Emerge Recovery & Trade Initiative stands as a beacon of hope within the communities it serves, driven by a vision of rejuvenated optimism, restored livelihoods, and enduring societal change. The organization is dedicated to empowering individuals on the path to recovery from addiction and former foster youth, guiding them toward a brighter future through transformative vocational pathways. Founded in June 2021 by three successful entrepreneurs deeply rooted in the skilled trades, Emerge was born out of a recognition of the pressing need to support those battling addiction and former foster youth in leading fulfilling and productive lives, while also addressing the growing workforce shortage in the skilled trades sector.
The genesis of Emerge took shape when Chris Adams (Narrow Path Plumbing), Kip Morris (Five Star Heating & Cooling), and Doug Van Dyke (Van Martin Roofing) seized the opportunity to acquire the former Greene County Career Center in Xenia, OH, slated for auction in March 2021. This acquisition served as the cornerstone for Emerge's mission, providing a physical space to expand its innovative second-chance employer model and offer comprehensive services tailored to individuals in recovery and former foster youth. With each founder intimately familiar with the challenges of addiction and the significance of second chances, Emerge embodies the ethos of 'paying it forward' and transforming adversity into opportunities for others.
At the heart of the Emerge Recovery & Trade Initiative campus lies a holistic ecosystem designed to facilitate every aspect of recovery and reintegration. Spanning 45 acres with 240,000 square feet of mixed-use space, the campus serves as a centralized hub for a myriad of services, including recovery housing, counseling, vocational education and training, mentorship, and career opportunities. By consolidating these resources under one roof, Emerge ensures seamless access to support systems vital for individuals navigating the journey toward sustained recovery and meaningful employment.
Since its inception, Emerge has made significant strides in actualizing its mission. Phase One renovations of the men's recovery housing space were completed in June 2023, marking the launch of the Men's Recovery Housing program. With the support of community contributions and the founders' investment exceeding $1.85 million, the program has provided sanctuary and support to over 100 men from 14 counties in Ohio. Looking ahead, Emerge is committed to expanding its services to include housing solutions for women in recovery and former foster youth, further cementing its role as a catalyst for positive transformation and social equity within the skilled trades.
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