Real change doesn’t happen after release — it starts long before. At Path to Freedom, we believe that healing is a human right, and true accountability means giving people the tools to break cycles of harm. I invite you to stand with us — not just for those who are incarcerated, but for every family, every child, and every community impacted by untreated trauma. Together, we can protect futures, rebuild lives, and write a new story — one that starts with hope.
Barbara Abernathy's journey to founding Path to Freedom Foundation was not born of theory, but of profound personal experience. Witnessing firsthand the gaps in mental health support, communication skills, and reintegration resources for a loved one navigating the justice system ignited a powerful conviction within her: the traditional approach to rehabilitation was falling short, often overlooking the very trauma that fuels cycles of reoffending.
Driven by a deep-seated belief in the potential for healing and true accountability, Barbara embarked on a mission to create real-world solutions. She envisioned a path where intervention began before release, addressing the root causes of harm through a trauma-informed lens that prioritizes emotional well-being and community restoration.
As the Founder & Executive Director of Path to Freedom Foundation, Barbara is the driving force behind the organization's innovative programs. She spearheaded the development of the flagship Connection Compass Toolkit, a groundbreaking resource designed specifically for incarcerated individuals to build essential trauma-informed communication and emotional regulation skills. Her leadership extends to forging strategic partnerships, meticulously designing programs, and tirelessly advocating for a system that emphasizes both compassion and accountability.
Barbara's passion lies in reaching individuals before their reentry into society, believing this early intervention is critical to reducing harm, preventing future victimization, and ultimately disrupting the devastating cycles of generational trauma.
"True accountability isn't about punishment; it's about providing the tools for healing and growth. Path to Freedom is committed to a trauma-informed approach that empowers individuals to break cycles of harm and build lives of purpose." - Barbara Abernathy, Founder & Executive Director, Path to Freedom Foundation.
