Our Mission | Skills up trades and mentorship

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Empowering Through Mission

We are dedicated to empower incarcerated individuals and those re-entering society by providing access to valuable trade skills and mentorship opportunities. Skills Up aims to reduce recidivism and foster self-sufficiency through practical, community-driven education and support.

Empower individuals with the skills, certifications, and mentorship needed to excel in the trades industry. Through culturally responsive programs, personalized case management, and access to transformative resources, we are committed to fostering successful transitions back into the community and building brighter futures for our participants."

Having witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by individuals trying to rebuild their lives after incarceration, I understand the immense obstacles they encounter. Transition is a difficult one, individuals reintegrating into society after incarceration face a multitude of challenges, including:

Stigma and Discrimination: Ex-offenders often carry the label of "criminal," leading to discrimination in employment, housing, and social interactions. This stigma can make it difficult to rebuild relationships and find acceptance within the community.
Employment Barriers: Many employers are hesitant to hire individuals with criminal records, limiting employment opportunities. This can create financial instability, making it difficult to secure housing and meet basic needs.
Housing Instability: Finding stable housing can be challenging due to landlords' reluctance to rent to ex-offenders and housing affordability issues. This can lead to homelessness or living in unstable situations, further hindering reintegration.
Mental Health Challenges: Incarceration can exacerbate existing mental health conditions or lead to new ones, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Access to mental health treatment upon release is often limited, making it difficult to manage these conditions and maintain stability.
Substance Abuse: Many individuals in prison struggle with substance abuse issues. Reintegration can be difficult without access to treatment and support services to address these challenges.
Lack of Social Support: Reintegration can be isolating, as many individuals may have lost contact with family and friends during incarceration. Building new social connections and support networks can be challenging.
Legal and Bureaucratic Hurdles: Ex-offenders may face legal restrictions, such as parole conditions or restrictions on travel or association. Navigating these legal requirements can be complex and add to the burden of reintegration.

We believe that providing these individuals with the necessary resources and support is crucial for their successful reintegration and for creating a safer, more just society for all.

Our mission is founded on our core values

Our vision

Why we do what we do?

A future where formerly incarcerated individuals thrive as skilled professionals, contributing to a more inclusive, resilient workforce and uplifting Black, Indigenous, and other marginalized communities.

Our team

The Skills Up Trades mentorship team is a dedicated group of industry professionals committed to empowering the next generation of skilled workers. With expertise spanning various trades, including construction, electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, and more, our mentors bring years of hands-on experience and real-world knowledge to guide aspiring tradespeople toward success.

Our team is passionate about bridging the gap between education and practical application, ensuring that mentees not only learn essential technical skills but also develop the confidence, discipline, and business acumen needed to excel in their careers. Through one-on-one mentorship, hands-on training, and career guidance, we provide a supportive environment where individuals can refine their craft, build valuable connections, and gain the experience necessary to thrive in the skilled trades industry.

At Skills Up Trades, we believe that mentorship is the key to shaping a skilled, motivated, and highly capable workforce. Our team is here to inspire, educate, and support every step of the journey—helping individuals turn their passion into a lifelong profession.