More Than a Program. A Movement.
What started with one man's life-changing experience has grown to thousands of life-changing experiences for hundreds of men and women in multiple states across the country. And we're just getting started.
About Us
Technology Transforming Lives
Persevere expands access to career pathways, ensuring all individuals have fair opportunities to succeed through comprehensive technology training, mental health support, and employer partnerships. Founded by Sean Hosman after his own experience with the justice system, we transform lives, strengthen families, and create thriving communities through meaningful opportunity.
Founded in 2014, Persevere began facility operations in January 2019 inside three West Tennessee correctional facilities. Since that first class, we have grown to serve 2,845 participants across 8 states — operating in 25 correctional facilities, 6 youth detention centers, community programs, and 2 recovery homes.
The Impact Is Real
- 2,845+
Participants served across 8 states
- ~1.7%
Recidivism rate
- 83.7%
Placement rate among graduates
- $18/hr
Entry-level starting wage
Meet Our Founder
Sean Hosman
Sean founded Persevere with a simple belief: everyone deserves a second chance. After witnessing firsthand how technology education could transform lives inside correctional facilities, he dedicated himself to building a program that provides real skills, real mentorship, and real opportunity for justice-involved individuals.
I started Persevere because I believe everyone deserves a second chance. Technology is the great equalizer — it doesn’t care about your past, only your potential. Our mission is to prove that with the right training, mentorship, and opportunity, anyone can build a meaningful career in tech.
2,845+
Lives Transformed
Across 8 states~1.7%
Recidivism Rate
vs 30-40% national average83.7%
Placement Rate
Among program graduates$18/hr
Entry-Level Wage
Immediate earnings on placement2,845+
Lives Transformed
Across 8 states~1.7%
Recidivism Rate
vs 30-40% national average83.7%
Placement Rate
Among program graduates$18/hr
Entry-Level Wage
Immediate earnings on placement
2025 Remarkable Woman of the Year
Nexstar Media Group
Stacey Books was named Nexstar's 2025 Remarkable Woman of the Year in recognition of her work transforming lives through technology education.
Built With Purpose
This website was designed and developed in-house by the Persevere team.
Megan Williams
Communications & Program Specialist / Marketing & Social Media Specialist / Web Developer
Indigo Collier
Employment Specialist / Marketing & Social Media Specialist / Web Developer