Who We Are
Our Story
In 2013, Danny Ludeman, former CEO of Wells Fargo Advisors, turned his focus to one of society’s most urgent challenges: the cycle of reincarceration. He brought together community leaders, corrections officials, and academic experts to imagine a better way forward.
That vision became Concordance, founded in 2015 and welcoming our first participants in 2016. Built on evidence-based practices identified by Washington University in St. Louis, our holistic, trauma-informed model addresses the complex barriers people face after prison, including behavioral health, education, employment, and community reintegration.
From our beginnings in Missouri, Concordance has expanded to serve more communities, including Greenville, South Carolina and Richmond, Virginia.
Our Mission
Concordance’s mission is to reduce reincarceration rates through our holistic, evidence-informed re-entry program that helps individuals returning from prison heal, learn, and thrive in their communities.
What We Stand For
At the heart of our work are commitments that ensure every individual has the guidance, resources, and hope needed to move forward with confidence.
Healing
Supporting individuals to overcome past trauma, regain stability, and move forward with confidence.
Equity
Ensuring fair access to opportunities, dignity, and respect.
Hope
Inspiring belief in a true first chance and the power of transformation
How We Work
Concordance helps participants transform their lives by first addressing the underlying issues that led them to commit crime. A majority of people who are incarcerated have experienced severe trauma at a young age and/or struggle with mental health issues and/or a substance use disorder.
We believe that in order for participants to secure and maintain a successful, sustainable path forward, they must first have the tools to heal from the trauma and hardships of their past. This includes support for maintaining sobriety, securing employment, finding independent housing, and reconnecting with family.
For many participants, Concordance provides their first real chance at success in life—giving them the guidance, resources, and support they need to rebuild with confidence and hope.
Where We Work
Concordance serves individuals and communities across multiple regions, meeting people where they are and responding to local needs. Our work is rooted in strong community partnerships and tailored to each location we serve.
Today, Concordance operates in Missouri, South Carolina, and Virginia.
Impact in Your Inbox
Get updates on how Concordance is creating real first chances.