Nonprofits Create Community is NIA’s theme for 2026, as we celebrate the ways that nonprofits come through for their communities in spite of all the challenges facing them. In this series, meet some NIA-insured nonprofits who share their stories of creating community in their own words.
Meet Jail to Jobs of Austin, TX
Melissa Felkner, Office Manager at Jail to Jobs explains:
“At Jail to Jobs, our mission is to empower justice-involved youth to find purpose, launch a career, and end generational poverty.”
How does your nonprofit and your mission create community for the people and places you serve?
Meeting People Where They Are and Providing Consistent Support
“We create community by meeting young people where they are — physically, emotionally, and spiritually — and surrounding them with consistent support, faith, and love. This sense of community extends beyond our walls.
By working closely with other nonprofits and community partners, we ensure our youth and their families have access to the resources they need.
Together, we create a united support system that helps young people see a future beyond their past and recognize that they are not walking their journey alone.”
What are your nonprofit’s biggest challenges or obstacles to creating community?
Limited Resources and Cuts to Needed Funding
“Our greatest challenge is limited resources/funding cuts. Despite these challenges, we rely heavily on prayer, faith, and the generosity of our donors, volunteers, and community partners.
Their support allows us to stretch our resources, collaborate creatively with other nonprofits, and continue showing up for the youth who depend on us.”
