One Year Later: Honoring the Legacy of Herb Hoelter

May 2, 2025, marks one year since the passing of Herbert J. Hoelter—our beloved co-founder, a visionary leader, and the heart behind NCIA’s mission. While we deeply miss his presence, we find comfort, strength, and inspiration in the enduring legacy he left behind.

Herb didn’t just help build NCIA—he built a culture. From the beginning, he imagined a place rooted in dignity, respect, and opportunity for all, especially for those whom society too often overlooks. He believed that “no one should be defined by their worst mistake” and that compassion could be the most powerful path to change.

That belief still shapes every program, every classroom, and every second chance offered here today.

“Everyone deserves a second chance to be successful.” – Herb Hoelter

Herb was more than a founder—he was family. He made time for people. He checked in. He lent a hand quietly, often helping employees and families through challenging moments, and he advocated boldly for systemic change. His presence uplifted the people around him, and his spirit continues to do so today.

In the past year, we’ve honored Herb in many ways—from memorial events to community proclamations, from graduation tributes to the establishment of the Herbert J. Hoelter Memorial Fund. But perhaps the greatest tribute is the work happening every day at NCIA. Whether in vocational training, youth education, community living, or second chance reentry programs, Herb’s vision is alive in the lives we touch.

As we look ahead, we carry forward the values Herb lived by:

Kindness. Equity. Advocacy. Unshakable belief in human potential.

These aren’t just words—they’re the blueprint for how we lead, how we serve, and how we continue to grow.

Herb Hoelter’s legacy is in motion—because of you, because of us, and because the world still needs the hope he inspire.