Richmond proclaims April as National Second Chance Month, honors local reentry groups

The Richmond City Council on Monday proclaimed April 2025 as National Second Chance Month and recognized a coalition of local reentry organizations for their work supporting people returning from incarceration.

Mayor Eduardo Martinez read a proclamation recognizing local groups including the Reentry Success Center, Rubicon Programs, Safe Return Project, 100 Years Enterprise, Men and Women of Valor and A Place to Call Home. Members of those organizations accepted certificates and told the council about services ranging from employment support and housing navigation to mentoring and fair‑chance hiring.

The nut graf: The proclamation is ceremonial but intended to elevate community reentry providers and call attention to barriers faced by people with criminal records. Council members and community leaders said the month is an opportunity to coordinate city support and encourage local employers to remove barriers to hiring.

Speakers from honored groups described their work. Pedro, a credible messenger organizer with Safe Return Project, said: “Reentry is about more than just returning from home. It's about rebuilding lives, restoring dignity, and creating opportunities for success.” John Cunningham Jr., site manager for Rubicon Programs in Richmond, highlighted Rubicon’s local hiring and wraparound services. Representatives from 100 Years Enterprise spoke about mentoring and employment support for long‑term incarcerated persons returning to Richmond.

Council members applauded the organizations and invited honorees to the dais for photos and brief remarks. Several attendees urged the council to continue funding and supporting community‑based reentry services.

There was no council vote required for this ceremonial proclamation; the council and the groups marked the occasion with brief remarks and public recognition.