Grace, Grit & Growth: One Man’s Journey to Transform Reentry in America

Kurtis TaylorExecutive DirectorBob Barker Foundation (North Carolina)Kurtis Taylor is a person in long-term recovery. For him, this means that he has not used alcohol or any other substance since December 23rd, 2002. Mr. Taylor obtained his bachelor’s degree in social work from Shaw University in May 2019.For many years, Kurtis has been a voice for citizens seeking long-term recovery from substance use disorders. He was an appointed member of Governor Pat McCrory’s Task Force on Mental Health & Substance Use Disorder. He has served multiple terms as Chairperson for the NC Substance Use Disorder Federation and as a member of the NC Departmental Waiver Advisory Committee (DWAC). He is also a member of the board of directors for the i2i Center for Integrative Health and a board member for the Emerald School of Excellence – the first Recovery High School in North Carolina.Mr. Taylor serves as the executive director of the Bob Barker Foundation, where he is committed to helping reduce recidivism rates nationwide. Under his leadership, the Foundation is committed to the elimination of stigma attached to the subject of reentry & justice-involvement. Mr. Taylor is an extremely vocal advocate for all citizens faced with the challenges that accompany reentering society after incarceration, and he is proud to serve in this capacity.The Bob Barker Foundation was established in May 2009 and now grants more than $1,000,000 annually to deserving programs that reduce recidivism. The mission is to develop and support programs that help incarcerated individuals successfully reenter society and stay out for life.LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurtis-taylor-296586169/Company Website: https://www.bobbarkerfoundation.org/about