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.”
and we will probably launch Episode One with Shannon Monihan mid-next week. For now, if you get a moment follow this link to the “podcast interviews” section of my website to hear some interviews I’ve done:
“Delighted to have been David Dahl’s [aka Killer Dave]first guest on his podcast Against the Grain. David has always had my back on social media, during what has been a curious few years, here in Portland, Oregon. Political landscape aside, this conversation is centric around JOY.In our conversation, David and I discuss what it’s like to dream something up and actually bring it to fruition. We also touch on what it takes to pick yourself up, and maintain a positive attitude, after you’ve been knocked down. I’m always amazed at the inspiring people I have met in my career. I have had a long and robust one. I enjoy working and as Dave and I discuss, it’s important to not relying on others and there is satisfaction, in doing things on your own.You’ll find his, and my podcast Red Frog: Stop Listen Shoot on @talkcastpdx.” – Shannon Monihan
