Meet Olivia Hanson, a dedicated instructor at Operation New Hope’s Space Coast office, where people returning from incarceration receive the support they need to achieve stability and success. Operation New Hope is a nonprofit organization that helps individuals transform their lives through the nationally-recognized Ready4Work program. This three-week learning experience provides job readiness training, technology skills, direct connections to employment opportunities, and other free services.
As a Career Development Instructor, Olivia leads classroom instruction focused on building essential skills for today’s job market, including resume writing, professional communication, and digital literacy. With a background in administrative and intake work and a personal connection to the challenges of reentry, Olivia brings both compassion and practical experience to the classroom. She plays a vital role in helping participants gain confidence, develop critical skills, and prepare for new opportunities as they navigate life after incarceration.
For Olivia, this work is deeply personal. Several of her family members have been impacted by the justice system, including one relative whose journey from incarceration to becoming a successful business owner serves as a powerful example of resilience. His story, along with the support he provided Olivia during her early adulthood, inspired her to become part of the solution for others trying to rebuild their lives.
“My father’s story had a profound impact on me,” Olivia shared. “When he returned home from Operation Desert Storm, he had nowhere to go and ended up living in his car before also becoming justice involved. Watching him rebuild taught me how crucial support and opportunity really are.”
Since joining ONH at the start of 2024, Olivia has brought years of experience working with underserved populations, along with a background in data analytics and volunteer service, to the Space Coast team. “Transitioning into reentry services felt like a natural progression,” she explained. “I wanted to continue doing meaningful work that directly impacts those who need support the most.” She was especially drawn to Operation New Hope’s mission, adding, “I was thrilled to discover that programs like this exist to support individuals who may not have the resources or knowledge to take those first crucial steps forward.”
In her first role at Operation New Hope, Olivia served as an Intake Specialist, helping potential clients review eligibility requirements and enroll in the Ready4Work program, while also building partnerships with local organizations across Brevard County. She recently transitioned to the Career Development team, a role that aligns with both her professional strengths and her passion for supporting formerly incarcerated individuals through education and encouragement.
The Ready4Work program is designed to remove the barriers that often prevent people returning from incarceration from achieving stability. Through a holistic blend of job training, life skills, transitional housing, and support services, clients are equipped to step confidently into the workforce and rebuild their lives.
Each lesson is hands-on and practical. Olivia often incorporates videos and activities to help clients feel more comfortable applying what they have learned, especially those who may have never used a computer before.
“We meet a wide range of experience levels,” Olivia explained. “But we always help clients recognize how they already use technology in everyday life, especially on their phones. From there, we guide them in using those tools for professional and personal growth.”
Beyond hard skills, Ready4Work also focuses on soft skills like accountability, punctuality, communication, and confidence, which are qualities that are critical to succeeding in any work environment.
Olivia’s days are filled with both structure and flexibility, allowing her to adapt her teaching to the unique needs of each class. She spends time preparing materials, leading interactive lessons, and offering individual support to clients who need extra help. She also celebrates the small victories, whether it is someone arriving on time, successfully logging into email for the first time, or completing a resume they are proud of.
“I strive to encourage clients every day by acknowledging both their big and small achievements,” she said. “Even something like showing up on time demonstrates reliability, an essential workforce skill. I make sure to point that out and help them build confidence with each step.”
Reentry is a crucial part of building stronger, safer communities. For many individuals returning home after incarceration, resources, guidance, and basic support have long been absent. Programs like Ready4Work fill that gap by offering not only practical tools but also hope.
“Reentry plays a vital role in the fabric of our society,” Olivia shared. “Many of our clients want to change, but they have never had access to the knowledge, tools, or support they need. Our job is to be that support system, offering judgment-free support and focusing on progress.”
She emphasizes that instructors, case managers, and job coaches all work together to help clients gain confidence, overcome barriers, and reach meaningful employment. More than anything, she hopes clients leave her class knowing they are not alone.
“There are people here who truly want to see you succeed,” she said. “If you are willing to put in the effort, we will meet you with the support and acceptance you need to keep moving forward. Your past does not have to define your future.”
One of the most rewarding moments for Olivia came when a client who had struggled with technology began to flourish in her class. He proudly shared his progress with his family, and his confidence grew with every new skill he mastered.
“Hearing how excited he was, and knowing he shared it with loved ones, made me realize how powerful this work really is,” Olivia said. “It reminded me that we’re not just teaching skills—we’re restoring belief in what’s possible. It’s a privilege to walk alongside our clients as they begin to believe in themselves again.”
If you believe in the power of opportunity and want to support the work of Operation New Hope and dedicated professionals like Olivia, consider getting involved! By donating, partnering, or sharing our mission, you can help open doors to employment and stability for individuals returning to our communities.
