First 72

Programs: During 2016, risingfoundations had the following major accomplishments:access to affordable housing - in partnership with next generation international/the first 72+ we provided free transitional housing to 24 people. We are also in the process of renovating a 6500 sq ft property to provide free transitional housing to 8 additional people bringing our capacity to 15 beds. Additionally, we completed necessary renovations (for health and safety) on the home of gregory bright, who was exonerated after nearly 30 years in prison. Workforce development program - we provide case management for formerly incarcerated people; we assist formerly incarcerated people with securing employment; we assist formerly incarcerated people with attaining licenses and certifications, with accessing tools and uniforms, with free reentry legal services to help them rejoin the workforce, with free financial services and assistance; and, we coordinate a small business incubator. We are renovating a 6500 sq ft house in central city to provide free transitional housing for 8 people, space for wrap around services, and space for small businesses that employ formerly incarcerated people. This project is also creating jobs for our clients. Thanks to a grant from the alliance institute, we also sub-granted to the jeremiah project. This organization is comprised of faith leaders from across the south east region who organize business leaders to address employment issues impacting formerly incarcerated people. Statistical info for services in 2016 is as follows: legal services: 83 people served; small business incubator: 13 clients served, 9 businesses served; financial services: 11 people served; connected to employment: 21 clients served.