Working Against Recidivism & Poverty

“North Carolina families deserve a true fair chance. NC WARP — Working Against Recidivism & Poverty — is a community-led nonprofit serving justice-impacted individuals and their families across Gaston County and beyond. We combine lived experience with trauma-informed, research-based tools to break the cycles of reincarceration and poverty — for good.”
— Built by people with lived experience. Driven by resilience

Join Our Mission

A Hub for Stability and Success

What began as a personal journey has evolved into a mission to strengthen families nationwide. We provide a bridge to the resources that matter most—from national advocacy to local grassroots support. Each month, we highlight a local organization doing the work on the ground here in Gastonia. Featured Local Resource: Bountiful Blessings Food Pantry The Mission: Ensuring local families have access to quality, fresh food.

Our Mission

WARP advocates for those struggling to balance the reality of rebuilding a family while reentering society. We understand the nuances and stigmas of lived experience. We move beyond support to co-create solutions that ensure a true fair chance.

Together We Can Make a Difference

At Working Against Recidivism & Poverty, we believe that sustainable change happens when communities, organizations, and government agencies work together. Our approach focuses on building resilience and reducing harm with trauma-informed, research-based tools and strategies.

By collaborating with community partners, we create comprehensive support networks that empower the historically underserved to build stable, productive lives.

Our Partners

Our Programs

Comprehensive support through collaborative initiatives

Cutting-Edge Skills for Your Next Chapter

Traditional job searching doesn't always tell the whole story of what you’re capable of. We offer AI training designed to give you an edge in today’s market. From automating tasks to mastering new software, our workshops empower you to use AI as a personal assistant for your professional success.

Housing Assistance

Collaborative program with housing authorities and landlords to secure stable housing for those reentering society.

Harm Reduction Awareness

Providing education and outreach on harm reduction practices to improve health and safety in our communities.

Building Resilience with a foundation in research

Helping justice-impacted families build resilience through trauma-informed and research based tools and strategies.

Strategic Partnerships

Collaboration is at the heart of our approach

Business Partners

Local employers who support Fair Chance hiring practices.

Educational Institutions

Colleges and training centers offering specialized programs for returning citizens.

Community Organizations

Non-profits and community groups that provide resources and support services.

Government Agencies

State and local agencies working to reform systems and provide support.

Critical Statistics

Transportation, overdose risk, substance use, and suicide — facts that shape our work

63%

Employers Require Transportation

Of employers in NC consider reliable transportation a "must-have" for employment, creating an immediate barrier to reentry.

40% Higher

Risk of Fatal Overdose

Returning citizens face a 40% higher risk of fatal overdose in the first two weeks after release, highlighting the critical need for immediate harm reduction support.

70%

Substance Use Disorder

Of justice-involved individuals in NC report having a substance use disorder, yet fewer than 10% receive adequate treatment in the community.

5x Higher

Suicide Rate

Families of those impacted by the judicial system are disproportionately affected by suicide at an alarming rate, underscoring the profound mental health crisis we address.

Join Our Collaborative Network

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN: 39-4239364), your partnership and support are tax-deductible.

Whether you're an employer, service provider, community leader, or concerned citizen, there's a place for you in our partnership network.

Become a Partner