Breaking the cycles of poverty

We aim to employ those who struggle most to break their own cycles of poverty, giving preference to those who have recently experienced homelessness, military veterans, and individuals who have been previously incarcerated.

Our Mission

We’re working to secure sustainable income for individuals transitioning from homelessness. Steady and sustainable income is the only permanent, reliable path out of homelessness.
And we help provide that sustainable income by helping local businesses succeed.

$22,500

Average Annualized Pay
Rate

1,000

Individuals currently
employed by us who
were previously homeless
or at-risk of
becoming homeless

$35 Million

is Annual Payroll anticipated
for 2018

Created by Greg Block, First Step is
on a mission to provide a path out of homelessness.

Key Management

Roger Peterson

CEO

Amelia Nickerson

VP of Development & Community Relations

Matt Miller

VP Business Development

Sheneva Harris

Operations Director – Staffing

Henrietta Thompson

Manager – Disability Services

Board of directors

Greg Block

Founder/Board Chair

Barbara Peters

Former ED First Step

Mick Cochran

Chairman Corp. Dept. / Dentons

Kevin Cook

Community Activist

Joe Guerra

CEO Turfstar

AJ Robinson

CEO Central Atlanta Progress

Aubrey Harrell

Partner KPMG

Adam Ross

Treasurer & Secretary / Hex Atlanta

Marilynn Winn

Staff Organizer 9to5

Steve Fireman

President ECDI

Derreck Kyongo

CEO Center for Human and Civil Rights

Anitra Walker

Director Mercy Care Services

Brian O. Goebel

Managing Director, Social Enterprise at Goizueta