In September 2016 when Bernard Mills was released from prison, he headed for Culpeper, Virginia to be near family, but soon found himself homeless and unemployed. Through the homeless community, Bernard learned about Workforce personnel, who introduced him to People Incorporated, where he secured employment through ex-offender services.

While he stayed at the Culpeper Winter Heat Shelter, Bernard worked as a volunteer, received food, washed his clothes, showered and was able to sleep in a warm bed.

In March 2018, People Incorporated enrolled him in Permanent Supportive Housing services, which provided him his own place to live.

Today, Bernard is the Corrections Chair for Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous, and volunteers his time to the 24-Hour Emergency Hot Line, and the Arm & Arm Re-entry Program. He is also the Sergeant At Arms in the Warrenton, Virginia Toastmaster’s Club, and aspires to be a Motivational Speaker as his way of paying it forward.

Because of People Incorporated and community partners in Culpeper, Bernard has achieved stability and is on the path to success.