Magazine

From Felon to Friend: The App Revolutionizing Job and Housing Opportunities

Braden, a former job seeker with a record, created "Friend a Felon" in 2021, an app aimed at aiding previously incarcerated individuals in securing employment and housing without discrimination. His initiative emerged after extensive research on companies and a crash-course in app development. Despite initial hurdles in sales, Braden's app now supports over 13,400 ex-offenders, offering resources and opportunities. While some find the term "Felon" offensive, Braden's focus remains on empowering those in need of a fresh start.

Staff Editor May 27, 2024

Braden’s journey from job rejections to a revolutionary app is nothing short of inspiring. Faced with closed doors due to his record, Braden took matters into his own hands and created Friend a Felon, an ingenious app designed to assist formerly incarcerated individuals in finding employment and housing opportunities in inclusive communities. The innovative solution not only offers a lifeline to those seeking a fresh start but also challenges societal norms by promoting second chances.

Cleveland emerges as a beacon of hope in the realm of reintegration efforts for ex-offenders, with Braden’s app serving as a testament to the city’s commitment to leveling the playing field. The collaborative initiatives aimed at enhancing opportunities for individuals with criminal backgrounds underscore a progressive mindset that values rehabilitation and reintegration over stigmatization and exclusion.

Braden’s decision to delve into app development stemmed from his own struggles post-incarceration. Armed with a natural aptitude for technology, he embarked on a self-taught journey to create a platform that would bridge the gap between employers and ex-offenders. His meticulous research into thousands of companies laid the foundation for Friend a Felon, showcasing his dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

The evolution of Braden’s app reflects not only his technical prowess but also his adaptability in the face of entrepreneurial challenges. Transitioning from a nonprofit to a for-profit model, he navigated unfamiliar terrain with resilience and determination. By implementing a tiered pricing structure based on company size, Braden ensured scalability while remaining true to his mission of fostering inclusivity and empowerment.

With thousands of formerly incarcerated individuals benefitting from Friend a Felon’s resources, Braden’s commitment to driving change is palpable. The app’s success in connecting individuals with essential services like employment, housing, and financial aid underscores its pivotal role in reshaping societal perceptions and dismantling barriers to reentry. Despite encountering resistance to the term “Felon,” Braden remains steadfast in his pursuit of justice and equality for all, setting a shining example for advocates and innovators alike.