One that helps African-American men who are released from prison to find resources to reintegrate into society. I donated a lot of African art to decorate their new location and I think a lot of folks will dig it.
Most people have never seen this kind of art, so it will be interesting to see the response.
This article gives great info about this meaningful program.
Willie Fiers, a Flip the Script alumnus, calls the parole system “an invisible program” contributing to keeping formerly incarcerated people down. (Photo by Brian Oaster)
“A native of Jamaica, love brought Veral to the United States. He and his now-wife met when she was on a trip to Jamaica.
After moving to Portland, Veral was looking for employment when his wife introduced him to her friend Pat Daniels. Veral had been doing similar work in Jamaica and thought that Constructing Hope was the perfect opportunity to get his foot in the door and set himself up for a true career to support their blended family.
Veral excelled in the pre-apprenticeship training program, graduating Tier 1. During the class he found a passion for carpentry work. Upon graduation he was accepted into the Northwest Carpenters Union Apprenticeship and began work at Hoffman Construction.
Eight years later, Veral has completed his apprenticeship and is a Journeyman Carpenter. He is still working at Hoffman Construction, currently on the Portland International Airport project. He isn’t done yet though – Veral has a goal of continuing to advance into leadership. Constructing Hope has been by his side, helping to navigate each step along the way.
Veral shared recently that a good start helps to determine the finish, and he considers himself a product of that, thanks to Constructing Hope.”
