Building Bridges of Hope

Don’t let past mistakes define your future. Every challenge holds the potential for growth. Use your experience to create something positive—not only for yourself, but for others. Uplift those around you, and commit to building A Better Tomorrow for your life and your community."

Derek Bluford & Robert Jesenik, founders

What our clients say...

Oscar B.

After serving time in prison, Oscar B. faced the uncertainty that many returning citizens know all too well—how to start over in a world that often overlooks people with records. That’s when he connected with A Better Tomorrow (ABT Community), a turning point that marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life.

With the support and guidance of ABT Community, Oscar secured a full-time position at Goodwill, a nonprofit organization known for giving second chances to individuals impacted by the justice system. Through hard work and dedication, Oscar quickly became a valued team member.

Oscar credits ABT Community, and Derek Bluford in particular, for helping him regain his confidence and sense of purpose. “A Better Tomorrow isn’t just an organization,” Oscar says. “It’s given me a chance and friend that believed in me, and helped me when I needed it most.”

Today, Oscar continues to thrive at Goodwill, and his story is a reminder that with support, opportunity, and belief, transformation is not only possible—it’s powerful. He is living proof that second chances create stronger communities and brighter futures.

What our clients say...

Gary M.

"After I was released from prison, I didn't know where to start. Derek and A Better Tomorrow stepped in right away - he bought ne clothes, helped me get on my feet, and got me a job almost immediately. That support meant everything. I'm greateful for the opportunity and proud to be moving forward. I highly recommend ABT Community to anyone serious about turning their life around.

What our clients say...

Amit B.

“I’m truly grateful for the support I received from A Better Tomorrow (ABT) Community during my job search. As someone reentering the workforce, I faced unique challenges — but this platform made a real difference.

ABT Community offered a wide range of job listings specifically open to individuals with prior justice involvement, along with clear information about which employers truly support second-chance hiring. The website also provided valuable guidance on building my resume, explaining employment gaps, and preparing for interviews with honesty and confidence.

Thanks to ABT Community, I found a great job with an employer who values both my skills and my personal journey. I highly recommend this site to anyone reentering the workforce and looking for genuine opportunities and understanding.”

Our Story

Derek Bluford and Robert Jesenik were both sentenced to federal prison for white-collar financial crimes. During their incarceration, they met and formed a bond grounded in faith, trust, and honesty. Committed to building a new foundation and creating lasting impact, they devoted themselves to helping others. Together, they taught classes in GED preparation, English as a Second Language, and paralegal certification. Derek has served as a full-time law clerk, while Robert has taught an ACE class and assisted many with their BOP Remedy Process and related legal matters.

United by purpose, they pledged to use their experiences for good. Today, they’re co-authoring their first book. The books' main purpose is to assist inmates, while incarcerated, to prepare for a successful reentry with family, friends, career and society. The book, in partnership with a dedicated mentor will guide inmates, while incarcerated, in achieving Personal Excellence, Income and Credit planning, Educational and Vocational participation, and Personal Improvement, and will be available in early 2026!

1,200+
Lives Touched

Students that have taken our classes

Over 33+ Years Of Sentence Reductions

While Mr. Bluford served as Law Clerk, with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, his work helped secure over 33 years of time reductions for dozens of rehabilitated offenders. Mr. Bluford utilized legal relief vehicles such as Amendment 821, Motion To Reduce Sentence and Compassionate Release, and more.

6 Job Placements

Since March of 2025, we have successfully placed 6 recently incarcerated individuals with full-time jobs.

Our Mission

Hands, low angle and pile for team building with friends outdoor, support and solidarity i

At ABT Community, our mission is to empower incarcerated and recently released individuals to build successful, purpose-driven lives. Through education, job placement, mentorship, and accountability, we support each person’s journey toward lasting reentry and personal transformation. From providing access to degrees, vocational certifications, and second chance employment opportunities, to fostering a culture of community, trust, and support, we work to break the cycle of recidivism and create A Better Tomorrow—for individuals, families, and society as a whole.