Behind every story is a client who refused to give up. These highlights are a tribute to their courage and unbreakable spirit.
L. Gregory’ Story
L. Gregory joined FBF in August of 2023 and quickly made an impact, demonstrating incredible resilience and determination. Despite an unexpected accident that required him
to take some time off, he overcame life’s challenges and returned to FBF with renewed focus and energy.
During his time in program, he played a key role as the designated delivery driver for the after-school program FBF collaborates with, ensuring that meals were delivered daily to the participants. His dedication and reliability made him an indispensable member of the team.
In addition to successfully graduating from FBF, he also completed an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), where he worked for several months. His commitment to his sobriety and personal growth has been truly inspiring.
L. Gregory is now thriving in his new role, building a successful career with exciting opportunities for advancement.
J. Chavez’s Story
J. Chavez began his journey with us in December 2024, stepping in with a clear goal to rebuild his life for himself and his family. Since then, he’s shown steady commitment—traveling on the rail runner to attend programming, staying engaged, and doing the work even when it’s hard.
Reuniting with his children has been one of his proudest achievements. Along the way, he has taken meaningful steps to care for himself, including attending therapy, going to the dentist, and learning to express his needs and ask for help—something that hasn’t always come easy.
J. Chavez’s growth is a reflection of his dedication and willingness to keep showing up. His journey is still unfolding, but the progress he’s made speaks volumes.
E. Smith’s Story
Before connecting with Fathers Building Futures, E. Smith was trapped in a 12-year addiction, dealing with homelessness and cycling in and out of jail. He reached a point where the grip of his addiction led him to the streets, distancing him from the people who loved him most. His final arrest landed him in jail and ultimately led him to Fathers Building Futures. That’s where everything began to change.
While still incarcerated, he joined the Fathers Building Futures program in September 2022. He committed himself fully, determined not just to start a new chapter but to write a whole new book. With FBF’s support and guidance, he gained the skills and tools to become a better father, maintain sobriety, and work on becoming a stronger employee and a more grounded man.
E. Smith has stayed focused on his goals. He fulfilled his probation requirements, graduated from drug court, and has maintained steady employment for nearly two years. Now a supervisor and over two and a half years sober, he is living proof that lasting change is possible. Fathers Building Futures gave him the foundation, and he chose to build a better life.
L. Mazon's Story
L. Mazon joined FBF in July 2023, stepping into the program with hope and determination. Not long after, life threw some unexpected challenges his way, prompting him to take a step back and focus on his well-being. But true to his resilient spirit, he returned with renewed purpose and an unwavering commitment to his growth.
During his time at FBF, he discovered a powerful new passion in the woodshop. There, he uncovered a natural talent for woodworking, creating stunning wooden crosses and infusing each piece with creativity, care, and meaning.
One of his greatest personal goals—sobriety—was not only achieved but surpassed. With over a year and a half of sobriety, he has remained steadfast, refusing to let anything derail his journey.
L. Mazon’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance. He reminds us that it’s not about what life puts in our path—it’s about how we choose to rise, rebuild, and move forward with purpose.
