When Kanaya was released from a residential reentry program, GA helped him create a personalized career plan. GA paid his tuition to attend a local trucking school to train as a commercial truck driver, and Kanaya was hired to drive big rigs for a respected local company. Better yet, he paid it forward. Kanaya has advocated for applicants at his workplace who, like him, have benefitted from GA.

Doreen was struggling to maintain her independence while also trying to help her sibling overcome homelessness. Her introduction to GA’s Street Outreach Team marked the start of a compelling and fulfilling new chapter in her life. GA recognized Doreen’s strong background in finance and provided tools and resources for to her to pursue her passion. Doreen garnered increased interest from employers, and she quickly landed a full-time position as a financial analyst. In her new role working in the public sector, Doreen has been able to apply her financial expertise to meaningfully contribute to her community.

Shamariona Wheeler enrolled in GA’s ReWIND program and reached two key milestones: strengthening her relationship with her family and securing her first job. She shared: “…My mom never had the chance to finish school, so she always encouraged me to achieve what she couldn’t. She wanted me to have more opportunities, and I’m proud to make that a reality…” Although they clashed at first, Shamariona and her mother now engage in open and respectful two-way communication. Shamariona earned her high school diploma and has been accepted to Miami Dade College, where she plans to pursue a culinary arts degree.

After returning home from incarceration, Dwayne wasted no time taking control of his future. He enrolled in a workforce development program at GA and began working with a case manager to map out his goals. Motivated and focused, Dwayne and his case manager created a customized plan to help him reintegrate into the workforce and gain the skills needed to succeed. In just a few months, he secured full-time employment in South Florida, putting his training to use and thriving in his new role.

Andy was desperately searching for housing upon his first interaction with staff at GA’s RENEW Broward.  He had not been having much success. Staff gave him some information on where to search for free housing and apartments, and even prayed with him. Within a month he secured a new apartment. He was very appreciative to staff for the assistance and prayers and stated that it was a great start to his relationship with staff and building trust.

Jermarion faced unimaginable hardship when his house burned down, leaving him and his mother without a home. Not sure where else to turn, he reached out to GA’s REWIND program for support. The devastating loss could have derailed his future, but Jermarion’s determination and GA’s resources set the stage for an inspiring transformation. GA provided Jermarion with essential supplies and assistance to navigate the immediate aftermath of the fire. GA’s Job Developer worked closely with him to secure a new opportunity as a package handler at FedEx, where he now earns a significant pay hike over his previous job.

Twenty-one-year-old Sabrina enrolled in Project RENEW Dade determined to change the narrative of her personal story. She refused to allow past mistakes dictate her future. Project RENEW provided a safety net and backbone for her to complete the requirements to becoming a Phlebotomist. Being in constant contact with her GA Case Manager, she attained Phlebotomist certification and got a job at North Shore Medical Center. Today Sabrina is an essential worker who is contributing to her community.

Gang Alternative has been a big part in my recent success. I have people there trying to help me better my life. They helped me get into school and become a Certified HVAC Technician and helped me build a strong resumè that I actually used to help me get a job. They’re all serious about their work and I’m thankful to have them helping me.

I was referred to EFFECT by my Case Worker at SunServ. At the time, I was homeless, I did not have my High School diploma, and was having difficulty finding a job. After meeting with EFFECT’s staff, they introduced me to Project RENEW Broward and I was enrolled in both programs. Since joining EFFECT and RENEW, I’ve earned my certificate of completion in basic construction, OHSA 10, and CPR and First Aid. I now have stable housing, I am working toward my GED and I have a more positive outlook on life and what I can accomplish. They were also able to help me with transportation and food assistance. Gang Alternative, Inc. has been supportive and I am very grateful for the services.