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Born in Harlem, Built on Redemption
Living Redemption was founded in 2019 to expand the Living Redemption Youth Opportunity Hub, a mentorship initiative that began in 2017. What started as a single youth program is now a citywide movement focused on justice reform, restorative healing, and community empowerment.
At its heart, Living Redemption is rooted in one man’s story—one that proves second chances can lead to lasting change.
A Vision Rooted in Second Chances
In 1993, Rev. Maurice Winley, our founder, stood before a judge, facing the possibility of a life sentence. Once a promising student, he had become entangled in street life, leading to incarceration. But in that moment, he made a life-altering vow:
A Vision Rooted in Second Chances
"If given another chance, I will dedicate my life to helping young people avoid the path I took."
That second chance came, and he never looked back. Maurice returned to Harlem and turned his church, Soul Saving Station for Every Nation, into a place of refuge for young people navigating the same struggles he once faced.
Builiding a Movement
Builiding a Movement
Living Redemption began with a small team, a banquet table, and a commitment to change. Young people showed up—because they saw something different.
- They found a safe space—a place of acceptance, mentorship, and opportunity.
- They gained skills and education that empowered them to change their trajectory.
- They became leaders in their own communities, proving that transformation is possible.
As momentum grew, Living Redemption partnered with local organizations, faith institutions, and government agencies to meet Harlem’s growing needs.
Transforming Systems and Communities
Today, Living Redemption leads youth development, violence prevention, and restorative justice initiatives across New York City, including:
ARCHES
Reduced felony re-conviction rates by 69%
Youth Services Coordination
Developing life skills for social development and connecting youth to various support networks
CM3
Credible Messenger core trains and mobilizes justice impacted leaders to promote healing, safety, and community transformation
Youth Opportunity Hub
A $10.6M initiative that created pathways away from incarceration
Our three-pronged model guides everything we do:
Youth-Centered
Providing mentorship, education, and personal growth opportunities
Family-Focused
Strengthening families to support long-term success
Community-Driven
Partnering with organizations to build safer neighborhoods
From Grassroots to Growth
In 2022, Living Redemption transitioned into an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, expanding its impact citywide. New initiatives include:
Family Enrichment Center
Supporting Harlem families
Meta24 Workforce Lab
Bringing gaming, animation, and coding training to Harlem youth - Click here to view the new Living Redemption Meta Lab.
- META24 is a highly innovative skills-based curriculum combined with entrepreneurial incubators known as METALABS. Click an option below to learn more:
L.O.V.E. HARLEM
Victims of gun violence initiative providing crisis response and long-term support for survivors and their families
We are equipping the next generation with the tools to succeed, breaking cycles of injustice, and shaping a future where every young person has the opportunity to thrive.
A Future of Impact
- Expanding programs that prevent youth involvement in the justice system
- Training the next generation of Credible Messengers and youth mentors
- Developing Harlem’s first 21st-century youth technology center
- Strengthening family and community networks for lasting change
With a growing Board of Directors, strategic partnerships, and a relentless commitment to our mission, we are building a legacy—one life, one family, and one community at a time.