About Us
ARISE, or All Redeeming Incarcerated Souls of Esteem, was founded in 2021 by Michael Welch Bey, who, after serving 23 years of incarceration, experienced firsthand the challenges returning citizens face in reuniting with family and reintegrating with society upon their release from prison. Having successfully overcome these challenges, including housing and employment, he became committed to addressing the lack of resources men in similar circumstances face in the Charlotte community.
In response, Michael established ARISE to provide essential resources such as housing, employment opportunities, and mentorship programs to combat recidivism and facilitate the successful reintegration of returning citizens into society. Through his own personal experience with reentry, Mr. Welch Bey recognized the need for a more holistic approach that addressed not only the practical challenges of finding housing, employment, and financial stability, but also the emotional and psychological toll of reintegration. Today, ARISE continues to build on this vision, providing a comprehensive range of programs and services that empower individuals with the tools, resources, and community connections they need to succeed. With the support of our dedicated Board of Directors, volunteers, and partners, we are proud to have helped countless individuals find a sense of belonging and purpose as they work towards building fulfilling, purpose-driven lives. |
Michael and Katrina Welch Bey
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Al's Story
Al's journey from incarceration to reintegration into society is marked by his encounter with the ARISE Program, a community initiative that aids individuals in transitioning back into their lives. Released from prison in 2020 after serving a 22-year sentence, Al's reentry was facilitated by his sister, who coincidentally lived adjacent to the ARISE house. As he adapted to his newfound freedom, he observed the development of the program through his sister's interactions with Jason, one of its organizers.
Al's prison sentence had lasted from age 18 to 41. Despite the challenges of incarceration, he maintained a vision for his future, aspiring to secure a stable job, enjoy the simplicity of life, and provide for his family. While some vocational training was available within the prison, Al found it challenging to align his evolving interests with the rigid program offerings. The limited opportunities for family support during his transition out of prison underscored the need for external resources.
Upon his release, Al embraced a plan that involved living with his sister for a few months as he adjusted to life outside of prison. However, the ARISE Program aligned with his goals, offering him an opportunity to live independently while receiving support during this pivotal phase. The program's transformative approach, symbolized by the physical refurbishment of the ARISE house, resonated with Al's personal journey of rebuilding his life.
ARISE didn't merely provide housing; it became a platform for empowerment. Through affordable living conditions and financial stability, Al was able to regain control over his life and make substantial progress. He obtained work as a truck driver, enabling him to experience the freedom he had longed for during his incarceration. The program's support extended beyond mere accommodation, fostering his self-esteem, confidence, and integration into society.
ARISE's impact reverberated in Al's daily life. Affordable housing and wise financial management enabled him to acquire transportation, establish routines, and ultimately transition into his new career. By facilitating a seamless reintegration into society, the program had a profound effect on Al's trajectory. Beyond the practical assistance, it restored a sense of normalcy and stability that was essential for his personal growth.
Al's journey underscores the importance of community-based initiatives like the ARISE Program in facilitating successful reentry for individuals leaving the prison system. Such programs bridge the gap between the aspirations of former inmates and the realities of societal reintegration, offering not only housing but also the tools and support necessary to thrive once more. Al's story reflects the potential for positive transformation when individuals are provided with the right resources and opportunities as they reenter society.
Al's prison sentence had lasted from age 18 to 41. Despite the challenges of incarceration, he maintained a vision for his future, aspiring to secure a stable job, enjoy the simplicity of life, and provide for his family. While some vocational training was available within the prison, Al found it challenging to align his evolving interests with the rigid program offerings. The limited opportunities for family support during his transition out of prison underscored the need for external resources.
Upon his release, Al embraced a plan that involved living with his sister for a few months as he adjusted to life outside of prison. However, the ARISE Program aligned with his goals, offering him an opportunity to live independently while receiving support during this pivotal phase. The program's transformative approach, symbolized by the physical refurbishment of the ARISE house, resonated with Al's personal journey of rebuilding his life.
ARISE didn't merely provide housing; it became a platform for empowerment. Through affordable living conditions and financial stability, Al was able to regain control over his life and make substantial progress. He obtained work as a truck driver, enabling him to experience the freedom he had longed for during his incarceration. The program's support extended beyond mere accommodation, fostering his self-esteem, confidence, and integration into society.
ARISE's impact reverberated in Al's daily life. Affordable housing and wise financial management enabled him to acquire transportation, establish routines, and ultimately transition into his new career. By facilitating a seamless reintegration into society, the program had a profound effect on Al's trajectory. Beyond the practical assistance, it restored a sense of normalcy and stability that was essential for his personal growth.
Al's journey underscores the importance of community-based initiatives like the ARISE Program in facilitating successful reentry for individuals leaving the prison system. Such programs bridge the gap between the aspirations of former inmates and the realities of societal reintegration, offering not only housing but also the tools and support necessary to thrive once more. Al's story reflects the potential for positive transformation when individuals are provided with the right resources and opportunities as they reenter society.
We invite you to explore our website and learn more about our mission, our programs, and the heartfelt stories of those whose lives we have touched. Through the stories of individuals like Mr. Welch Bey and Al, we hope to inspire and empower others to join us in our mission of creating a more just and compassionate society for all.
Join Michael Welch Bey, along with participants Jerry Thompson and Travis Williams, in a panel discussion about their transformative experiences in the 2018/19 pilot ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP).