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# Leap for Ladies

Empowering Women to put prison in the past

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://leapforladies.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [In the Media](https://leapforladies.org/media)
- [Spotlight on LEAP with Donna Terrano on The Wonder Women Show](https://leapforladies.org/archives/3714) - In this compelling episode of The Wonder Women Show, host Yolanda Carvajal sits down with Donna Terrano, Director of Community Engagement at LEAP. Donna shares the driving vision behind LEAP’s mission — empowering individuals through education, outreach, and community programs — and offers insights into how partnerships and grassroots work catalyze lasting change. 👉 Watch the
- [Dragonfly Inspires Redfin's "Definitive Vintage Style Home Decor Shopping List: 13 Must-Have Finds"](https://leapforladies.org/archives/3008) - Dragonfly Thrift offered up some tips for thrifting to Sarah Ford for the Redfin blog. Here's a peek of the must-have finds: There’s nothing quite like the thrill of a great vintage find. The perfect worn-in leather chair, a timeless mid-century coffee table, or a set of delicate porcelain vases that feel straight out of a
- [WSFL Chats with Mahlia and Radmila: Empowering Women at Ladies Empowerment and Action Program](https://leapforladies.org/archives/3680) - Cameron Dobbs and Inside South Florida stopped by LEAP Re-entry Hub, home to the Ladies Empowerment and Action Program (LEAP), to see how this reentry program is helping women transition from incarceration back into their communities. Executive Director Mahlia Lindquist showed us how LEAP provides job training, resources, and mentorship, while their onsite Dragonfly Thrift
- [Leading with Care through LEAP, a Neighborhood Heroes Connect mini-doc](https://leapforladies.org/archives/3366) - In this short documentary, Mahlia Lindquist, Executive Director of LEAP, shares her journey as a leader grounded in compassion, advocacy, and systemic change. Through LEAP, Mahlia is supporting women reentering society with dignity by providing transformational programs focused on entrepreneurship, emotional wellness, and workforce development. Her story is one of care, long-term vision, and the
- [Thrift store in Miami employs women who were incarcerated](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1857) - The Dragonfly Thrift Boutique in Miami gives women coming out of prison a chance to work. The initiative is backed up by LEAP, an organization that helps women re-enter society after incarceration. Read Full Article Here
- [Una tienda de segunda mano da trabajo a mujeres que acaban de salir de prisión y un programa las ayuda a no volver (Univision Noticias)](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1859) - 'Dragon Fly' las emplea desde que salen y con ese sueldo pagan la renta en una habitación compartida y todos los gastos del regreso a la sociedad. Esta y otras historias forman parte del proyecto 'Segunda oportunidad' (*) en el que mostraremos las dificultades que enfrentan las personas que salen de prisión y cómo las resuelven. Read
- [Meet Them Monday: LEAP for Ladies](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1866) - The Ladies Empowerment And Action Program known as LEAP is the first of its kind and the only entrepreneurship training program dedicated to preparing incarcerated women re-enter their communities and be financially independent. Read Full Article Here
- [Miami's Best Kept Secret: Dragonfly Thrift Boutique's Impact revealed on Community Miami News](https://leapforladies.org/archives/3071) - We already know Miami's best kept secret, but are thrilled when someone else stumbles upon it: Dragonfly Thrift Boutique, and its profound impact on the community through the Ladies Empowerment Action Program (LEAP). Executive Director, Malia Lindquist, shares the incredible journey and mission of LEAP, which supports women transitioning from prison. This video highlights Dragonfly
- [Dragonfly Thrift Boutique: A Shopping Experience with Purpose by Inside South Florida](https://leapforladies.org/archives/3062) - Miami sweetheart Cameron Dobbs for Inside South Florida of the CW Miami (WSFL-TV) stopped by Dragonfly to chat LEAP's Executive Director, Mahlia Lindquist, and Dragonfly Manager, Krystle Culbertson, about all things LEAP. "It is a thrift experience because everything here is donated and curated..." Mahlia emphasizes, "It's a place to have a job, earn some
- [Inspiring Conversations with Mahlia Lindquist](https://leapforladies.org/archives/3053) - LEAP's Executive Director Mahlia Lindquist connects with VoyageMIA for their series Hidden Gems: Local Businesses & Creatives You Should Know. They chat about Mahlia's path to LEAP, the often rocky road at a non-profit, and the value of a good mentor. Check out the full article HERE
- [Vice President Kamala Harris Meets with LEAP Graduates](https://leapforladies.org/archives/2481) - Shows Support for Women’s Prison Reentry Programming Miami, Florida – Yesterday, August 1, 2022, Vice President Kamala Harris made a surprise visit to LEAP’s Dragonfly Thrift Boutique. LEAP (Ladies Empowerment & Action Program) is a nonprofit re-entry program providing transformational opportunities for women who have experienced incarceration. During her visit, the Vice President met with
- [Kamala Harris made surprise stop in Little Havana: A thrift store with a mission](https://leapforladies.org/archives/2473) - Gemma Garcia could hardly believe the news when she first heard it. The vice president of the United States was about to visit her Little Havana thrift shop in a few hours, a surprise stop on her quick visit to Miami. The visit held extra weight for Garcia, whose store, Dragonfly Thrift Boutique, has a
- [These Women Are On Their Way Out Of Prison. And They Have Business Plans To Help Them Stay Out](https://leapforladies.org/archives/91) - How are inmates supposed to transition to the world outside of prison? For one pre-release program at the Homestead Correctional Institution, the answer is in entrepreneurship. Nine women graduated this week from the Ladies Empowerment & Action (LEAP) program, wearing dark blue graduation caps and gowns accompanied by ear-to-ear smiles. This is the 13th class
- [Artists look beyond Bars and Borders at Coral Gables Museum](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1806) - To produce “The Art of Compassion,” a heartfelt fusion of art and social change at the Coral Gables Museum, Starr Sariego gathered 20 fellow photographers — most of them local, some internationally known — and paired them with women just released from prison. She collaborated with the Miami-based Ladies Empowerment Action Program (LEAP), which provides
- [Clothing Swaps And Thrifting: South Florida Fashion Experts 'Live And Breathe Secondhand'](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1874) - The fashion industry is among the greatest polluters in the world, but locally, South Florida fashion experts and thrift shoppers are encouraging residents to move towards more eco-friendly options. According to the United Nations, the fashion industry is the second-biggest consumer of water and is responsible for about 8 percent of global carbon emissions. Earlier
- [Renegade Rustlers' Guide to Thrift Gifting for the Holidays](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1871) - Connoisseurs of boho-chic style can easily fall prey to local vendor Jozy DeFord’s Renegade Rustlers vintage goods. On Sundays, she can be found hustling and bustling around her trunk show on Lincoln Road or the Vintage Drippin' Market at R House in Wynwood, talking up customers with the precision and speed of a skilled auctioneer. So for
- [The Five Best Thrift Stores in Miami](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1868) - From Alton Road to Dolphin Mall, Miami-Dade offers no shortage of clothing stores for fashion-forward residents and visitors. Outside of these massive plazas and shopping complexes, though, an abundance of thrift and consignment stores sell high-quality threads at monumental discounts. Often these stores are tucked into unassuming corners throughout the county, making them hard to
- [From prison to business plan – these women are turning incarceration stats on their head.](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1863) - While Rebecca Brown served a five-year prison sentence in Florida, she decided to start a business. She owed this new perspective in large part to a non-profit – Ladies Empowerment & Action Program (LEAP) – that runs on the philosophy that everyone can have a successful, fulfilling life. “I didn’t want to come out the same
- ['Cracked Not Broken' Formerly Incarcerated Women Are Captured In Photo Exhibit](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1854) - Powerful photographs revealing the lives of 25 women post-incarceration are on display at the Coral Gables Museum until Sept. 23. The exhibition, "The Compassion Project," focuses on women who re-entered society after some time behind bars and portrays these women in a new light. Some of the photographs are portraits, others are inspired by poetry and one
- [Going to prison is not the end of these women’s compelling stories.](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1851) - “I want people to open their eyes. We are people, too. We were born into society and we belong in society. Everyone deserves a second chance.” Jackie is a formerly incarcerated woman. I met her and other women like her as a volunteer with LEAP. The organization provides 300 hours over eight months of in-prison
- ['Cracked Not Broken' Formerly Incarcerated Women Are Captured In Photo Exhibit](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1734) - Last month, LEAP for Ladies partnered up with Starr Sariego to create The Compassion Project. An exhibit in the Coral Gables Museum that focuses on 25 women that have spent time behind bars and their new found light as they step into freedom and re-step into society. She gave WLRN a radio interview that touched on how
- [‘My life needed to be changed’: How this Miami thrift store is giving incarcerated women a second chance](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1714) - Opened in 2018 by the Ladies Action and Empowerment Program, the Dragonfly Thrift Boutique in Miami helps train, support, and employ women who have been recently released from prison. This type of programming is vital to an individual’s success and survival after release. Watch Video Here
- [Unique Boutique In Miami Combines Mentoring And Money](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1084) - MIAMI (CBSMiami) – It’s an unlikely pairing, women prisoners and entrepreneurs, but there is an organization of women that have figured out how to mentor, change lives and make money. And they are doing it with something most people love to do and that is shop. “Dragonfly is a symbol of change, of evolution, that’s
- [These women were in prison. Thanks to an extraordinary program, they're now entrepreneurs.](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1081) - She was partway through a five-year sentence for domestic violence-related charges when she realized that something had to change in her life. Due to a particularly traumatic childhood, Brown found herself in abusive relationships, and those abusive relationships led to incarceration. Though prison wasn’t pleasant, she credits it with helping her come to terms with
- [Transitioning Out Of Prison: Empowering Women to Find Jobs](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1068) - Throughout the country, the women’s prison population is on the rise. According to the Prison Policy Initiative, women’s state prison population grew 834 percent over nearly 40 years — more than double the pace of the growth among men. All this week on The Takeaway, we’re looking at what happens after people are released from incarceration. So when
- [Miami Thrift Store Gives Women Coming Out Of Prison Jobs](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1075) - Shazonia Horton was released from prison a month ago and the day after her release she had a job waiting for her at the Dragonfly Thrift Boutique in Little Havana. After serving four years in prison, one of her biggest concerns was how she’d be able to take care of herself when she’s out. The
- [Program Offers Job Training, Hope to Women in Florida's Notorious Female Prisons](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1066) - Anchelin Gonzalez was just 17 when she left the Bronx and moved to Palm Beach to give birth to her son back in 2005. She was "leading a fast and dangerous life" in New York, she says, but relocated to live with her uncle in a sunnier side of the country. It didn't change anything —
- [They did their time. Now, they’re finding a new life after prison](https://leapforladies.org/archives/1059) - Rebecca Brown knows the importance of having a mentor in prison. Brown served nearly five years in jail and prison after her conviction on aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. The incident stemmed from a domestic violence case involving her former boyfriend. She initially served at Lowell Correctional Institution near Ocala, the nation’s largest women’s prison, before
- [100 Women: From prison to profit](https://leapforladies.org/archives/98) - The number of women in prisons around the world is growing rapidly - up by 50% since the year 2000, compared to a rise of just 18% for men. Re-offending rates are alarmingly high and the stigma of a custodial sentence can make finding a job impossible. But women who are taught to set up

## Pages

- [Home](https://leapforladies.org/) - LEAP is dedicated to helping incarcerated women transcend their past. We are the only nonprofit agency in all of Florida to focus on women in prison using a holistic entrepreneurship model.
- [2026 LEAP Second Chance Gala](https://leapforladies.org/events/2026-leap-second-chance-gala) - October 30, 20266:00 - 11:00 PMRubell Museum (1100 NW 23rd St, Miami, FL 33127) On this night, we gather to illuminate stories often unseen, and celebrate the brilliance within every woman. Join LEAP in celebrating 17 years of impact. LEAP's Gala is more than a party, it’s a powerful tribute to the women rewriting their
- [Donate](https://leapforladies.org/donate) - Donate Consider a monthly reoccurring donation and join LEAP’s Dragonfly Inner Circle. When you are a member of LEAP's Dragonfly Inner Circle, you receive while giving! Benefits of membership: $10/month and higher donation - 10% discount at LEAP’s Dragonfly Thrift Boutique $20/month and higher donation - 10% discount at LEAP’s Dragonfly Thrift Boutique AND a
- [2025 LEAP Second Chance Gala](https://leapforladies.org/events/2025-leap-second-chance-gala) - On behalf of LEAP, thank you for making our Second Chance Gala 2025 a huge success. Because of your generosity, we not only reached our fundraising goal, we surpassed it! Every dollar raised will directly support women in our program as they move forward in their lives and put prison in the past. See below for photos
- [Creative Impact Lab](https://leapforladies.org/creative-impact-lab) - Creative Impact Lab x LEAP LEAP was selected as a nonprofit client for NBCUniversal’s Creative Impact Lab, an NBCUnites initiative that funds nonprofit creative agencies employing young creatives to craft story-driven marketing assets for mission-driven organizations. Partnering with Urgent, Inc., a youth media nonprofit, emerging creators produced campaign videos that highlight LEAP’s work helping women
- [Women's Reenty Hub](https://leapforladies.org/womens-reenty-hub) - LEAP offers a variety of services to make reentry less stressful. LEAP’s Reentry Hub serves as a centralized location where women with a history of incarceration in South Florida can access a wide array of reentry services. Directed by a graduate of LEAP's prison program, the HUB offers case management, social services, and classes that
- [Virtual Entrepreneurship Academy](https://leapforladies.org/virtual-entrepreneurship-academy) - LEAP’s Virtual Entrepreneurial Academy teaches business skills to women who have experienced incarceration. Over the course of a fun and interactive 12 weeks of classes students learn the nuts and bolts of starting a micro-business. Topics include essential financial, marketing and legal business concepts. Students also learn strategies for how to present their ideas to
- [Changing the Narrative](https://leapforladies.org/changing-the-narrative) - Changing Hearts and Minds & Creating Community LEAP graduates leave prison completely transformed. They have accepted responsibility for their mistakes, looked within to examine the root cause of their past actions that led to prison, and acquired new skills to enable them to be self-sufficient and crime free. However, for our women to truly succeed,
- [Get Involved](https://leapforladies.org/get-involved) - LEAP is grateful for those who give their time, talent and treasure to help us transform the lives of the women who enter our program. There are different ways you can get involved and make an impact at LEAP. Please consider one of the following or reach out to us directly with questions. Volunteer Every
- [Resources](https://leapforladies.org/resources) - Below is a list of resources for formerly incarcerated women. We hope you will find them useful and helpful. Women’s Prison Association The Women’s Prison Association, founded in 1865, is the nation’s oldest service and advocacy organization committed to helping women with criminal justice histories see new possibilities for themselves and their families. WPA offers a
- [Dragonfly Thrift](https://leapforladies.org/dragonfly-thrift)
- [Success Stories](https://leapforladies.org/success-stories) - If success could be measured in smiles and warm feelings, this moment would capture a 100% success rate. No wonder the recidivism rate has never gone higher than 6% since LEAP’s inception nearly a decade ago.There are so many measures of success: families re-united, self-esteemed restored, housing, jobs, and more. Recidivism – the rate at
- [Success Stories](https://leapforladies.org/success-stories-2) - When a woman leaves prison, she has nothing but the clothes on her back. She often has no home, no job, no transportation, and no health insurance. Within 24 hours, she must register with the Sheriff’s office and may have to go to another office to register with probation. Newly released women – themselves frequently
- [Volunteer](https://leapforladies.org/volunteer) - Volunteers are an integral part of LEAP's success. We are committed to changing the hearts and minds of our community to embrace women who have experienced incarceration, and volunteers are necessary in making that a reality. LEAP welcomes volunteers with open arms to join our community of people committed to change. Our organization is made
- [Gallery](https://leapforladies.org/gallery)
- [In-Prison Education](https://leapforladies.org/in-prison-education) - Overview LEAP’s in-prison educational program addresses the unique pathways to prison and needs of women and is evidence-based. LEAP is one of the few programs in the country that takes a comprehensive and holistic approach to preparing incarcerated women for release. In addition, LEAP supports graduates post-release by acting as a bridge to housing, jobs
- [Past Events](https://leapforladies.org/the-compassion-project) - Second Chance Gala - “Wings of Empowerment” LEAP’s Second Chance Gala Celebrates 15 Years of “Wings of Empowerment” in a Magical Evening of Unity and Support The Second Chance Gala, hosted by the Ladies Empowerment & Action Program (LEAP), took place on September 14, 2024 with resounding success at Suite SVN, celebrating 15 years of
- [Contact](https://leapforladies.org/contact) - Thank you for visiting LEAP. We’re always happy to hear from supporters, media, and anyone concerned with helping ex-offenders make a successful transition back into society. {{CODEmyjscode}} PHONE:786-534-4178 MAILING ADDRESS:5815 SW 68th Street South Miami, Florida 33143 EMAIL:info@leapforladies.org If you have any questions or need more information, please feel free to reach out to us
- [Events](https://leapforladies.org/events)
- [Calendar](https://leapforladies.org/calendar)
- [Awards](https://leapforladies.org/awards) - Leap is proud to share the following awards presented to us for various achievements we've made over the years! 2024 Winner of Miami Herald Miami-Dade Favorites - Best Thrift Shop 2023 Winner of Miami Herald Miami-Dade Favorites - Best Thrift Shop 2018 Winner of Miami New Times Best Thrift Shop 2017 Winner of Greater Miami
- [Board of Directors](https://leapforladies.org/board-of-directors)
- [Second Chance Gala - Wings of Empowerment](https://leapforladies.org/second-chance-gala-wings-of-empowerment) - A Celebration of Women by Women When: September 14, 2024 Time: 6 pm - 10:30 pm Where: Suite SVN River Landing Shops 1420 NW North River Drive, Suite 420 (8th Floor), Miami, FL 33125 Join us for specialty cocktails, mocktails, dinner and dancing for an empowering evening featuring an all female line up of entertainment
- [Second Chance Gala](https://leapforladies.org/gala23) - Join us to make a difference! When: September 30, 2023Starts 6:00PM Ends 10:00PMWhere: JOY Miami Studios (698 NE 1st Ave Suite G178, Miami, FL 33132) The night will include: Pre-Party: Cocktails & Hors D'oeurves The Party: Live auction, Stories of Second Chances, & a Special Appearance by singer Radmila Lolly After Party: Featuring music by
- [Tags](https://leapforladies.org/events-2/tags) - CONTENTS leapforladies.org, LEAP, Second chances, justice impacted, formerly incarcerated, prison education, Ladies Empowerment Action Program, Entrepreneurship
- [Support LEAP Graduate Businesses](https://leapforladies.org/leap-graduate-businesses)
- [Our Partners](https://leapforladies.org/our-partners) - LEAP is grateful to our many partners, local and national, for their dedication to our mission of helping women transcend their past. Website photo credit: Starr Sariego Photography
- [More Than](https://leapforladies.org/morethan) - THE MORE THAN PROJECT LEAP focuses exclusively on supporting formerly incarcerated women heal by providing education, housing, employment, and Revolutionary Love. To us, Revolutionary Love includes a radical transformation in how we view and talk about formerly incarcerated women. We want society to see that the women who have experienced incarceration are mothers, sisters, and daughters… humans deserving
- [Housing](https://leapforladies.org/housing) - Transitional Housing Despite the proven efficacy of re-entry programs, most women leave prison without suitable housing and oftentimes find themselves returning to shelters or situations which led them to prison in the first place. To avoid this, LEAP established the LEAP Transition Housing Program, in Miami. At its two transitional homes LEAP provides a soft
- [Our Mission](https://leapforladies.org/our-mission) - Our Mission LEAP empowers women who have experienced incarceration through transformational opportunities and advocacy. Vision For every woman who has experienced incarceration and who is committed to change to have the opportunity and tools to achieve her full potential. Our Core Values Second Chances We believe every human being deserves a second chance. People can
- [Our History](https://leapforladies.org/our-history) - In April 2008, three women bonded while volunteering with a faith based prison program for women. They shared a belief that people deserve a second chance. They also shared a realization that high recidivism (re-incarceration) rates are driven by a lack of hope and lack of tools. The plight of women was even more bleak because the
- [Fast Facts](https://leapforladies.org/statistics) - Second chances? In reality, for most women in prison, LEAP represents their first chance. • 82% of imprisoned women are subjected to sexual abuse as children • 75% are victimized by domestic violence as adults • 70% suffer from addiction • 73% suffer from mental illness • Just 14% of women in state prison have
- [Give Miami Day](https://leapforladies.org/give-miami-day-2) - Why Give? Ladies Empowerment and Action Program (LEAP) is a one of a kind nonprofit, which provides revolutionary love to all women who have experienced incarceration. LEAP empowers formerly and currently incarcerated women through mentoring, education, employment, therapeutic services, and entrepreneurship. With LEAP's less than 6% recidivism rate, we know that when women are given
- [Our Program](https://leapforladies.org/program) - Leap runs a one-of-a-kind prison re-entry program for women combining essential employability and life skills, entrepreneurship, self-love, and mentorship. LEAP empowers incarcerated women through..... 300+ hours of holistic in-prison education and mentorship Employability and life skills classes Trauma informed substance abuse programming Post-release housing and employment support On-going advocacy and life-long community LEAP begins with
- [Formerly Incarcerated Women Speak Out On Voting Rights For Florida Felons](https://leapforladies.org/formerly-incarcerated-women-speak-out-on-voting-rights-for-florida-felons) - After voters passed an amendment that restores felons' voting rights in 2018, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill prohibiting convicted felons from voting until they pay all their fees. Many voting rights activists call this a poll tax. Read Full Article Here.
- [Give Miami Day 2020](https://leapforladies.org/give-miami-day) - The Ladies Empowerment & Action Program for Give Miami Day 2020 November 19th, 2020 is Give Miami Day and we are celebrating! Join us in supporting the Ladies Empowerment & Action Program (LEAP), whose work has successfully transitioned hundreds of formerly incarcerated women back into the community and workforce; returning mothers to their children and
- [Newsletter](https://leapforladies.org/newsletter) - Below are a few of our recent newsletters! October 2019September 2019July 2019June 2019May 2019April 2019March 2019February 2019January 2019December 2018November 2018September 2018July 2018June 2018December 2017March 2017December 2016March 2016 Join Our Newsletter If you would like to join our list and receive newsletters like the above, please submit the following form:
- [About Us](https://leapforladies.org/about) - Founded in 2009, LEAP is dedicated to helping incarcerated women transcend their past. We are the only nonprofit agency in all of Florida to focus on women in prison using a holistic entrepreneurship model. Our prison education program teaches practical employment, entrepreneurship, and essential life skills. Just as importantly, LEAP supports our students to go
- [Second Chance Soiree](https://leapforladies.org/soiree) - Date: Thursday, September 26, 2019 Time: 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm Location: Coral Gables Congregational Church - 3010 De Soto Blvd, Coral Gables FL 33134 Join us for LEAP's 10 Year Anniversary celebration at the Second Chance Soiree, an evening of Arts, Songs, and Stories. Tickets to the event are $150 and include Cocktails, Elegant hors d’ oeuvres,
- [Today.com - ‘My life needed to be changed’](https://leapforladies.org/today-com-my-life-needed-to-be-changed) - How this Miami thrift store is giving incarcerated women a second chance.CLICK LICK TO WATCH THIS FEATURE ON TODAY.COM https://www.today.com/video/-my-life-needed-to-be-changed-how-this-miami-thrift-store-is-giving-incarcerated-women-a-second-chance-60200005911?fbclid=IwAR2FdagY0Ax1T3swYdnvCaEkA1mQbN7a6IDMvrYqkY4daSur4G2E91voyaE
- [News](https://leapforladies.org/news)
- [Financial Information](https://leapforladies.org/financial-information) - Below you will find our financials from the last few years. Form 990 – Fiscal 2017 Form 990 - Fiscal 2016
- [My Bookings](https://leapforladies.org/events-2/my-bookings) - CONTENTS
- [Categories](https://leapforladies.org/events-2/categories) - CONTENTS
- [Locations](https://leapforladies.org/events-2/locations) - CONTENTS
- [My account](https://leapforladies.org/my-account) - [woocommerce_my_account]
- [Checkout](https://leapforladies.org/checkout) - [woocommerce_checkout]
- [Cart](https://leapforladies.org/cart) - [woocommerce_cart]
- [Shop](https://leapforladies.org/shop)
- [FAQ's](https://leapforladies.org/faqs)

## Calendars

- [Leap Annual Calendar](https://leapforladies.org/calendar/leap-annual-calendar) - [title] [when] [location] [description] [link newwindow="yes"]See more details[/link]

## Events

- [When the Sentence Ends: Half-Day Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Program Ethics, Reentry & the Lawyer’s Role in Economic Stability](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/when-the-sentence-ends-half-day-continuing-legal-education-cle-program-ethics-reentry-the-lawyers-role-in-economic-stability) - When the Sentence Ends: Legal and Economic Barriers to Reentry LEAP’s upcoming Continuing Legal Education (CLE) event, When the Sentence Ends: Legal and Economic Barriers to Reentry, offers a unique and immersive opportunity to explore the realities individuals face after incarceration. Designed for legal professionals and open to the broader community, this program brings together education, lived
- [Galentine's Night](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/galentines-night) - Join us for a night of connection and fun. Enjoy energetic breathwork led by Michelle Shindell, Vision Board crafting with Miami Crafty and much more. Light bites and beverages will be served. $10 suggested donation. Friday, February 13th 7:00–9:00 PM $10 suggested donation Location: Dragonfly Thrift Boutique- 5815 SW 68th St, South Miami, FL 33143
- [Holiday Market](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/holiday-market)
- [Give Miami Day](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/give-miami-day-2) - Give Miami Day, one of the largest annual giving events in the country, is an incredible opportunity to make a real difference in our community. On November 20, people come together to support nonprofits that are transforming lives. LEAP is proud to be a part of this inspiring tradition, and we invite you to join
- [Dragonfly Thrift Birthday Bash](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/happy-birthday-dragonfly-thrift) - Celebrating ONE YEAR in South Miami Join us as Dragonfly Thrift celebrates 1 year in South Miami. There will be live music, raffles BOGO deals, and light bites. Performance by DJ Lady M Special appearance by Sebastian the Ibis at 1pm! Hope to see you there!
- [LEAP at the Give Miami Day 5k Race & Festival](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/leap-at-the-give-miami-day-5k-race-festival) - The Give Miami Day 5k Race & Festival Join LEAP as we take part in the The Miami Foundation's first-ever Give Miami 5K and Festival on Sunday, November 16 at Maurice A Ferre Park for the – a new way for people who care about Miami to get involved in our community’s largest mass generosity campaign. Every
- [LEAP & REFORM Alliance Listening Session](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/leap-reform-alliance-listening-session) - Join us for a powerful conversation hosted by LEAP and REFORM ALLIANCE. This community listening session brings together reentry partners, DOC, and directly impacted voices to explore the realities of probation and parole. Through guided discussion and shared experiences, we hope to build mutual understanding and offer insight that can help support the important work
- [Dress Like a Star – Personal Styling & Makeup](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/dress-like-a-star-personal-styling-makeup) - You're invited to Dress Like a Star, an exclusive personal styling and makeup event at Dragonfly Thrift Boutique! We’re rolling out the red carpet with two powerhouse professionals from NBCUniversal’s Telemundo: Andrea Castro, a seasoned expert with over 20 years in the television and entertainment world. From the Miss Universe pageant to the Super Bowl,
- [Flaunt Your Freedom: Star-Spangled Thrift Spectacular ](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/flaunt-your-freedom) - Flaunt Your Freedom at a Star-Spangled Thrift Spectacular Join us on Saturday, July 12th, from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm for a celebration of freedom and expression through fashion, body art, music, and community. Booths with featured experiences are free to the community, so celebrate together with music and food at Dragonfly Thrift for a
- [Second Chance Annual Gala](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/second-chance-annual-gala) - We’re turning Sweet Sixteen and you’re invited to the celebration! LEAP’s Gala is more than a party, it’s a powerful tribute to the women rewriting their futures beyond prison walls. Enjoy an inspiring evening of specialty cocktails, mocktails, dinner, and dancing—hosted by the radiant television personality Cameron Dobbs—as we celebrate stories of transformation, resilience, and community. Tickets
- [Spilling the Tea on Identity, Justice & Joy](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/3265) - Elegant tea party with small snacks & big discussions Plus a special Makeup Tutorial by professional & award-winning makeup artist Melodie Briere at 1 pm Join us for an intimate garden party–style roundtable celebrating Pride Month through open dialogue, connection, and healing. This elegant afternoon will uplift voices from the LGBTQ+ and justice-impacted communities with real
- [Upcycle Workshop: Mending Clothes through Embroidery with Tatiana](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/upcycle-event-mending-clothes-through-embroidery-with-tatiana) - Have an item of clothing that is stained, has a hole, or needs a fresh look? Give your clothes a fun upgrade through embroidery. Tatiana will walk you through some basic stitches to add a floral touch to your garments. You are welcome to bring an item of clothing from home, or come to
- [LEAP Storytelling Contest: "Leap of Faith"](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/leap-storytelling-contest-leap-of-faith) - LEAP Storytelling Contest: "Leap of Faith" Inspired by NPR's The Moth podcast, this contest invites LEAP graduates to share their personal stories of transformation, resilience, and hope. Theme: "Leap of Faith" Graduates, this competition is a chance to share a meaningful chapter of your life, something real you’ve lived through, lost, learned, or gained. It’s
- [Crime, Consequences & Compassion: A 360° Conversation Panel on Justice & Reentry](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/crime-consequences-compassion-a-360-conversation-panel-on-justice-reentry) - A roundtable discussion designed to bring together voices from all sides of the justice system. Using an Ask-It Basket format, audience members will anonymously submit tough, unfiltered questions to be answered by a diverse panel, including formerly incarcerated individuals, state attorneys, police officers, and judges. This open, honest conversation aims to challenge assumptions, break down
- [10 Days of Connection - Community Partner Event (impact of parental incarceration)](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/10-days-of-connection-community-partner-event-impact-of-parental-incarceration) - LEAPs' Executive Director Mahlia Lindquist and LEAP graduate Parker are guest panelists at this event to discuss the impact of parental incarceration on children and the community at large. By educating participants about the impact of incarceration on children, parents and their families, we hope to increase our community’s empathy for families affected by incarceration
- [SoMi Second Saturdays Night Market](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/somi-second-saturdays-night-market) - Join Dragonfly Thrift at the SoMi Night Market for a night of shopping, community, and fun! --- SoMi Second Saturdays is held on the second Saturday of each month, where you can SHOP - DANCE - EAT - DRINK with live music and a night market in the heart of SoMi. Date: Second Saturday of
- [Revamp & Reuse: Crafting & Sustainability Event](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/revamp-reuse-crafting-sustainability-event) - Join Dragonfly Thrift Boutique and CollaboARTive Inc. as we celebrate Second Chance Month and Earth Day by giving new life to old treasures. Craft Your Own Upcycled Creations: Transform thrifted T-shirts into reusable tote bags Make bag charms and pins from repurposed materials Express your creativity while reducing waste! RSVP: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/3kh8vx7 👕 Clothing Drive: Bring
- [Bring your Bling to Brunch](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/bring-your-bling-to-brunch) - Bring your unwanted, broken, or out of style gold jewelry—yes, even that lone earring!—plus any unused sterling silver to brunch. Without spending a dime, transform it into cash and support the Women’s Fund Miami-Dade & LEAP. This is sustainable giving at its best—recycling precious metals, reducing demand for conflict gold, and empowering women in the
- [LEAP’s Women’s Reentry Networking Breakfast](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/leaps-womens-reentry-networking-breakfast) - Empowering Second Chances: Connect, Collaborate, Celebrate! Join us for LEAP’s Women’s Reentry Networking Breakfast, a celebration of second chances and community collaboration! In honor of Second Chance Month, this event brings together partners and advocates dedicated to empowering formerly incarcerated women. Connect, share insights, and strengthen the network of support that helps women rebuild their
- [Valentine's Love & Luxe Experience](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/valentines-love-luxe-experience-at-dragonfly) - This Valentine’s Dragonfly Thrift boutique invites you to Love & Luxe An exclusive shopping experience with unique style. Skip the crowds and savor an intimate evening made for two. Complimentary wine, charcuterie board & dessert will be served. Reserve your night: Feb. 10 (7 to 8:30pm) Feb. 11 (7 to 8:30pm) Feb. 12 (7 to
- [Happy Galentine's Day](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/happy-galentines-day) - Happy Galentine's Day At Dragonfly, we are all about celebrating fabulous women in our lives who lift us up. So this Valentine's Day, we want to share the love with our favorite Gals. Join us for revolutionary love vision boards, board games, complimentary wine & munchies, karaoke and more!
- [Holistic Wellness Event: Fitness of Body, Mind, Soul & Wallet](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/holistic-wellness-event-fitness-of-body-mind-soul-wallet) - Join Us for a Transformative Wellness Event at Dragonfly Thrift Boutique! Kick off the new year by prioritizing your holistic wellness! On January 11th, Dragonfly Thrift Boutique is hosting a dynamic Wellness Event designed to nourish your body, mind, and spirit. This engaging and inspiring evening will bring together community partners, wellness experts, and a
- [2024 Second Chance Gala - Wings of Empowerment](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/2024-second-chance-gala-wings-of-empowerment) - A Celebration of Women by Women Join us for specialty cocktails, mocktails, dinner and dancing for an empowering evening featuring an all female line up of entertainment in tribute to the women of LEAP. We have an eclectic ensemble including our emcee Constance Jones of NBC News, rock classics across the decades with the Bango
- [LEAP Networking Breakfast](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/2623) - Connect with other Miami change-makers to celebrate second chance month. LEAP will host a networking breakfast at the Reentry Hub to bring together reentry and supporting non-profits. Register HERE
- [Book Discussion - The Many Lives of Mama Love](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/book-discussion-the-many-lives-of-mama-love) - LEAP is hosting a discussion on "The Many Lives of Mama Love: A Memoir of Lying, Stealing, Writing, and Healing," and Lara Love Hardin offered to join us via Zoom! Join us in person at the Women's Reentry Hub in South Miami or via Zoom (link will be sent closer to event date). • OPRAH’S
- [6th Bi-Annual Virtual Academy Pitch Competition](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/6th-bi-annual-virtual-academy-pitch-competition) - The ladies of the Virtual Entrepreneurship Academy have been developing their business plans and are ready to pitch you their ideas! It's like Shark Tank without the bite! Join us and help vote on the pitches. RSVP
- [Second Chance Month Clothing Drive Begins](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/second-chance-month-clothing-drive)
- [Give Miami Day](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/give-miami-day)
- [Legal Symposium: Ethical and Practical Considerations for the Legal Profession](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/legal-symposium2019) - This intermediate workshop will include talks by Judge Steve Leifman and Honorable Katherine Fernandez Rundle, and will help legal professionals to address ethical and practical considerations in a changing world. By better understanding the role of health and illness in American society, this workshop will shed light on health, mental illness, substance abuse and dependence disorders
- [Healing the Hurt: Expanding the Conversation of The Art of Compassion](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/healing-the-hurt-expanding-the-conversation-of-the-art-of-compassion) - Shed Boren, PhD, FIU Stemphil College of Public Health and Social Work, Panel Moderator Adrian Mesa, DNP, AMP Group Mental Health Services Dale Quaint, Prison Instructor, LEAP Lina Acosta Sandaal, MA, LMFT, Director, Stop Parenting Alone And some of our special LEAP Ladies Photographs, complemented by each subjects’ powerful testimonies, grace the museum walls
- [Panel Discussion: The Making of The Art Of Compassion: From Conception to Exhibitionn](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/panel-discussion-the-making-of-the-art-of-compassion-from-conception-to-exhibitionn) - Hear from the participants behind our current exhibition, “The Art of Compassion.” The curator, photographers and women profiled will discuss how photography empowers social change, how the images were made, and how the participants were touched by the experience. This event is in partnership with Leica Store Miami and their Women in Focus Festival. You
- [Second Chance Soiree](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/second-chance-soiree)
- [Class 18 Graduation](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/class-18-graduation)
- [After Hours: Ladies' Night!](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/after-hours-ladies-night) - The fun continues at the Spotlight Bar, as the women of Just The Funny keep the party going with an all new show featuring shortform improv, longform improv and musical improv. It's Ladies' Night, and the fun is right! Tickets: $8 online $10 at the door Tickets available online at https://www.ticketweb.com/event/after-hours-ladies-night-just-the-funny-tickets/9546105 For more info, check
- [LOL: Ladies Out Loud](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/lol-ladies-out-loud) - onight the men move over and the ladies take over! Just The Funny is proud to present a brand new show combining shortform improv, longform improv and musical improv starring the women of Just The Funny's award winning cast. Don't miss this very special all-female cast bringing you funny and fierce improv that you'll never
- [Compassion Project @ Coral Gables Museum](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/compassion-project-coral-gables-museum)
- [10 Days of Connection: Stories of Second Chances](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/community-lecture-series-stories-of-second-chances) - In recent years, people have become increasingly divided across lines of difference. Incidents of hate have increased, and tolerance for differing ideas has decreased. For ten days each year, we challenge the entire community to break down silos and engage in acts of connection, to build empathy, to increase understanding, and to refocus on our
- [LEAP Community Connection Book Discussion: Bad Feminist](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/leap-community-connection-book-discussion-bad-feminist) - Join us for LEAP Community Connection Book & Lecture Series, where we aim to delight, enlighten and educate. This month we will gather to discuss Bad Feminist by Roxane Gay. A collection of essays spanning politics, criticism, and feminism from one of the most-watched young cultural observers of her generation.
- [Being Black in Miami, Community Speaker Series](https://leapforladies.org/archives/event/being-black-in-miami-community-speaker-series) - Miami is the home of the 6th largest black community in the US. But what does that even mean? LEAP celebrates Black History Month Miami style with a lively discussion about what is means to be black in our multi-cultural community. Panelists Dr. Mitzi Carter, Cultural Anthropologist Elliott Jones, Community Organizer Leonie Hermantin, Esq., Attorney

## FAQs

- [How does the entrepreneurship program work?](https://leapforladies.org/archives/hrf_faq/how-does-the-entrepreneurship-program-work) - Entrepreneurship is taught along with basic employability and life skills. This in-depth program prepares incarcerated women for successful reentry by teaching essential life and employment skills, entrepreneurship, and trauma-informed addiction recovery. Corinne Webb, who serves as Program Director and Instructor for the entrepreneurship and workforce readiness aspect of our in-prison program, teaches during the five-month
- [How much does your program cost? What is your overhead like?](https://leapforladies.org/archives/hrf_faq/how-much-does-your-program-cost-what-is-your-overhead-like) - It costs $5,000 for one LEAPer to go through our program. Compare that to the high cost of imprisonment: It can cost the state over $28,000 per year to house and feed one prisoner. We are a financially lean organization with a high dependence on our volunteers and our partners. Ninety cents of every dollar donated goes
- [What is LEAP? Does the name stand for anything?](https://leapforladies.org/archives/hrf_faq/what-is-leap-does-the-name-stand-for-anything) - LEAP is a prison education program for women who will be released within 12-18 months. LEAP is a new lease on life – a way to help women who have been imprisoned to take a “leap” into a new, productive, social, happy life, outside of prison. LEAP originally stood for Ladies Empowerment and Action Program.
- [Does LEAP Work With the Florida Department of Corrections?](https://leapforladies.org/archives/hrf_faq/does-leap-work-with-the-florida-department-of-corrections) - LEAP is an independent 501(c)(3) and receives no state funding. However, LEAP is able to deliver our program pursuant to a Memorandum of Understanding with the Florida Department of Corrections, which allows us to select students at all of the major Florida women’s prisons. FDOC transfers selected students to Homestead Correctional Institute, where our program
- [How do you select LEAP participants?](https://leapforladies.org/archives/hrf_faq/how-do-you-select-leap-participants) - All women incarcerated at Lowell Correctional Institute, the Florida Women’s Reception Center and the Homestead Correctional Institute scheduled for release within a designated 6 month time frame are eligible to apply. Applicants complete a lengthy application and interview. LEAP only accepts women who demonstrate the willingness to change and to learn. They must also have
- [What types of crimes have been committed by LEAP participants?](https://leapforladies.org/archives/hrf_faq/what-types-of-crimes-have-been-committed-by-leap-participants) - All of the women in LEAP serve a minimum sentence of 24 months, and have served as long as 15-20 years. Crimes range from theft and drugs to homicide. We do not exclude anyone on the basis of the crime committed, and have found that the women with the most serious offenses are just as
- [Why does the LEAP board and staff focus on women in prison, as opposed to foster children or victims of intimate partner violence?](https://leapforladies.org/archives/hrf_faq/why-does-the-leap-board-and-staff-focus-on-women-in-prison-as-opposed-to-foster-children-or-victims-of-intimate-partner-violence) - A growing body of research, and our experiences since 2009, have made one thing crystal clear: Women in prison have lived through some of the toughest situations. They are often one and the same as women who survive intimate partner violence and the adults who have lived through foster care. While statistics on women in
- [How do you know your program is successful? Are women who graduate from LEAP ever re-arrested?](https://leapforladies.org/archives/hrf_faq/how-do-you-know-your-program-is-successful-are-women-who-graduate-from-leap-ever-re-arrested) - LEAPers – the graduates of our program – learn essential life and employment skills and are able to return to their communities and their families as productive people, who love themselves and who love life. Since our inception in 2009, the recidivism rate (the percentage who return to prison) for our graduates has ranged from

## Portfolios

- [LIFE-LONG COMMUNITY](https://leapforladies.org/archives/portfolio/life-long-community) - LEAP provides on-going advocacy and life-long community for inmates after they graduate to make sure they continue to get the support they need.
- [HOUSING & EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT](https://leapforladies.org/archives/portfolio/housing-employment-support) - When an inmate is released, LEAP helps them transition into stable housing and employment.
- [IN-PRISON EDUCATION](https://leapforladies.org/archives/portfolio/in-prison-education) - LEAP provides 300+ hours of holistic in-prison education and mentorship, employability and life skills classes as well as trauma informed substance abuse programming.

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://leapforladies.org/archives/category/uncategorized)
- [News](https://leapforladies.org/archives/category/news)
- [FAQS](https://leapforladies.org/archives/category/faqs)

## Tags

- [thrifting](https://leapforladies.org/archives/tag/thrifting)
- [dragonfly](https://leapforladies.org/archives/tag/dragonfly)