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Community members standing together showing the BACC I AM shirt

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Supportingsecond chances.Strengthening communities.

BACC provides resources to returning citizens to prevent recidivism, and walks alongside at-risk youth with mentorship, education, and a path forward.

At-Risk YouthBreaking CyclesCreating OpportunityStronger CommunitiesReturning CitizensRestorative JusticeMentorshipHealingAwarenessActionAt-Risk YouthBreaking CyclesCreating OpportunityStronger CommunitiesReturning CitizensRestorative JusticeMentorshipHealingAwarenessAction

Our Origin

Born from
experience.
Built with
purpose.

BACC was founded on the principles of restorative justice — born from a desire to create real community, accountability, healing, and opportunity. Our founder began developing this vision while incarcerated, understanding firsthand the barriers that prevent successful reintegration.

That understanding became a calling. The mission began with recognizing the harm caused by past decisions and finding ways to pay it forward through service, mentorship, education, and community support.

Since 2017, BACC has developed curriculum, programming, and resources focused on helping returning citizens reintegrate while also providing guidance and opportunities for at-risk youth throughout Massachusetts.

2017
Founding Year — Massachusetts
  • Rooted in restorative justice
  • Community-built from within
  • Accountability & healing at core
  • Education, mentorship & support
  • Statewide impact, Massachusetts
Mission

Provide resources to returning citizens to prevent recidivism and promote long-term success.

Vision

Stronger communities, built by empowering returning citizens and at-risk youth.

Services & Programs

What we do, every week.

Each program is a door. Together they build a path from reentry to long-term success.

Coming home, fully supported.

Reentry Support

Coming home, fully supported.

One-on-one navigation through the systems that decide whether a person stays free, housed, and employed.

  • Employment assistance & job placement
  • Resume help & interview prep
  • Housing resource referrals
  • Reintegration planning
Reaching young people first.

Youth Development

Reaching young people first.

Mentorship, leadership development, and alternative pathways for youth at risk of gang involvement or violence.

  • Violence prevention
  • Positive decision-making
  • Leadership development
  • Alternative pathways to success
Real people. Real support.

Mentorship & Community

Real people. Real support.

Peer mentorship and community leadership — led by people who have walked this road and come out building something new.

  • One-on-one mentorship
  • Peer support circles
  • Community leadership development
  • Family reconnection
Mental Health Support

Access to mental health resources, wellness support, and community healing.

Housing Assistance

Referrals, support networks, and reintegration planning for stable housing.

ID & Documentation

Help securing state IDs, vital records, and required documentation.

Education & Certification

Pathways to certifications, education, and long-term professional growth.

Community Impact

Measured in lives, not metrics.

BACC has helped over 100 individuals access resources, mentorship, certification opportunities, and the support services that change long-term outcomes.

Recognized by the Massachusetts Department of Youth Services for contributions to restorative justice and community impact.

100+
Individuals served
2017
Founded
Weekly
Wellness & success Zoom
MA DYS
Award recognition

Success Stories

In their own words.

Photo of Corie Stokes
"My name is Corie Stokes, but everyone calls me Stokey Love. I got involved with BACC through a great friend who kept his word — helping me with resources and putting the word out during our Zoom chats to connect me with direct assistance. I work 10-hour days, six days a week, and I've learned that if you're willing to give yourself a chance, you have to build community. Everything else begins to fall into place because the people around you will support you and hold you accountable."
Corie Stokes
Known as Stokey Love · Boston, MA
Photo of Darrell Darby
"During my parole hearing, the board acknowledged that I had taken the initiative to begin programming early. I worked hard to get my life on the right track, and Bringing Awareness Creates Community supported me throughout that journey of growth. BACC consistently offered guidance, encouragement, and assistance whenever I needed it. Even today, the organization's door remains open when I need counsel or direction. I am grateful for the role BACC has played in my journey, and I am proud to see the meaningful work it continues to do in the community."
Darrell Darby
Program participant
"Bringing Awareness Creates Community (BACC) has always provided me with an open door. During difficult times, I found support, direction, and a genuine sense of connection through the organization. BACC also connected me with Everyday Boston, an experience that helped me become a stronger communicator and gave me the skills to engage more meaningfully with my community. Whenever I have needed guidance or encouragement, BACC has been there for me. I am truly grateful for an organization that refuses to give up on people and remains committed to making a lasting difference in their lives."
Antwan Burton
Returning citizen

Community Outreach

Weekly Success & Wellness Zoom.

Every Wednesday, 6:00–7:30 PM ET. Featuring state representatives, reform leaders, district attorneys, mental-health professionals, and the voices of returning citizens themselves.

Join the Zoom →
Each Week
Mental health support
Each Week
Networking opportunities
Each Week
Professional development
Each Week
Community connections
Each Week
Returning citizen voices
Each Week
Pathways to success
Partners
CrossRoads+ growing across Massachusetts
BACC I AM logo

The Mark · I AM

Two hands. One mind.
A community blooming.

The flower represents growth, healing, and transformation. The hands represent guidance, protection, and community support. The face represents the individual being restored and empowered.

Together, the mark stands for restorative justice, second chances, and personal growth. We wear it because we mean it: Bringing Awareness. Creating Community.

BACC members wearing I AM front and Bringing Awareness Creating Community back shirts

Front: I AM · Back: Bringing Awareness, Creating Community

In Motion

See BACC in action

Get In Touch

We're here
to help.

Whether you're seeking support, want to refer someone, or are interested in partnering with BACC — reach out. We're ready to connect.

Send a message

Need support, have a question, or want to refer someone? We'll respond promptly.

Stand With BACC

Help Turn Second Chances Into New Beginnings.

Your contribution supports mentorship, resources, education, and a community that continues showing up.

Donate $20 or more and receive a complimentary BACC "I AM" shirt.