Venture:
GPS-RC (Guiding Principles to Success for Returning Citizens)
Founders:
Tony Windley and Robert Lebron
Industry:
Financial literacy, reentry education technology, workforce development
Venture Type:
Nonprofit
What is the social or environmental issue being addressed?
Formerly incarcerated individuals often face significant financial challenges, which are closely linked to recidivism. By learning how to manage money, budget effectively, and build credit, they can increase their chances of securing employment and stable housing thereby reducing the likelihood of returning to crime.
Innovation:
GPS-RC (Guiding Principles to Success for Returning Citizens) is an innovative program that harnesses the power of video games and virtual reality (VR) to teach financial empowerment skills to formerly incarcerated Latin and African American adults from New York City, ages 25-45. The program provides an immersive, hands-on learning experience that transforms financial habits by increasing awareness and knowledge in money management, investing, and credit-building.
The GPS-RC program empowers participants to take control of their financial future, helping them break free from bad spending habits and build the skills necessary for lifelong success. Guided by a commitment to justice and equality, the program offers a safe, engaging space to practice essential financial skills, restoring dignity and confidence to those rebuilding their lives.