2021 COMBAT Mid-Year Funding: $118,264.00

in reStart, Inc.'s Own Words

Youth defined as at-risk of homelessness have an increased likelihood of experiencing violence and ,by definition and age, struggle to secure employment at the level that ensures stable housing.

reTreats is a project to move youth toward independence through dedicated workforce development.  The reTreats are artisanal, gourmet, organic dog treats that are produced, packaged and distributed by reStart youth. Youth in reStart’s Transitional Living and Maternity Group Home programs are eligible for the program.  

Youth are selected for the three-month paid internship following a formal application and interview process.  Once selected, youth participate in a 90-day internship that will provide skill development in production, marketing, sales, customer service, accounting and budgeting.

reTreats interns learn about key skills:

• inventory management, scheduling and managing financials;
  
  
• working in the kitchen to make reTreats, learning about kitchen management, developing culinary skills, and adhering to health department regulations;
  
  
• customer service – fulfilling orders from online purchases, distributing product to our local retail partners;
  
  
• marketing – through social media, tabling events, etc; and much more.  

Each program participant will have an internship plan that includes goal-setting, objective planning and  pre- and post- skills assessment as well as access to all of reStart, Inc.’s 17+ programs – including mental health programs and drug prevention classes - designed to promote stability and sustainability for life beyond reStar