental Justice. He received six certifications for working in construction, weatherization, hazmat, and asbestos. 

Now, as a re-entry coach, Kendrick gets to do his favorite thing every day: help people. His work is deeply personal – he sees himself in the people coming to him for help, and The First 72+ feels like a family to him. He says of his work: “A lot of people are going through different things that I’ve been through… I’m trying to be that light for them.” 

Outside of work, Kendrick enjoys spending time with his family and designing his clothing line. In addition to continuing his work at the First 72+, Kendrick hopes to develop an educational program for young people who are at risk of incarceration.

Kendrick feels proud of the work of the First 72+ and proud of himself every day for furthering its mission.