Recovery Friendly NC (RFNC) logo, emphasizing support for second-chance employment and vocational opportunities in North Carolina.
"FIRST at Blue Ridge logo featuring the words education, therapeutic life skills, aftercare, and technical vocational training, reflecting a comprehensive approach to recovery.

Vocational Training

Program Funding and Vocational Partnerships: FIRST at Blue Ridge is funded partially through partnerships with local employers, known as Vocational Training Partners, who offer job opportunities and hands-on experience to residents. These partnerships not only provide clients with practical skills and a positive work history but also sustain the program financially. FIRST is also supported by grants, foundations, and other funding opportunities that enable the program to grow and expand its services.   

FIRST at Blue Ridge proudly partners with Learning to Lead

Entry-Level Placements for Recovery-Friendly Employers

The Learning to Lead logo features an oval design that symbolizes growth, continuity, and forward movement. It reflects the organization’s mission to empower individuals through education, vocational training, mentorship, and skill-building opportunities.

Learning to Lead Learning-To-Lead LLC is dedicated to empowering individuals on their recovery journey by connecting them to meaningful work opportunities. We support recovery-based vocational training, offering skill development that fosters independence and a healthy, purposeful life. Our main partner, FIRST at Blue Ridge, provides licensed clinical care, housing, and essential resources to people overcoming substance use disorders, socioeconomic barriers, and justice involvement.FIRST at Blue Ridge sustains its programs through vocational training, and Learning-To-Lead bridges the gap by matching trainees with entry-level roles at companies open to second-chance employment. These roles range from machine operation to food service, helping candidates build essential job skills. Each trainee completes job-readiness training at the Goodwill Career Center, ensuring they’re prepared for success. FIRST at Blue Ridge’s team matches candidates to roles based on skill assessments, providing employers with confident, reliable hires.

Learning-To-Lead partners closely with FIRST at Blue Ridge and regional employers to build meaningful career pathways. Our employer partnerships range from large-scale manufacturers to local businesses, each helping individuals in recovery find valuable roles suited to their skills and ambitions. Some positions focus on technical skills, while others emphasize leadership and problem-solving, ultimately promoting accountability and independence.

Founded by Terry Houck, Jr., Learning-To-Lead has a foundation in second-chance career development and workforce solutions. From his early work connecting military veterans to roles at FIRST at Blue Ridge, Terry has since established vocational training programs that benefit both recovery centers and local businesses. Our work today with FIRST at Blue Ridge includes mentorship programs and job-readiness training, creating paths to steady employment and self-sufficiency.

Our success lies in our partnership with FIRST at Blue Ridge and our thoughtful approach to working with employers. This includes:

  • Customized support for individual employer needs
  • Comprehensive trainee orientation and onboarding assistance
  • A dedicated point of contact for all trainee placement and performance inquiries
  • Career coaching support in collaboration with certified professionals

 

FIRST at Blue Ridge offers ongoing resources like clinical sessions, group meetings, and affordable housing options for graduates, supporting their transition to independent living and full-time employment. This continued support gives our employer partners peace of mind, knowing that the recovery journey doesn’t end with program completion but is sustained through accessible resources and community support.

Learning-To-Lead is honored to be a designated Recovery Friendly Workplace and regularly collaborates with local organizations to promote recovery-based workforce inclusion. From workshops to speaking engagements, our founder and team actively engage in building awareness about the benefits of second-chance employment and vocational training.

 

Through strong partnerships, structured support, and a commitment to recovery-friendly practices, Learning-To-Lead helps individuals in recovery thrive and creates pathways for employers to welcome skilled, motivated, and dependable new hires.

The FIRST at Blue Ridge logo features a circular design often incorporating elements that reflect strength, growth, and recovery. It symbolizes the organization’s commitment to providing a supportive therapeutic community for individuals overcoming substance use disorders.

FIRST at Blue Ridge is a North Carolina-licensed, peer-led therapeutic community dedicated to assisting individuals with chronic substance use disorders. Their mission is to provide opportunities, guidance, and education to help individuals make positive life changes and become responsible, productive members of society.

Facebook-f
Contact Us:

32 Knox Rd. Ridgecrest, NC 28770

NC HMIS Privacy Notice

FIRST at Blue Ridge Inc. - A State of North Carolina Licensed Therapeutic Community - MHL #011-264 © 2024

error: Content is protected !!