One of the most impactful moments each class experiences is when our guys create their self-declaration statement. We walk them through the many judgments that others have made about them—many of those negative—and helps each man see their true value and envision a new “name” for themselves. Watch as our guys make a statement about who they are now.
When I first heard about 4:13 Strong I was in a bad situation staying in a homeless shelter. I had just lost one job and on the way to losing the next one. I knew I needed to do something and I needed a lot of help. After the first day of Mental Toughness Week, I knew this was where I needed to be. I saw other men so I knew I wasn’t alone.
At the end of the 40 Day Challenge, it felt good knowing job partners were interested in me and believed in me. I signed with John Bouchard and Sons….and can see myself at this company for a long time. I went from not knowing what I wanted to do, and in a bad situation, to having a job and money.
I was facing an 8 year prison sentence and my attorney was able to get me a tryout at 4:13 Strong. I talked with Gerry (Recruitment Coordinator) and Joe (Case Manager) and they reeled me in. After Day 1 of Mental Toughness Week things clicked. I like keeping to myself, but over the 40 Days we became a brotherhood. Classes were fast-paced and it kept me on track. I learned a lot from the Bible Study. Even though I grew up in church, 4:13 Strong helped it make sense to me. My job has been great. I keep learning that I can do more than I thought I could.
Now I am in working mode and I’m ready for the world. I have always known that family is first, but since being at 4:13 Strong I have become a better father. Every chance I get I go see my son. 4:13 Strong is a great program—the discipline and structure. If you are on the wrong path, it can turn your life around.
4:13 Strong has helped me become a better man. I have learned how to have a career, how to invest my energy, and it has given me a chance to reconnect with my family.
Having NCCER and OSHA certificates makes me feel good about myself and has helped me do things I never imagined for myself. My kids love the program, my wife loves it, and my family loves it. 4:13 Strong and my family have helped me stay off the streets and away from drugs. They are all proud of me and I thank 4:13 Strong for this.
