Glenn Warren is a graduate of the A Philip Randolph Institute’s (APRI) Breaking the Chains of Poverty Building and Construction Trades, Manufacturing, and Emerging Energy Sector Program, class 39. He was formerly incarcerated and had other barriers that prevented him from obtaining employment that would allow him to have economic freedom but would also lead to a life-sustaining career. Glenn was referred to APRI by Harry Freiling, from Phase 4, one of our community partners. He was told APRI was a great organization that could help provide him with the chance for life-changing opportunities. Glenn says joining the program gave him an opportunity for better jobs, and he was able to earn certifications that make him more employable in the industry. Most importantly he was introduced to people through this program that helped him with life goals, in general, to guide him on the path to success. Glenn is currently working in manufacturing at TMS International, the leading provider of on-site, scrap metal industrial steel mill services for steelmakers around the world. Not just a job but a career.

A Wilkinsburg native and East Allegheny High School graduate. He had background issues that were barriers to work. Breaking the Chains of Poverty provided Terrance with training in family-sustaining careers that focused on his present, not his past. Terrance credits the program with reinforcing in him determination, commitment, and effort. He graduated from the program in June of 2017 with his work skills refreshed. Terrance is now employed with the Allegheny County Department of Public Works.

Heather grew up in Morgantown, WV, and moved to Pittsburgh in 1999. Heather entered Breaking the Chains of Poverty unsure about her future. The program gave her a better perspective on her career goals, and she felt the curriculum taught empowered her, affirming that her original career choice suited her. BTCP mentoring and leadership reinforced her passion for the legal field. After graduation from Breaking the Chains of Poverty in 2015, Heather continued her career as a paralegal in Pittsburgh.

He credits Breaking the Chains of Poverty with sharpening his diligence and drive to succeed in a family-sustaining career. Kemper came to the program with a college education and strong work experience; however, life choices complicated his ability to maintain employment. He shares that the program's high standards of accountability enhanced his work performance and job skills leading him to earning an apprenticeship at the International Brotherhood of Carpenters Union.

Charlene Jones completed her GED at Pittsburgh Connelly Trade School. A resident of public housing, Charlene credits Pittsburgh APRI for “giving me my life back.” Initially she did not meet the BTCP program entry requirements, so she utilized the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh’s (HCAP) internal program, built her skill sets and then reapplied to the BTCP program and was accepted. She was one of our most committed participants - always willing to take the extra step to learn and build her skills.