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
$18 Million
Anticipated annual
payroll for 2016
Created by Greg Block, First Step is
on a mission to provide a path out of homelessness.
Key Management
Dave Shaffer
CEO
Jamie Wilson
General Manager
Elyse Knox
Director – Community Outreach
Henrietta Thompson
Manager – Benefits Services
Board of directors
Barbara Peters
Former ED First Step
Mick Cochran
Chairman Corp. Dept. / Dentons
Andrea Falls
CEO Popular Genius
Kevin Cook
Community Activist
Joe Guerra
CEO Turfstar
AJ Robinson
CEO Central Atlanta Progress
Adam Ross
Treasurer & Secretary / Hex Atlanta
Aubrey Harrell
Partner KPMG
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
Learn More
Want to learn more about our social enterprise and mission success? Click here to get in touch.