Positive People: Defy Colorado

Defy Colorado inspires incarcerated individuals into confident entrepreneurs.

Listen to the interview below: 

America jails more of its citizens than any other country in the world. More than 2 million citizens are behind bars. High incarceration rates deprive the nation of potentially productive talent and it drains the life force from people in prison and their families. In the state of Colorado, over 50% of those released from jail are rearrested within the next two years.

Many individuals released from prison return to prison because they lack the skills to function in society. Incarceration does not always allow the opportunity for people to learn employable skills, certifications, social skills, or relationship skills.

While in prison, many incarcerated individuals lose opportunities to earn and support their families. Studies show that children with incarcerated parents are 70% more likely to become incarcerated themselves.

Stacey Putka, the Executive Director, and Jason Mendelson a member of the board at Defy Colorado, a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, share how they are introducing entrepreneurship education, mentoring, and inspiration to give incarcerated individuals a fresh start when they leave prison.

The Positive People show is about presenting inspirational role models who share positivity, tools, and resources that our community can use right now, right away. This show will uplift you to know how Defy Colorado is investing in the invisible members of our society to give them a second chance for a start afresh. Bravo!

Stacey Putka, the Executive Director for Defy Ventures can be reached by email: [email protected]

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