#USA #Los Angeles #Aventiv Technologies #Mission Launch #Reentry Solutions

Launching New Horizons: Aventiv and Mission Launch's Collaborative Initiative

In a groundbreaking effort, Aventiv Technologies and Mission Launch recently convened stakeholders at the 2025 Bank on 100 Million Hackathon, held in Los Angeles. This innovative gathering aimed to tackle the urgent challenges faced by individuals reentering society after incarceration. With more than 40,000 individuals released from California state prisons each year, the need for effective, community-driven solutions is more critical than ever.

The Hackathon served as a platform for justice-impacted leaders, community partners, and technology experts to unite in creating actionable strategies rooted in lived experiences. "What we experienced was more than just a theoretical discussion; it was real problem-solving," commented Teresa Hodge, CEO of Mission Launch and Chair of the Aventiv Advisory Board. Hodge emphasized that engaging those directly impacted by the justice system in the design of tools for employment, housing, and stability leads to stronger and more effective outcomes.

Core Solution Areas Emerged

The event featured a series of roundtable discussions, brainstorming sessions, and collaborative workshops. The participants identified several key areas where innovative tools could significantly enhance reentry efforts:

1. Wellness and Life-Skills Learning: Initiatives supported by the Anti-Recidivism Coalition aimed to expand tablet-based content that fosters mental wellness, communication, and conflict resolution skills—elements essential for successful reintegration into society.

2. Improved Access to Education: Organizations such as Dress for Success contributed insights into creating flexible educational formats, including audio and video resources tailored to diverse literacy needs, thus enhancing accessibility for all participants.

3. Reentry Navigation and Resource Support: Detailed discussions led to the potential introduction of a reentry module on Aventiv tablets. This would encompass educational materials, success stories, and local resource directories to assist individuals in their transition.

4. Career Readiness and Pathways: Participants collaborated with forestry and wildfire partners to develop tablet tools that support career planning, résumé building, and pathways aligned with California’s job market.

Engaging Conversations and Personal Testimonies

The Hackathon was not just about discussions; it also included engaging fireside chats, where leaders like Jane Oates, a workforce expert and member of Aventiv's Advisory Board, spoke about the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence in creating scalable learning opportunities for incarcerated individuals.

Moreover, a community-centered listening session held by Aventiv allowed formerly incarcerated individuals and their families to share their experiences, challenges, and hopes. This initiative emphasized Aventiv's commitment to fostering a judgment-free environment where voices can be heard and valued.

Margita Thompson, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Aventiv Technologies, reiterated the importance of these listening sessions: "Hearing directly from justice-impacted individuals helps us understand what matters most, ensuring we design technology that meets the needs of California's workforce and enhances the reentry journey."

Moving Forward: A Roadmap for Change

As a result of the Hackathon, Mission Launch and its partners are now focused on shaping these innovative ideas into a comprehensive reentry innovation roadmap. This roadmap will prioritize viable solutions to be implemented in communities across California, aiming for real-world impact and success.

For those interested in the outcomes and future events of the Hackathon, additional information can be found on Mission Launch's official website.

About Aventiv Technologies

Based in Plano, Texas, Aventiv Technologies is a leader in providing innovative technological solutions that enhance connectivity for correctional facilities and individuals behind bars. With trusted brands like Securus Technologies and JPay, Aventiv is committed to creating meaningful connections and improving community outcomes.

About Mission Launch

Headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, Mission Launch advocates for individuals with arrest or conviction records, striving to support their economic stability through various initiatives. By building cross-sector coalitions and offering innovative programs, Mission Launch has been at the forefront of transforming the reentry landscape for over a decade.