Every day Fresh Start Worx trains and educates, teaches carpentry and construction skills to people that have been previously incarcerated, who have worked their way through the challenges and battles of addiction, are working their way out of homelessness and poverty and folks that are new to the United States and legally able to work.
These individuals face significant barriers: those previously incarcerated often encounter stigma and limited job opportunities; people overcoming addiction work to maintain stability while rebuilding their lives; those experiencing homelessness and poverty struggle with basic needs and financial insecurity; and newcomers to the U.S. face language and cultural challenges. Each requires support that goes beyond training to address these underlying obstacles.
At FSW, the Richard P. Garmany Fresh Start Academy provides hands-on training in construction, equipping participants with marketable skills and industry certifications. Our program offers mentorship, job placement support, and life skills coaching to help individuals overcome barriers such as stigma, financial instability, and cultural adjustment. By combining practical training with holistic support, we empower people to secure sustainable employment & build a foundation for long-term success.
Our programs will educate over forty people in 2025, with goals to expand annually. The program supports change by breaking cycles of incarceration, addiction, and poverty. Over time, this leads to stronger families, safer communities, and a more skilled workforce. For newcomers, it accelerates integration and economic contribution. The effect is generational-empowering individuals to become role models and community builders. Since inception FSW has celebrated over 120 graduates of the academy.
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