The MAAFA Redemption Project is a faith-based initiative in West Garfield Park (Chicago), recruiting at-risk emerging adult men to invest in them with housing, employment, educational opportunities, and evidence-based wrap-around social services.

 

Lasting nine months, the project aims to create an oasis of opportunity for young men who need a second chance. The young men live on the campus of New Mount Pilgrim Church and Pilgrim Development Corporation, West Garfield Park community stakeholders. They also participate in two rigorous courses: Economics & Financial Literacy, and Identity & Purpose-Development.

 

Lastly, the young men work as construction-trades apprentices; rehabbing abandoned buildings on the Westside of Chicago, and working with experienced contractors to learn plumbing, electrical, drywall, and painting skills.