WHO WE ARE.
The Mississippi Center for Reentry (MS Reentry) is a nonprofit organization based in Desoto County, Mississippi with a mission to empower recently released non-violent Desoto County residents to reshape their futures. MS Reentry offers a range of services, including life skills training, employment support, mentorship programs, and mental health resources.
MEET OUR FOUNDER -
CYNETRA FREEMAN.
Cynetra was convicted in 2010 for manufacturing and delivering a controlled substance. During her incarceration, she not only fought her case with the help of her public defender but also lost her job, home, car, and personal belongings due to the extended time she spent behind bars. Once her case was resolved and she was released from jail, Cynetra quickly realized the critical need for post-release services beyond basic probation support to help individuals like herself rebuild their lives.
After a year of struggle, Cynetra managed to reestablish herself in her community. During this time, she began researching nonprofit organizations and reentry services, driven by a desire to give back and help others facing similar challenges. However, in 2012, her health took a serious turn when she was diagnosed with Chronic End-Stage Renal Kidney Disease, requiring dialysis. Faced with this new reality, she put her dream of starting a nonprofit on hold to focus on her health.
As her condition worsened, Cynetra made the difficult decision to move back to Mississippi to live with her mother and stepfather. There, she regained her health and strength, refocusing on her original vision: to create a nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals impacted by incarceration successfully reenter society.
In her research, Cynetra was surprised to find that there were no nonprofits in northwest Mississippi offering reentry services. Motivated by the gap in services, she took action. On April 24, 2017, she filed the necessary paperwork with the Mississippi Secretary of State to officially form the Mississippi Center for Reentry, which became a recognized 501(c)(3) organization by the IRS on June 3, 2017.
Since its founding, Cynetra has built a Board of Directors, evaluated successful reentry programs in other states, and developed a strategic plan to implement services in Mississippi. She has also secured initial funding to support the Center’s mission.
Cynetra's personal experience with the challenges of reintegration, combined with her creativity and compassion, makes her a powerful advocate for individuals transitioning out of incarceration. She is committed to supporting formerly incarcerated individuals, strengthening families during and after incarceration, promoting successful reentry, and ultimately improving community safety.
OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
Angela Dawson
Jobs That Move America
Erica Dumas
Reentry Consultant
Jeannine Johnston
Goodwill Industries
Sheria Mims
Women+ in Technology Mississippi