On April 25th, Operation New Hope proudly celebrated a major milestone, recognizing more than 100 individuals who have graduated from the Ready4Work program in St. Pete since the location opened in July 2024.
The celebration brought together community members, partners, and supporters to recognize the achievements of our clients and the transformative impact of second chances. We were honored to hear from Mayor Ken Welch, Site Manager Kelly Sims, and ONH President & CEO Reggie Fullwood, each sharing inspiring words about the importance of reentry services in building stronger communities.
Guests had the opportunity to witness a live Ready4Work graduation ceremony and tour our facility, experiencing firsthand how our program equips individuals with the skills, support, and opportunities needed to thrive after experiencing the barriers faced by returning citizens. Each week, a new cohort of clients begins their Ready4Work journey, participating in comprehensive training that covers job readiness, financial literacy, digital skills, and personal development.
In addition to classroom instruction, participants receive individualized case management, job coaching, mental health support, housing assistance, transportation resources, and connections to vital community services. These wraparound services are designed to eliminate barriers and help clients secure living-wage employment, empowering them to build stable futures for themselves and their families.
Mayor Ken Welch spoke passionately about the significance of the Ready4Work program’s impact in St. Petersburg, stating:
“Operation New Hope’s milestone of 100 folks graduating in less than a year is outstanding. The impact that you are making is real. One stat that I will quote is the recidivism rate — folks going back and making that mistake again — is just 9% in this program compared to 26% statewide. To the graduates, I want to congratulate you. We are here today to celebrate your success. You did not let circumstances define you or hold you back. Instead, you embraced the opportunity for transformation and for a better path forward. I want to let you know that this city is supportive of our entire community. When we say ‘We Are St. Pete,’ that means everyone. We look forward to expanding this program any way that we can support it.”
The success of our Ready4Work program in St. Pete would not be possible without the ongoing support from the City of St. Petersburg, local businesses, housing partners, and community organizations. We are especially grateful to Mt. Zion Progressive Missionary Baptist Church for providing space for this important event and for their continued partnership in advancing second chances in the St. Pete community.
Congratulations to all of our Ready4Work graduates! Your dedication and hard work inspire us every day.
While this milestone is cause for celebration, our work is just beginning. Operation New Hope remains committed to serving the thousands of individuals returning to the St. Petersburg community, helping to break the cycle of poverty and incarceration through meaningful opportunity.
Hearing from our graduates firsthand also made the celebration even more meaningful. Ready4Work graduate Dylan shared:
“To me, hope is the belief that I can achieve my goals. I’m extremely thankful for Operation New Hope, for all the staff, and all the teachers. This program has given me traction. I went from standing still, not having a lot of encouraging things happening, and this program has given me momentum, and I am very grateful for that. Thank you.”
