Empowering Ex-Cons
Helping ex-cons find jobs, education, and the support they need.
About Founder
Carmen Jordan
Founder, VIN HOME Transitional Housing
The Foundation
Born and raised in Chicago’s Robert Taylor Homes, Carmen Jordan’s early life was shaped by the complexities of an underserved community. Growing up amidst gangs and systemic instability, she witnessed firsthand the heavy toll of limited opportunity on families and young women.
The Turning Point
As a young adult, Carmen’s own life became a reflection of those struggles. Her involvement with drugs eventually led to incarceration—a period that served as both her lowest point and her greatest catalyst for change. While incarcerated, Carmen committed to "the inner work," utilizing counseling and prayer to break cycles of addiction and trauma.
The Mission
Upon her release, Carmen transformed her lived experience into a mission. She founded VIN HOME Transitional Housing to provide a safe, structured environment for women navigating the barriers of reentry and recovery. Today, Carmen leads with authenticity and empathy, proving that a past of hardship can be rewritten into a future of purpose.
About Us
Stable and supportive housing assistance
Job readiness training and employment placement support
Educational assistance, including GED, vocational training, and certifications
Life-skills development for successful community reentry
Mentorship and peer support programs
Mental health and wellness referrals
Assistance with obtaining identification and essential documents
Financial literacy and budgeting education
Connections to community resources and supportive services
Ongoing support to promote independence and reduce recidivism
Our organization connects formerly incarcerated individuals with meaningful job opportunities and educational assistance to support successful reentry and long-term stability. We provide job readiness training, resume and interview support, career counseling, and connections to second-chance employers. Participants also receive guidance with GED completion, vocational training, certifications, and college enrollment, along with ongoing mentorship and supportive services designed to remove barriers, build skills, and create pathways to sustainable employment and independence.
Support
Opportunities
