Michelle Smart started Bags to Butterflies in an effort to offer resources to help better the lives of female ex-offenders, and women in general.
"We are encouraging women to reclaim her lives and we are encouraging women to let go of the past to live life to its fullest and to focus on her dreams," Smart said. "So, when the ladies come and they assemble the hand bags it’s a little like they are rebuilding their lives."
And while these women begin rebuilding their lives, Smart is hoping to also help them rebuild their confidence.
"And one of the things that we are looking to do is have the first ever job fair and empowerment expo where we will allow the women to have face to face meetings with potential employers and they will also have an opportunity to attend workshops how to dress for success and prepare for interviews," she said.