About Us
Approximately 30 years ago while fulfilling the required curriculum for a doctoral program in counseling, with a discipline that was then known by psychologists as conduct disordered youth, Dr. Belinda Moss was advised by a distinguished law enforcement official to forgo any attempts to help any offenders over 12 years old. Appalled and in disbelief of the advice received, she steered her own course of action and decided to facilitate the social transformation of youth. This course of action led her to provide counseling to youth at the Juvenile Detention Center; many who had allegedly committed murder, and many who were under the age of 13. She made a swift discovery that the advice given by the police chief was not factual at all. She discovered that through a potent advocacy program, most of these individuals could indeed be reached. Their behaviors, regardless of how heinous, were actually crying out, "Somebody please help me." Now, some 30 years later after an illustrious career as a military officer, culminating in consulting on reducing the suicide rate throughout the military, she heard that call again. So, here we are.
A Fresh Start Freedom Initiative (AFSFI) was birthed out of the voice which could not be silenced, "Forget about helping anyone over age 12." Through her careful research Dr. Moss feels secure that there are ample people and programs advocating for juvenile offenders ages 11-20. She has, therefore picked up the mantle to help those who seemed to have been overlooked and in need of intervention. These offenders are young adults ages 21-30, who will make up the first phase of AFSFI. Some have found themselves incarcerated and forced to share prison life with hard core or career criminals. The result: they learn how to survive while incarcerated by any means necessary. Abraham Maslow, perceivably the master of understanding human motivation declares, "The first and most basic of all needs are those to do with physical survival." Dr. Moss says, "by putting these young men in danger, they will do what it takes to survive. When they are returned to our communities they are changed young men, but for the worse." Our Justice system has to be reformed Dr. Moss further purports; let's call it what it is, a warehouse for humans, not a correction or rehabilitation center as once boasted.
We are Here to Help
At AFSFI we are convinced that we have a premiere residential transformative program for at risk and nonviolent offenders that will reduce recidivism throughout generations. With more than 25 years' experience in the areas of education, spirituality, self-awareness, mental health, and social reengineering, Dr. Moss has demonstrated proficiency and expertise. This expertise has given her the passion, drive, focus and confidence that guarantee results. Yes, "America Believes in Redemption," and so do we at AFSFI. Mom, dad. sister, brother, grandma and grandpa, we heard your cry. Your loved one is not a lost case; we are here to help!