Dromm, second from (r.) said, “I am proud to continue to support Fortune in their mission to ensure successful re-entry from prison and promote alternative incarceration programs.” For more than 40 years, the Fortune Society has been developing model programs that help formerly incarcerated men and women successfully re-enter their communities.

This year, Councilmembers Daniel Dromm and Robert Jackson proved to be the Fortune Society’s strongest supporters in the City Council. Dromm sponsored $7,000 in discretionary funding for Fortune Society’s operations and he and Jackson were the primary sponsors of a $100,000 capital funding request.

“The work of the Fortune Society is vitally important because they offer individuals the opportunity to rehabilitate themselves and make positive contributions once they re-enter our society.” Dromm said. “I am proud to continue to support Fortune in their mission to ensure successful re-entry from prison and promote alternative incarceration programs.”

Dromm made the announcement on January 12 after touring the Fortune Society’s Castle Gardens Residence in West Harlem, a building complex that promotes safe and sober socialization for clients who strive to successfully reintegrate into society and for hard-working families with limited income.

The $100,000 in capital funding will make possible the purchase of two vans, a much-needed service enhancement for the building’s residents beyond Fortune’s existing but insufficient transportation options. The vans they currently operate are either overused, in need of repair, or in the shop. Having two additional vehicles, including one specifically designed for wheelchair bound residents, will be extremely helpful for years to come.

“I am always happy to support an organization that gives true meaning to the term second chances,” Jackson said. “Fortune Society continues to serve as a model for helping individuals turn their lives around. They know how to build partnerships, how to inspire others to embrace one another and they have the best track record of promoting hope in their communities.”

The $7,000 in discretionary funds will be used to support the work of the Associate Vice President of Programs in planning, development and oversight of the Fortune Society’s Education and Employment Services programs.

The Fortune Society offers a holistic and integrated “one-stop-shopping” model of service provision. Among the services offered are supportive housing, career development, job retention, substance abuse treatment, alternatives to incarceration, HIV/AIDS services, education, family services and drop-in services as well as ongoing access to aftercare. For more information, visit www.fortunesociety.org.