
OurJourney Essential Services
professional . personal . profound
Available for any returning citizen in North Carolina

Getting out of prison is just the beginning. Rebuilding your life requires hard work, perseverance and the spirit of a champion. It's never easy, but OurJourney believes that the same inner strength that got you through prison can lead you past the challenges of freedom down the path to self-sufficiency. We also believe that sometimes even the strongest among us just need a little help getting started.
​
OurJourney's Essential Services program provides professional, personal and profound assistance to any returning citizen in North Carolina who wants to gain the tools and skills necessary to rebuild a life after incarceration.


James Silva
Director of Essential Services
OurJourney's Director of Essential Services James Silva served 20 years in prison in Massachusetts. He received his Bacherlor's Degree from Boston University and has volunteered for Prison Fellowship Ministries for over two decades since his release in 1998. He and his wife moved to Mt. Airy, NC in 2022, where they live with their two cats.
​
James has a passion for helping people impacted by the criminal legal system, both those who are still behind the razor wires and those who have rejoined us in freedom.
​
If you have returned from a North Carolina prison and would like James's one-on-one help with any (or all) of the Essential Services listed below, please sign up for the Essential Services program by filling out the form at the bottom of this page, and Leonard will reach out to you within two days.
​
The OurJourney Essential Services program - one more way we're helping you get your Best Chance at your Best Life.

Writing a Resume
A professional resume can help you land a job

Job Interview Prep
Learn tips for how to present yourself and your talents

Medication Help
We'll help you enroll to receive free prescription medication

Budgeting Skills
Earning money isn't any good if you can't budget it

Handling Stress
Learn tips for dealing with stress, depression and rejection

Computer Skills
Learn the basics of computer and smartphone operation

Nutrition Skills
Learn healthy habits that give you a zeal and zest for life

Relationship Skills
Learn how to build relationships last last and add joy

Dress for Success
Learn how to make the right fashion decisions

Free Insurance Registration
A good insurance plan will help you secure your future