Episode 6: Overcoming the Odds
If you're on the lookout for real stories of transformation and hope, the latest episode of the DCMKE podcast is a must-listen. In Episode 6, fittingly titled "Overcoming the Odds," host Jason sits down with leaders from two of Milwaukee's most impactful reentry organizations — Project Return and Partners in Hope.
What’s This Episode About?
Jason kicks off the conversation by welcoming three dedicated community leaders: Andre Brown of Project Return, Frank Pinniger of Partners in Hope (Community Warehouse), and Franklin Coleman, the Job & Career Navigator at Community Warehouse.
Together, they peel back the curtain on what it really means to support people returning home from incarceration — and challenge many stigmas about reentry in Milwaukee.
Meet the Guests and Their Missions
Andre Brown, Project Return: Andre Brown shares about Project Return’s 46-year legacy helping formerly incarcerated individuals establish a new, meaningful life. Their focus? Livelihood resources: employment, housing, clothing, and behavioral support. What sets Andre apart is that he’s walked the walk — once a returning citizen himself, he brings lived experience and humility to his work.
Frank Pinniger & Franklin Coleman, Partners in Hope (Community Warehouse): Frank Pinniger, a returning citizen after 26 years of incarceration, now leads Partners in Hope. Their faith-based nonprofit provides everything from ID recovery and housing to food pantry services, and supports people for a lifetime. Franklin Coleman navigates job opportunities for members, emphasizing the importance of second chances — he's even paired up as a mentee with a lieutenant of the Milwaukee Police Department!
Breaking Down Barriers
A recurring theme throughout the episode is barriers — both personal and systemic. Imagine coming home after decades away, only to find you can’t navigate a smartphone or even figure out the bus routes. Frank Pinniger recounts the emotional and practical hurdles he faced, from the overwhelming feeling of freedom to struggling with simple technology.
Andre Brown and Franklin Coleman echo these sentiments, emphasizing that reentry services have to offer more than just job leads; psychological support, mentorship, and family-like networks make all the difference.
Hope, Second Chances, and Changing the Narrative
Perhaps the most powerful takeaway is the unity and optimism these leaders exude. They are proof that with the right support, people can – and do – change. The episode is brimming with stories of people becoming managers, leaders, and mentors after returning from prison, and shaking hands with those who once represented the other side of the law.
The guests are adamant: Milwaukee has real treasures when it comes to social services. And even those who make mistakes are always welcomed back into the fold, without judgment.
How to Get Help or Get Involved
It’s inspiring to hear Andre Brown and Frank Pinniger share their contact information, inviting anyone who needs resources or wants to help to reach out:
Project Return: 1004 N. 10th Street, 2nd Floor; Call 414-374-8029 or email andre@projectreturnmilwaukee.org
Partners in Hope (Community Warehouse): 324 W. North Avenue; Call 414-331-8483