Priscilla Turgon

Claymont, DE

In July 2013, I created the New Start re-entry program to guide offenders transitioning out of state and federal correctional institutions and equip them with the skills to successfully re-enter the workforce and contribute positively to their families and communities.

Project New Start Inc. is a nonprofit, comprehensive, holistic, collaborative program that provides both the technical and soft/emotional intelligence skills necessary for offenders to develop positive behaviors and secure employment. The program addresses issues such as poverty, stressed families and high educational dropout rates that contribute to violent crime.

From 1984 to 2013, as President of Professional Staffing Associates, Inc., my organization received state of Delaware funding for a business training program that I had created to assist at-risk individuals secure work.

Then, in July 2013, I made a very risky business, financial and personal decision to launch Project New Start. I embraced a new challenge – to help address the root causes of a violent crime epidemic in Wilmington, Delaware that had resulted in its designation as one of the most dangerous small cities in America.

Our work is making an impact:
1. Ex-offenders graduating from the New Start program are successfully transitioning back to their families, employment, and communities as demonstrated by a 95% placement rate for program graduates.
2. Recidivism has been reduced. At the cost of $35,000 per year to house an inmate in Delaware’s prisons, the program graduates who are sustaining success have saved the state $700,000.
3. Program graduates have developed a renewed sense of self-esteem and commitment to positive change and are now contributing, tax-paying citizens.

Here are testimonials to the impact of this program from graduates and partners:

“I used to love the streets and never considered working. The program was a great opportunity for us because as felons we have a very hard time finding people willing to give us a second chance.” Stephan

“This program has changed my life, and sent me on an emotional trajectory. I will never forget it…or you.” Clifton

“I can be a hard person to get along with, but you help me to see the real me and to focus on the most important things.” Edward

“I believe in what you’re attempting to accomplish. Don’t forget to save space for my probationers for your next class.” State Probation Officer

My advice to older workers is to continue your personal and professional growth, follow your passion, don’t be afraid to take risks, embrace the challenges and acknowledge your success!