A job training program is setting some Bronx residents up for success.
The Hope Program provides its participants with training that will teach them to be more desirable candidates for full time job positions throughout the borough and beyond.
For Michael Thompson every work day is different.
"I could be hanging art, I could be landscaping, I could be inspecting buildings, building maintenance, I could be doing the park here,” says Michael Thompson, graduate of The Hope Program.
Thompson says he loves his new full time job as a facilitator for Bronx Pro Group.
"I knew immediately we were going to hire him because he had the attitude we were looking for. After getting to know what he did with The Hope Program and what his life experiences were we just knew he was a great fit for the park,” says Jennifer Anne, Bronx Pro Group.
Thompson landed the gig thanks to help from The Hope Program.
"My time in The Hope Program was exciting, it was learning, it was exhilarating, it was motivating," says Thompson.
Jennifer Mitchell, the executive director of The Hope Program says she hopes for more stories like Thompson’s.
"The Hope Program is a work force development program we have a 35-year track record of training and then placing people in employment and then supporting them for life,” says Mitchell.
Thompson tells News 12 in order for someone to help you, you have to help yourself first.
"I had a drug problem. I had issues and I went to seek treatment for myself,” says Thompson.
Taking that first brave step was his half way, and he says The Hope Program was there to meet him.
"Hope gave me a chance and I gave myself a chance. I'm connected with people that care and that are supportive of everyone anyone that's coming into the program,” says Thompson.