Restoring Hope: Sophia Jackson's Mission in Reentry Support

Sophia at a Second Chance Graduation Ceremony.

Growing up in South Phoenix, Sophia Jackson always felt drawn to “people and things that appeared to be discarded or disregarded or just in need of feeling seen.” That instinct to care, paired with a fierce sense of justice, led her to study criminal justice and eventually become an Employment Counselor with the Reentry Second Chance Program at Piestewa unit at Perryville Prison. The Second Chance Program was created through a partnership with the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) and the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation, and Reentry (ADCRR). This program brings comprehensive support services to individuals who are incarcerated or on parole to provide them with a real second chance to achieve success within their communities after release from prison.

Sophia’s compassion has always extended far beyond her job titles. As a child, she brought home stray animals, and as an adult, she opens her home to family members in crisis. Her career reflects that same calling to serve; she has worked as a youth corrections officer, an assistant principal, and now, a steady guiding force for women behind the walls. She takes every opportunity to support healing, growth, and transformation as the SCC participants prepare to step into a new chapter beyond incarceration.

“I absolutely love what I do. To see the fear and uncertainty in the ladies’ faces when they first arrive, and then witness their excitement and confidence at graduation, is incredibly fulfilling,” Sophia shared. “My passion is to assist individuals with difficult backgrounds in obtaining the skills they need to become employed and productive citizens.”

Sophia with a fish she caught.

The work is meaningful, but not without challenges. Space limitations in the facility can make teaching difficult, and at home, Sophia has been navigating the emotional weight of caring for her mother, who recently suffered a severe neck injury.

Sophia when she used to play football in high school.

“I use my own personal experiences and how I handle challenges to encourage the ladies to keep moving forward,” she said.

For anyone considering a career as an Employment Counselor in reentry, Sophia offers simple but powerful advice: let go of stereotypes and see people for who they truly are. “Treat individuals as humans first, and respect them as people.”

Outside of work, Sophia finds joy in fishing, cooking, baking, and spending time with her family and pets. She’s also a talented athlete; her love for basketball led her to play professionally for the Arizona Knighthawks and AZ Caliente for four years.

“Remember, we are all just trying to be the best we can be; grace goes a long way,” Sophia said. “I consider myself a supportive team member, and I encourage my coworkers to be the best in what they do to serve our clients.”

Since the creation of the Second Chance Program, thousands of individuals have received reentry services provided through Second Chance Centers, Community-Based Reentry Centers, Parole Offices and DES and ARIZONA@WORK offices throughout the state. If you are interested in finding reentry resources, schedule a virtual appointment with an employment specialist or visit an ARIZONA@WORK office near you.

Sophia with her coworkers.

Sophia with her family.