Program Overview

ASCEND Restore is designed to support individuals rebuilding their lives after incarceration by connecting them to mentorship, professional development, and career pathway exposure.

Many returning citizens face barriers to accessing professional networks and guidance that can support long-term career mobility. ASCEND Restore helps bridge this gap by connecting participants with mentors and professionals who provide insight, encouragement, and real-world career perspective.

Through this support structure, participants build the confidence, knowledge, and relationships needed to pursue sustainable professional opportunities.

Who ASCEND Restore Serves

ASCEND Restore serves individuals who are transitioning from incarceration and seeking to build stable career pathways. Participants may include individuals who:

Are returning to their communities after incarceration

Are enrolled in reentry or workforce development programs

Are seeking mentorship and professional guidance

Want to develop the skills and relationships necessary for long-term career mobility

ASCEND Restore focuses on supporting participants as they rebuild professional identity, confidence, and access to opportunity networks.

Participants in ASCEND Restore receive structured support designed to help them navigate professional environments and pursue meaningful career pathways.

Mentorship

Participants are paired with mentors from BDN’s national network of scholars and professionals who provide encouragement, career insight, and professional guidance.

Professional Development

Participants engage in sessions focused on communication skills, leadership development, workplace readiness, and professional identity.

Career Navigation

Participants receive guidance exploring career pathways, understanding professional environments, and identifying long-term career goals.

Opportunity Exposure

Participants gain exposure to industries, employers, and professional networks that can support long-term career advancement.

Program Outcomes

ASCEND Restore aims to support participants as they move toward stable career pathways and long-term economic mobility.Through mentorship, professional development, and career exploration, participants strengthen the skills, confidence, and networks needed to pursue professional opportunities.

By connecting participants with experienced scholars and professionals, ASCEND Restore helps expand access to the kinds of relationships and guidance that often shape long-term career success.

ASCEND Restore applies the ASCEND framework to support individuals navigating reentry and career mobility. Participants move through the program by engaging with mentors, strengthening professional skills, and exploring career pathways that support long-term opportunity.

Engagement

Participants build mentorship relationships that encourage persistence and growth.

Navigation

Participants receive guidance navigating professional pathways and career decisions.

Development

Participants strengthen leadership skills, communication abilities, and workplace readiness.

Opportunity

Participants gain exposure to employers, industries, and professional networks.

Mobility

Participants pursue stable career pathways and long-term economic advancement.

The ASCEND Restore

Career Mobility for Returning Citizens

5,000+

20+

150+

10+