The Fortune Society
Overview
The Fortune Society is a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the successful reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals into society. Established in 1967 and headquartered in Long Island City, New York, the organization was founded by David Rothenberg. The Fortune Society offers a range of services focusing on reentry, advocacy, and education, aimed at transforming lives and preventing recidivism. Over the years, the organization has grown significantly, raising funds through various grants and donations, and expanding its range of programs to support its participants more effectively.
Recent Developments
- April 2025: The Fortune Society hosted its Fourth Annual Technology Fair at John Jay College’s Institute for Justice and Opportunity. The event featured presentations, demos, and networking opportunities for participants interested in technology careers.
- January 2025: Implementation of the Fair Chance for Housing Act, passed in 2024, became active, prohibiting housing discrimination based on conviction records.
- November 2024 - March 2025: "Future Freedoms" exhibition was held in collaboration with MoMA PS1, showcasing creative works by formerly incarcerated individuals, reflecting on the impacts and possibilities of post-incarceration life.
- 2024: The Clean Slate Act was enforced, allowing for the automatic sealing of certain criminal records to help individuals restart their lives without the stigma of past convictions.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 1967 |
| Headquarters | Long Island City, NY, USA |
| Founders | David Rothenberg |
| Key Services | Reentry, Advocacy, Education |
| Number of Employees | N/A |
| Industry | Non-Profit, Social Services |
Early History
The Fortune Society was founded in 1967 by David Rothenberg shortly after producing a play titled "Fortune and Men's Eyes," which highlighted the brutal realities of prison life. Inspired by the narratives of individuals who had experienced incarceration, Rothenberg established the organization to advocate for the rights and fair treatment of former prisoners. Initially operating with limited resources, the Fortune Society began offering counseling and employment services to help individuals transition back into society. These foundational services laid the groundwork for the organization's comprehensive support model.
Company Profile and Achievements
The Fortune Society operates on a holistic model that covers various aspects of reentry for formerly incarcerated individuals, including housing, employment, mental health counseling, and education.
- Major Achievements:
- Successful advocacy for the Fair Chance for Housing Act and the Clean Slate Act, both of which significantly influence the lives of justice-involved individuals.
- Collaborations with esteemed institutions for art exhibitions like "Future Freedoms," which help spread awareness and encourage public engagement with issues of incarceration and reentry.
- A robust policy advocacy program headed by the David Rothenberg Center for Public Policy, focusing on legislation that supports justice reform and decarceration.
Current Operations and Market Position
The Fortune Society is a leader in providing reentry services and advocacy. Its programs continuously attract federal and state funding, philanthropic donations, and collaborations with other non-profits and educational institutions. The organization is recognized for its influence in criminal justice reform in New York City and broader policy changes at state and national levels.
Conclusion
The Fortune Society plays a pivotal role in shaping the discourse and policy on incarceration and reentry in the United States. Through its comprehensive services and strong advocacy efforts, the organization addresses systemic challenges in the justice system and supports the reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals as thriving members of society. The Fortune Society continues to adapt and expand its initiatives, aiming towards a transformative societal impact amid evolving legal and social landscapes.