January 2024 Newsletter

Leaps and Bounds: 2023 Year In Review

Trainees and Impact

We started the year with a group of trainees and saw changes each month:

• A majority of trainees progressed from beginner to learner or skilled status
• 4 Trainees graduated High School
• 1 Trainee became a father
• 6 Trainees graduated into full time employment
• 28 Trainees total throughout the year
• 1 House purchased by a former trainee

Training



Our commitment to training continued with various initiatives:

• Bi-weekly Lunch & Learn series
• Testimonies and gospel messages shared multiple times
• Life stories and insights from business leaders, staff, and board members
• New trainee orientation, safety training, and construction site introduction
• Driver's education program with support for obtaining licenses
• Exposure to various construction skills such as carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and more

Staff

Leadership: Tom Heffner (President), Ben Trost (VP Operations)

Site Supervisors: Markell Wyche, Ludwig Nelson, Reno Johnson,

Student Mentor: Amir Melke

Communication and Social Media: Joel Tobler

Board Members: Steve Wathen (Chairman), Suzanne Amstutz, Bob Apel, Adrian Frederick, Francis Fleming-Wansley, Tom Feusse, Michael Reidelbach, and Todd Alexander

Construction

Significant progress was made in our construction projects:

• Completed the renovation of 34-36 Dana Ave, sold to the Wyche family in August
• Hosted an open house for the community and supporters
• Began construction on two duplexes at 89 and 93 Chicago Ave
• Received a grant from the City of Columbus to help cover construction costs
• Collaborated with the Near East Side Planning Commission for the sale of lots on Kelton Ave for future building projects

Summary

In 2023, our collective efforts towards breaking the cycle of poverty through education, mentorship, and construction projects have made a meaningful impact on the lives of our trainees and the community we serve. We look forward to continued growth and success in 2024, as we remain dedicated to our mission and vision.

Franklinton Rising

​4653 Trueman Blvd #100,

Hilliard, OH 43026, USA

Phone: (614) 581-4125

Email: theffner@franklintonrising.org

Franklinton Rising's success has only been achieved with the generosity of our donors, volunteers, and the many businesses that support us with construction supplies, expert knowledge and a genuine desire to make a difference. Please accept our sincere thanks for all you do for the program. It is truly a ministry of service!