LIFE Progressive Services (LPS) Group provides re-entry services for formerly incarcerated people and is engaged in advocacy on issues affecting citizens returning to society. The services available at LPS include assistance with securing Identification post-release, skill set development, basic computer skills, job readiness, mock interviewing, OSHA safety training, employment referrals, and referrals to community base service providers for participants who need mental health treatment. Donated clothing for interviews is also distributed to participants in need. We have also included as part of prevention mechanism a food pantry. GREEN THINKING! is our theme. Everything that is healthy and healing to families, the community and our environment is considered Green Thinking. LIFE Progressive Services Group is registered as a New York State Approved Food Pantry. By providing food we wish to lessen the pressure on the parolee while helping to provide education on the connection between healthy eating and a healthy mind.
LIFE Progressive Services Staff
Ken Bright, Founder and Executive Director. Mr. Bright founded LIFE Progressive Services in 2009 as a not-for-profit Re-Entry and Transitional program for citizens returning to society. He is an active advocate for formerly incarcerated men and women, participating in New York State’s Legislative Lobby day and has been a featured speaker on the Harlem 411 Radio Show. He has assisted the City of Mount Vernon, NY working with the Peace Keepers Organization and with the Boys & Girls Club’s Passport to Manhood program. His work has earned citations from the New York State Assembly Standing Committee on Correction and the City of Mount Vernon was recognized by has been cited on numerous occasions for his contributions. Mr. Bright served 20 years on charges related to burglary and drug sales; he was released in 2001. While incarcerated he earned his GED, studied financial services and received a certification in Wall Street Trading Services. After his release, he used this certification in a career with financial and law firms.
Austin Stephens Jr., MSW, CCJS: AVP, Anti-Violence Program, Conflict Resolution Facilitator and Anger Management Specialist. Mr. Stephens has over twenty years of service in criminal justice with New York State Department of Correctional Services and at Riker’s Island Health Services. He is passionate about helping people of color who have been directly affected by the justice system changes their lives for the better.
David Norman, Community Relations Facilitator and Mentor. Mr. Norman holds certifications in a number of community counseling services including a New York State Department of Labor Counseling Aide Certification. He was awarded a fellowship by the Columbia University School of Social Justice and is an advisory board member of the Mailman School of Publish Health at Columbia University where he is a classroom panelist. Mr. Norman is also a mentor in the Coming Home Program at Riverside Church.
Leontyne Brown, Volunteer Coordinator and Office Assistant. Ms. Brown works with volunteers and coordinates food pantry operations, acting as a liaison for deliveries and distribution. She works directly with the community to ensure efficient operation of the pantry and the LIFE Progressive Services Mount Vernon offices.