ABOUT FIRST STEP ALLIANCE
Our Story
Coming home is an opportunity for a fresh start. But for many people, financial barriers make that transition harder. Limited access to affordable banking and damaged credit history can turn something as simple as cashing a paycheck into a costly obstacle.
First Step Alliance was founded by financial services professionals and community leaders who understand how these challenges can stand between people and a stable future.
Our Fresh Start programs offer personal finance and business education led by financial coaches and peer mentors with lived experience. Participants can also access banking support and may be eligible to apply for a small-dollar loan. Through these programs and our community partnerships, we help people build the knowledge and confidence to work toward financial independence and successful reentry.
You've done your time. You deserve more than just a fighting chance.
A fresh start deserves a fair financial chance.
Our Mission
To create pathways to financial empowerment and successful reentry for justice-involved individuals through financial education, entrepreneurship training, peer mentoring, and access to affordable banking services.
Our Vision
A future that transforms financial access for justice-involved individuals through our community loan program and groundbreaking new credit union, advancing financial security and economic independence.
Our Values
Inclusion
We open the doors to opportunity for those who have long been shut out of the financial system, helping them pursue a secure future.
Acceptance
We recognize each person's potential and their ability to shape their own future, without judgment about their circumstances or past.
Fairness
We advocate for fair treatment and equitable access to the financial services and support people need to work toward financial independence.
Trust
Our relationships are grounded in mutual respect, compassion, and shared experience. We value the perspectives each person brings.
Transparency
Open communication, active listening, honest dialogue, and accountability to our community guide our work.
