"A Second Chance at Life"

Childhood trauma led Andy down a path of substance use and incarceration. After his release from prison, he lost contact with his daughter, and experienced homelessness for four years.

Determined to make a change, Andy began his recovery journey in a residential treatment program, where he spent two and a half years. In early 2021, he was referred to Project Renewal’s Next Step workforce development program to help him secure a job.

Though the market was especially challenging due to COVID-19, Andy thrived in our virtual classes, developing his resume, honing his interview skills, and building job readiness.

With help from Next Step, he secured a role in maintenance at Project Renewal’s St. Nicholas House, and he has his sights set on becoming a substance use counselor. “Project Renewal gave me an opportunity when I really needed it,” he says, “And it was like a second chance at life.”

Job stability has given Andy the chance to reconnect with his daughter, who has been his north star. “I’m really proud because she is a great daughter,” he says. “She’s my motivation to keep going.”