Second Chance Initiative

Second Chance Initiative: Roxboro Housing Authority/Fathers on the Move Inc. Partnership to Help Local Men Find Stability

Excerpt from The Courier-Times Roxboro, N.C., Sat., Dec. 22, 2018

Roxboro Housing Authority Executive Director Felts Lewis recognizes Person Co. has several men who are currently in unstable living conditions. The Housing Authority has partnered with a non-profit organization called Fathers on the Move, Inc. (FOTM) of Burlington, which serves as a support group organization to men who are recently out of jail and are starting over.

Over 20 participants are part of the Second Chance Initiative. A considerable number of men within the Housing Authority properties are living in housing units that are not on a lease or have chosen a lifestyle of not being a law-abiding citizen. To combat these problems, the Housing Authority allows Rev. Victor Glover, FOTM founder and leader, to counsel men on a weekly basis. FOTM is in the midst of a 12-week curriculum, covering topics such as the enhancement of self-esteem to job readiness (i.e. appearance, public speaking, etc.). The initiative provides over 20 participants much needed stability and a judgment-free zone. The Housing Authority offers participants jobs, job training and independent contracts within the needs of Housing Authority; adult education classes through a partnership with the local community college.

This initiative is part of the Section 3 Program, which is a U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requirement—spending federal dollars on low- and very-low income residents.

Fathers on the Move Founder and Leader Victor Glover, front right, counseling Second Chance Initiative participants.  Local men in need of jobs, job-readiness skills, motivation and inspiration attend a two-hour weekly group session at Weatherly Heights Community Center.